This is a chronic, systematic inflammatory disorder that may affect many tissues and organs but principally synovial joints.
Signs and Symptoms:
Pain and inflammation in and around the affected joint. A reduced range of motion with the formation of inflammatory nodules and subsequent damage tot he joint tissue. It’s not specific to the joints and other organs can be affected.
The basic pathology is an autoimmune disorder in which the body primarily attacks synovial tissue but it can also attack tendons, ligaments and bones. This condition can also have a systematic effect on the body and is considered a systematic disease.
Modifiable risk factors are smoking. None modifiable is gender or family history.
I am bringing this up as I have came across it a few times over my time as a coach / trainer including my brother. Many people who have this condition will not train thinking it will make them worse!!!
You don’t need to let this condition prevent you from exercising. Weight loss can help reduce the pressure on the joints. The correct exercises can help with stabilisation of the affected joint(s) along with maintaining the best range of motion can help the symptoms of the condition.
If you or anyone you know suffers from this, please don’t hide in the shadows thinking you can’t do anything. It’s your time to shine, we have all the right tools to get you moving, get in touch and let me and my team help you.