Arthritis literally means "inflammation of the joints." There are many different types of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis which is a wear-and-tear degeneration. Ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis are both autoimmune inflammatory conditions that cause joint destruction and inflammation. There are no real cures for arthritis, but in many cases there are treatments that may be helpful in slowing or stopping the progression. General symptoms of arthritis include pain, numbness and tingling, joint swelling and joint stiffness.
Joint Stiffness
One of the main symptoms and complications of arthritis is joint stiffness. The limitations in motion can arise from pain and inflammation or from actual joint destruction. In the case of osteoarthritis, bone spurs may grow on the edge of normal bone. These bone spurs are smooth projections that can limit motion and cause nerve compression and pain. Rheumatoid arthritis affects the synovial lining of the joints and leads to joint destruction and loss of range of motion, according to MayoClinic.com.
Decreased Activity
An often overlooked complication of all forms of arthritis is the effect that pain and stiffness have on physical activity. Individuals suffering from the effects of rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis may find it difficult to engage in physical activity because of increased pain and stiffness. The Surgeon General's Report on Physical Activity and Health, found that individuals with osteoarthritis need to engage in physical activity to maintain normal muscle strength, joint structure and joint function. It further found that physical activity did not increase joint destruction.
Lost Work
According to HealthCentral.com, a 2000 study found that about one-third of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis stopped working within five years of the onset of disease. This is a huge financial burden and detriment to the individual and to society in general. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, arthritis is a major cause of lost work.
Other Complications
Various forms of arthritis can take a toll on many different parts of the body separate from the joints. Peripheral neuropathy is a common complication of osteoarthritis that causes numbness and tingling, muscle weakness and muscle wasting. Other possible complications or effects of living with arthritis may include heart disease, lung disease, osteoporosis, anemia and skin problems, according to HealthCentral.com. Some of these conditions may be caused by inactivity and others may be due to the disease process itself.
