This is one of the most debilitating forms of arthritis because it causes joint pain and can eventually lead to their deformation .In this case , even the most simple activities like walking or opening a bottle can become very difficult .It is characterized by onset in children under 16 years and includes several categories . Unlike osteoarthritis , which results from wear and tear of the joints , RA is an inflammatory disease . The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not known , but the disease is included in the category of autoimmune disease ( the immune system produces antibodies against its own tissues ) . In some cases , genetic abnormality may be involved (inherited from parents). Another assumption involves bacteria , viruses or other foreign substances in the pathological activation of the immune system.

The onset consists of chronic inflammation of the membrane that cushions the inside of joints . Here we find soft tissue formations which play an important role in the joint’s stability and mobility. RA starts with an inflammation, the immune system’s reaction in the presence of local infection or other toxins that can not be eliminated from the body.

Treatment

There have been recorded many breakthroughs in the last 25 years in controlling rheumatoid arthritis. Research has shown that early treatment with antirheumatic medications increases our chances of getting a long-term remission. This will happen if the treatment will be followed during the first six months of illness. Treatment objectives are to reduce symptoms, restore and maintain proper joint function. To stop the inflammation and joint destruction, the areas with damaged tissue must be regenerated and the toxins eliminated from the body. This is possible through acupuncture, phytotherapy and thermotherapy.

Pediatric form is juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) .

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) is the most common type of arthritis that affects children. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic (long term) disease that affects the joints. Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) that we find sometimes called juvenile chronic arthritis is a childhood disease . It leads to joints inflammation , swelling , stiffness and pain . JRA affects about one out of 1000 children . Children with the age of 16 or less .

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