There are several kinds of Arthritis

1. Degenerative – e.g. osteoarthritis, cervical and lumbar spondylitis.
2. Inflammatory–rheumatoid, arthritis, ankylosis spondylitis and psoriatic.
3. Arthritis
4. Infective–bacterial pneumo, gono, meningo, strepto and styphylo and viral (rubella).
5. Metabolic–Gout

Ankylosing Spondylitis

It is an inflammatory disorder of the spinal cord resulting in fusion of vertebrae due to loose bodies formed around the structures causing stiffness and rigidity. Totally fused spinal cord is quite an advanced stage of the disease and the spinal cord looks like a bamboo stick and hence it is also known as ‘Bamboo Spine’.

Treatments

Treatments listed for lower and upper back pains hold good for this condition also.

Cervical Spondylosis

This is the condition where the bones of the neck (Cervical vertebrae) undergo changes of wear and tear. Cervical Spondylosis is more common among the aged but that does not mean younger age group is free from it. In fact irrespective of age, it is striking all now, which is mainly due to unhealthy lifestyle and the way the spinal cord is used for daily activities. Incorrect posture, whiplash while driving vehicles, constantly bending forward while working, stress and strain, result in pain and stiffness at the neck region due to spasm/strain. Apart from stiffness are radiating pains to shoulder and hands with feeling of pricking of pins and needles and frequent giddiness (due to basilar artery deficiency or compression on the basilar artery supplying to brain).

Sometimes, Cervical Spondylosis suffers are advised to wear a collar belt that immobilizes the area and provides relief from pain. But immobilization can lead to permanent stiffness and muscles may become weak.

Treatment

• Avoidance of constant bending forward and pressure over the neck.
• Gentle massage to neck, spine and shoulder followed by hot and cold affusions or neutral affusion.
• Hot and cold fomentations in case of acute spasm and pain.
• Arm contrast baths to relieve radiating pain to hands.
• Regular head and neck exercises.
• Maintenance of correct posture during all activities.

Other Disorders of the Lower Limbs

Calcaneal Spur

It is a condition occurring due to the deposition of calcium around the Calcaneum bone (heel bone) resulting in pain. Pain is particularly felt when the foot is placed on the floor and disappears after one walks a few steps.

Treatment

• Since excess weight adds to the existing problem, reduction of weight is essential.
• Hot foot immersion with Epsom salt before going to bed and in the morning, on raising from bed, relieves the pain.
• Wear soft slippers cushioned at the heel.