Welcome to this week’s quick health capsule:

Joint Inflammation

Inflammation is one of the body's natural reactions to disease or injury, and includes swelling, pain and stiffness.
Arthritis involves inflammation of one or more joints and the breakdown of cartilage. Cartilage normally protects the joint, allowing for smooth movement. Cartilage also absorbs shock when pressure is placed on the joint, like when you walk or otherwise bear weight. Without the usual amount of cartilage, the bones rub together, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness.                More»

      Symptoms

• Pain
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Tenderness
• Redness
• Warmth
  

      Causes

• Age
• Obesity
• Work Factors
• Gender
• Broken Bone
• Infection
         More»

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to provide pain relief and increase joint mobility and strength. Treatment options include medication, exercise, heat/cold compresses, use of joint protection and surgery. It also depends on the particular cause, which joints are affected, severity, and how the condition affects your daily activities.