了解關節痛的三類原因

Hong Kong experiences hot and rainy summers, and many people suffer from...Joint problemsThis causes immense suffering for many. Some patients jokingly say they are more accurate than the observatory, as their joints start to ache whenever there is a change in air pressure or before it rains. Rheumatologists advise that if morning stiffness in the hands or other joints lasts longer than 30 minutes, one should seek medical attention as soon as possible to avoid missing the optimal treatment window.

Rheumatologist Dr. Yu Jialong points out that most diseases that cause joint pain can be classified as rheumatic diseases. From a medical perspective, joint swelling and pain may be related to changes in temperature, humidity, and air pressure. The causes of arthritis are mainly divided into three categories: the first is osteoarthritis, which is the most common type of arthritis, usually caused by aging or accidental injury.

The second type is inflammatory arthritis, mainly caused by immune system dysfunction. The body attacks its own joints and soft tissues, and common symptoms include redness, swelling, heat, pain, and morning stiffness. Most patients experience discomfort in their wrist and finger joints. Common diseases include rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, and some cases have a genetic predisposition. The third type is crystalline arthritis, such as gout, caused by excessive accumulation of uric acid in the body, triggering a local joint inflammation reaction.

The treatments for these three types of arthritis differ. The primary task is to differentiate between inflammatory arthritis and mechanical arthritis. Patients with inflammatory arthritis typically experience morning stiffness, which requires prolonged activity to relieve. If this occurs, it is very likely inflammatory arthritis.

Mechanical arthritis typically causes increased pain during activity and does not present with morning stiffness. Dr. Yu emphasizes that if inflammatory arthritis is suspected, treatment should be sought as soon as possible; otherwise, it may lead to damage to cartilage and bone, causing joint deformities and affecting daily activities. Treatment usually involves medications and biological agents.

Osteoarthritis is caused by aging, being overweight, poor posture, and excessive activity. Treatment primarily involves physical therapy, including reducing the burden on the knee joint, weight loss, strengthening thigh muscles, and knee exercises. Severe cases may require surgical correction or total joint replacement.arthritisIn this case, medication is needed to lower uric acid levels and prevent joint inflammation.

Dr. Yu Jialong suggests that since arthritis is often accompanied by joint stiffness, people should develop a habit of regular exercise. When knee pain occurs, the first thing to do is to rest fully. Depending on the situation, you can choose to apply ice, heat, or use a knee brace to reduce the burden on the joint.