Arthritis Conditions

Tennis/golfer’s elbow-technically known as lateral/medical epicondylitis - occurs in many people who overuse their arms during athletics, gardening, or other activities. Although the pain may feel similar to arthritis, this condition is not arthritis. Sufferers may experience pain during handshaking and lifting light-weight items. The condition consists of inflammation, degeneration of the common extensor tendon, and sometimes may involve tendon tears.

Treatment involves changing one’s activities and preventing overuse of the forearm muscles. Ice packs, heat and NSAIDs help many people. Some individuals use a forearm brace, while others find that a local steroid injection at the tender spot in the elbow produces relief.

Housemaid’s Knee

Housemaid’s knee-technically known as prepatellar bursitis-may result, from frequent kneeling. There may be pain and swelling of the knees, as well and increased tenderness.

Treatment may involve avoiding kneeling, heat, ice packs, rest, and gentle exercise.

Baker’s Cyst

Baker’s cyst technically known as popliteal cysts- involves a swelling of the knee with mild or no discomfort initially. However, with full flexion of the knee, the individual experiences greater discomfort.

The condition involves a collection of fluid between the knee joint and the bursa. Popliteal cyst sometimes occurs after reheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or injury to the knee. An arthrogram and ultrasound help a physician make a diagnosis.

Treatment may include injection of corticosteroids into the knee joint and in some cases into the cyst itself. When the cyst results from degenerative arthritis or an internal injury to the knee, surgical repair may become necessary.

Related Articles

Arthritis Conditions

Housemaid’s Knee

Baker’s Cyst