If you've been diagnosed with arthritis, you may hear new medical terms you don't understand. Here's a guide to understanding their meanings.
Osteoarthritis. The most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis is regarded as a degenerative disease. It usually affects older people and is caused by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints of the body.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Another common form of arthritis affecting adults and children, this is an autoimmune disease, where the body's immune system turns against itself. Symptoms include swelling, stiffness, pain and inflammation of the joints.
Chronic illness. Different from an acute illness that only affects you for a short time, a chronic illness is one that lasts for many years. Chronic illnesses often last for a lifetime. Chronic illnesses are typically incurable, but the symptoms are treatable.
NSAIDs. These are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that are used to decrease pain and inflammation. They are available as over-the-counter and prescription medications.
TENS. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation is a form of therapy used to relieve pain. Electrodes are placed on the affected area, and an electromagnetic current is delivered to the nerve fibres. NMES or neuromuscular electrical stimulation is another option; this stimulates and strengthen muscles surrounding a joint.
Capsaicin. Pronounced cap-SAY-sin, this substance is found in hot peppers and is an active ingredient in certain creams or gels that you rub on the skin. Capsaicin helps to block pain.
Range of motion. Joints can be extended, moved and rotated in various directions. This is known as their range of motion or ROM and involves the angles and distances of the limbs in relation to the rest of the body.
Cartilage. The tough and flexible tissue that covers the ends of bones where they join other bones is called cartilage. It allows bones to slide smoothly against one another and protects joints against jolts.
Arthroplasty. This is joint replacement surgery that involves the removal and replacement of a joint with a synthetic prosthesis. The initials TKR and THR stand for total knee replacement and total hip replacement, respectively.
Arthroscopy. This procedure is undertaken when an orthopaedic surgeon wants a close look at an arthritic joint. A tiny light and camera are inserted surgically into the joint. If necessary, minor repairs such as smoothing down the cartilage are completed.
You are part of your own health care team. To be an effective team member, you should understand as much as possible about your medical condition. Research your particular type of arthritis and talk to your doctor, to learn how to successfully live with this medical condition.
