Periarthritis is a medical term that refers to inflammation of the tissues surrounding a joint. The word is pronounced /periˈɑːrθraɪtɪs/ with stress on the second syllable. The spelling of the word can be broken down into its parts: "peri-" means around or surrounding, "-arthritis" refers to inflammation of a joint. Understanding the parts of the word can help in spelling it correctly. Periarthritis can cause joint pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. Treatment typically involves rest, pain management, and physical therapy.
Periarthritis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation and pain in the tissues around a joint, commonly the shoulder. The term "peri-" means "around" and "-arthritis" refers to joint inflammation. It is often misunderstood as a form of arthritis, but it is not a true arthritis as it does not primarily affect the joint itself.
Periarthritis typically occurs when the connective tissues, such as tendons, muscles, and bursae, surrounding a joint become inflamed. This inflammation can be caused by various factors, including overuse or repetitive stress on the joint, injury, or underlying medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. The condition commonly affects individuals between the ages of 40 and 60.
Symptoms of periarthritis may include pain, stiffness, and tenderness around the affected joint. The range of motion may also be limited, making it difficult to perform certain movements. Pain often worsens with activity and may even disturb sleep at night.
Treatment for periarthritis focuses on relieving pain and inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy, including exercises and stretches, is often recommended to improve joint mobility and strengthen the surrounding muscles. In some cases, immobilization of the joint with a sling or brace may be necessary.
Overall, early recognition and appropriate treatment are crucial in managing periarthritis and minimizing discomfort. Seeking medical advice is important for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
Inflammation of the parts surrounding a joint.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "periarthritis" is derived from Greek roots. It can be broken down into two components:
1) "Peri-" comes from the Greek word "peri", which means "around" or "surrounding".
2) "Arthron" is the Greek word for "joint".
Combining these two components, "periarthritis" refers to inflammation or disorder in the tissues surrounding a joint.