Arthritis is marked by inflammation of the joints. In general, arthritis is caused by the destruction of the cartilage that protects and cushions the joints in the body. This causes bones to grind against each other, which leads to pain and inflammation. Patients with severe arthritis have a number of treatment options at their disposal.
Types
The American Occupational Therapy Association notes two main types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis, which is the most common form of arthritis, is caused by wear and tear on the joints over time. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is caused by the immune system attacking the cartilage and other tissues in the joint, destroying the protective lining that keeps the bones from rubbing against each other. Distinguishing between the two is important because treatment of these conditions can vary.
Rheumatoid-Specific Relief
Some treatments for severe arthritis are effective only for rheumatoid arthritis. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, which are also known as DMARDs, help prevent the inflammation responsible for the tissue damage caused by rheumatoid arthritis, notes the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases. Examples of these drugs include hydroxychloroquine, methotrexate, sulfasalazine and leflunomide. Biologic therapies may also be used along with DMARDs. These drugs help block the signals that lead to dangerous inflammatory responses. These drugs include abatacept and infliximab.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids, potent blockers of the immune system, can be used to treat severe arthritis. These drugs, which include prednisone and hydrocortisone, can be injected directly into the affected joints in the case of severe arthritis. Injecting the medications maximizes benefits and minimizes side effects. Corticosteroids have to be used with care because, as the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases explains, they can cause weight gain, swelling, thinning of the skin, and changes in emotional state.
Exercise
Although physical activity can be difficult for patients with severe arthritis, it is important for patients to stay active. Regular exercise can help keep the muscles around the joint strong, which helps keep the arthritis from getting worse. All patients should check with their doctors about restrictions on physical activity, but, in general, being active helps keep arthritis from getting worse.
Surgery
Patients who find that arthritis pain makes it difficult to sleep or perform daily activities may require surgery to treat their arthritis, the Arthritis Foundation explains. Surgery may also be necessary for patients who cannot control their pain through medications or who find themselves avoiding normal activities due to their severe arthritis. Surgery for patients with severe arthritis often involves the replacing of the affected joint with an artificial joint. Although these joints may need to be replaced periodically, they can be very effective in treating patients with severe arthritis and can provide pain relief.
