Many people develop arthritis because they treat their joints and extremities poorly. They pound on joints, overstress muscles, ligaments, and tendons as well as perform many activities using poor ergonomics. Osteoarthritis, a very common issue for many of us, is a disease that develops from microtraumas we impart on our own bodies, causing a progressive wear and tear of the cartilage and other structures. Yes, arthritis is often simply a process of wear and tear….so taking better care of ourselves can make a huge difference. Just like your car, phone, computer, and heart. A few little changes can go a long way to make your life happier and more comfortable, as well as the lives of the ones you love.
Arthritis is a condition whose underlying cause in most cases is inflammation which can cause destruction of the joint and is often first noted as a feeling of stiffness or swelling in the joint. The symptoms of arthritis can vary depending on the type of arthritis, but some common signs to look out for include: