Joint Inflammation – Symptoms and Treatment

An inflammation is a condition wherein the body's white blood cells along with the immune proteins, which protect the body from infection and other foreign substances. But there are some diseases wherein the body's immune system triggers inflammatory response even when there are no foreign substances to fight off. Thus in such a situation body's own immune system causes damage to its own tissues.

The common symptoms of joint inflammation are:

1. Pain and stiffness in joints

2. Swelling in the joints

3. Loss of joint functions

Usually a joint inflammation occurs when the chemicals from the body are released into the affected tissues or the blood. Due to this release of chemicals the blood flow in that particular area increases resulting in redness. There are times when the chemicals may leak a fluid into the tissues resulting in swelling, thereby stimulating the nerves and leading to pain.

In case of joint inflammation, due to increased blood flow and release of chemicals white blood cells are attracted to the site of inflammation. Because of the increased number of white blood cells within the joint, the patient suffers from irritation, swelling of the joint lining as well as wearing down of cartilage. Joint inflammation is usually diagnosed through physical examination, blood tests and X-Ray reports.

When it comes to treating joint inflammation, an orthopedic doctor usually recommends medications, exercise, rest and surgery to correct the damage suffered by the joints. The treatment procedure is usually recommended based on the physical history of the patient, his age, and the symptoms of inflammation he is suffering from.

The main aim of the treatment is to relieve the pain by activity modification and medication, maintain healthy joint health, muscle strength through exercise along with physical therapy. In some cases the treatment procedure involves the use of canes, braces and splints so as to bring down the stress on the joints.

Researchers have found that diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and phytochemicals supplies anti-inflammatory nutrients to the body. Thus doctors generally recommend consumption of fruits, nuts, fish, olive oil and beans. Green tea has also shown positive results as it causes changes in the various immune responses thereby reducing the severity of the arthritis. Also oatmeal, brown rice, beans barley etc are proved to be an excellent source of C-reactive protein (CRP) which helps in bringing down the inflammation.

Thus joint inflammation is a physical condition which can be contained with proper medical help and following of the right diet and exercise routine.

For more information on joint inflammation and its treatment, visit www.psrihospital.com or call at +91 11 30611700.