Rheumatoid Arthritis

Degenerative and Congenital Disorders
Degenerative disorders may develop as a result of the normal aging process and wear and tear. Just like a mechanical device the human body is subject to wear and tear from use. However, unlike machinery, the human body has the ability to heal or attempt to repair itself.

At birth the structural integrity of the spine, heart, lungs, and other organ systems is at its peak for future development. During mid-life early microscopic changes begin to appear that indicate the spine is aging. The spine does not deteriorate just because of age. Wear and tear is also responsible. Disorders such as arthritis (arth-rye-tis), spinal stenosis (spinal sten-oh-sis), and osteoporosis (os-t-o-pour-o-sis) do not develop overnight. Degenerative diseases may take years to develop and may be associated with past injury, abuse, body structure, or congenital problems.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) (room-ah-toyed arth-rye-tis) is a progressive form of arthritis that can be painfully destructive. RA may cause the interior joint tissues to swell and thicken. Over time the affected joint disintegrates leading to deformity. RA may appear during early middle age and is more common in women than men. The symptoms include fatigue, weakness, and loss of appetite, fever, and anemia. Upon rising joints are usually stiff, swollen, and tender. Medication is available to help relieve pain and inflammation. Regular exercise helps joints to function. Passive forms of physical therapy may help to increase joint mobility.

This article is an excerpt from a book titled Save Your Aching Back and Neck, A Patient's Guide (Second Edition, May 2002, completely revised).