Inflammatory arthritis is a group of autoimmune diseases that cause chronic inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues. It occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, leading to inflammation and damage in the affected areas.

The most common type of inflammatory arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of function in the joints. Other types of inflammatory arthritis include psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and gout.

Inflammatory arthritis treatment typically involves medications to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and slow disease progression, as well as lifestyle changes and physical therapy to improve joint function and overall well-being. These include:

• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) to help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) to slow disease progression and reduce joint damage.
• Lifestyle modifications, such as the following, can help manage pain:
  • Physical Therapy : Exercises to maintain joint flexibility, strength, and range of motion.
  • Occupational Therapy: Techniques to adapt daily activities and maintain independence.
  • Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce stress on joints.
  • Stress Management: Techniques like relaxation exercises and mindfulness can help manage symptoms.
  • Assistive Devices: Can aid in daily activities, such as canes, splints, and adaptive equipment.