Understanding Different Joint Disorders

Types of Joint Disorders

• Osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative joint disease characterised by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. This condition commonly affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: This is an autoimmune disorder that causes chronic inflammation of the joints. This condition typically affects the small joints of the hands and feet symmetrically, but may also involve other joints and organs.Read more about Arthritis
• Gout: This is a form of arthritis caused by the build-up of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness, often in the big toe. Gout attacks can be triggered by certain foods or drinks high in purines, such as red meat, shellfish, and alcohol.
• Lupus: This autoimmune disease affects various parts of the body, including the joints, skin, kidneys, heart, and lungs. In lupus, the immune system attacks healthy tissues, leading to inflammation and damage.
• Bursitis: This is caused by inflammation of the bursae, which are small sacs filled with fluid that cushion and lubricate areas between tendons, bones, and muscles near joints. This condition causes pain and stiffness, especially with movement. Common areas affected include the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee.
• Tendonitis: This is caused by inflammation or irritation of a tendon, the thick fibrous cords that attach muscles to bones. This condition typically occurs due to overuse or injury leading to pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area. Common areas affected by tendonitis include the shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee, and heel.

Symptoms of Joint Disorders

Common symptoms associated with joint disorders include stiffness, inflammation, swelling or tenderness around the joint, joint and muscle pain, joint instability, limited range of movement, and loss of movement.

Causes and Risk Factors of Joint Disorders

Joint disorders can arise from various factors, including age-related wear and tear, injuries, and overuse or misuse. As individuals age, the wear and tear on joints can result in the degeneration of cartilage. Similarly, the overuse or misuse of joints due to repetitive movements or carrying excess weight, can contribute to these issues. Traumatic injuries, commonly linked to sports and other high-impact activities, can result in fractures or dislocations, leading to cartilage damage.

Several factors contribute to the development of joint disorders; which include:

• Occupation: Jobs that involve repetitive movements or heavy lifting can increase the risk of joint disorders.
• Previous Joint Injury: Individuals with a history of fractures, dislocations, or ligament tears are at higher risk of joint disorders.
• Obesity: Excess weight added stress on the joints, particularly in weight-bearing joints such as the knee, hip, and spine. This stress may accelerate joint degeneration and increase the risk of arthritis.
• Genetic Predispositions: Some joint disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, have a genetic component. Individuals with a family history of these conditions are at a higher risk.
• Lifestyle Factors: Lifestyle choices like smoking, poor diet, and lack of exercise can contribute to joint disorders.

Diagnosing Joint Disorders

The diagnostic process for joint disorders typically involves:

• A thorough physical examination by a healthcare professional, including an orthopaedic specialist or rheumatologist.
• Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans may be used to assess the joint's condition and detect any abnormalities.
• Blood tests may also be conducted to check for markers of inflammation or specific joint-related conditions.
• Joint aspiration (where needed) where a fluid sample is withdrawn from the joint for analysis may be performed to diagnose certain conditions.

Treatment Options in Singapore

1. Surgical Treatments

• Joint Replacement: Joint replacement surgery for the hips, knees, and shoulders generally have high success rates, with many patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved joint function.
• Arthroscopy: This uses minimally invasive methods to diagnose and treat joint disorders such as meniscal tears, ligament injuries, and cartilage damage with minimal trauma to surrounding tissues.

2. Non-Surgical Treatments

• Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and disease-modifying medications are commonly prescribed to manage joint pain and inflammation.
• Physiotherapy: With tailored and targeted exercises, this plays a crucial role in the management of joint disorders, improving joint mobility, strength, and function.
• Lifestyle Modifications: This includes weight management, regular exercise, and strategies to protect the joints.

Lifestyle and Management

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is recommended as these foods provide essential nutrients that support joint function. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, are particularly beneficial. Conversely, processed foods, sugary drinks, and foods high in saturated fats should be limited, as they can contribute to inflammation and worsen joint conditions.

Engaging in regular exercise is crucial for enhancing joint flexibility, strength, and overall function. Low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, and walking are generally safe for individuals with joint disorders.

Prevention of Joint Disorders

To reduce the risk of developing joint disorders, individuals should take the following preventive measures:

• Practise proper body mechanics during physical activities and sports by wearing appropriate protective gear, such as knee pads or wrist guards
• Exercise regularly, preferably at least once a week
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the joints

Early detection of joint disorders is crucial for effective management. Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans aids in diagnosing joint disorders early. Individuals should monitor their joint health and seek medical attention if they notice signs of joint disorders.