Arthritis
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the two most common types of arthritis.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis causes pain and inflammation in the joints. The cartilage lining of a joint begins to deteriorate, becoming rough and thin. Consequently, other joint structures, such as tendons and ligaments, endure greater strain, leading to difficulties in movement due to stiffness and pain. Therefore, this condition results in swelling and the formation of bony spurs known as osteophytes.
In severe cases of osteoarthritis, there is a significant loss of cartilage, which can lead to bones rubbing against each other. Besides being extremely painful, this alters the shape of the entire joint, exerting pressure on the bones and pushing them out of their normal position. This condition predominantly affects post-menopausal women.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis predominantly affects women between their 30s and 50s, involves the body’s own immune system targeting the affected joints. This results in painful deformities and swelling caused by the erosion of bone and cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis can also lead to complications involving other tissues and organs in the body.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia manifests differently in individuals, exhibiting a wide range of symptoms. Most people experience pain that varies from aching to burning sensations or stabbing pains. Other symptoms may include stiffness, headaches, bowel problems, fatigue, extreme sensitivity to even gentle touch or light. These symptoms can also lead to anxiety and depression. Depending on the stage of the condition, massage therapy can help alleviate some of these symptoms.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a long-term medical condition, most commonly found in older people, particularly post-menopausal women due to a decrease in oestrogens level. Osteoporosis weakens bones to the point where even mild pressure can cause fractures. In healthy adults, bones undergo constant remodelling, which involves being broken down by cells called osteoclasts and rebuilt by cells called osteoblasts. In osteoporosis, this delicate balance in the remodelling process is disrupted, leading to weakened bones. Additionally, osteoporosis can result in bone marrow oedema, characterised by swelling due to fluid buildup.