Arthritis – Lupus
Completing our series of posts in which Kiran delves deeper into arthritis and how it may impact on the lives of you and your loved ones. In this weeks’ post, we provide further information regarding one of the rarer conditions – Lupus.
Lupus
Lupus is also an autoimmune condition, just like Rheumatoid Arthritis. There are three different types of lupus, however when most people use the term “lupus” they are referring to systemic lupus erythematosus which can affect any organ or tissue and is characterized by joint pain and swelling, and fatigue. Lupus is uncommon, recent studies have shown a prevalence of 28 people in every 100,000 being affected in the U.K. In 90% of cases, it occurs in women of childbearing age with a greater incidence amongst African-Caribbean women.
Treatments – Anti-inflammatory drugs
As is the case with arthritis there is no cure, however there are treatments available to help individuals to manage their condition. Medication such as non-steroidal anti- inflammatories, Hydroxychloroquine, Corticosteroids, Immunosuppressants and Rituximab may help to alleviate the symptoms of lupus.
Treatments – Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy will help to alleviate pain, stiffness and inflammation whilst maintaining joint range of movement. This is most commonly achieved through the use of specific exercises to strengthen and stretch tissue, mobilisation techniques which help to maintain joint range, and electrotherapy alongside acupuncture to reduce and manage the pain.
