Preksha Dhyana Human Body Part 2

Author(s): Jethalal S Zaveri
Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati

Page 73

thinning and ultimate disintegration of the joint cartilages. Increased function, due to reduced lubrication, irritates the periosteum, stimulating proliferation of bony-growths on the joint surfaces.
Rheumatoid arthritis results in fusion of the bones of the joint and a total loss of mobility. Its cause is still unknown. It begins with the inflammation and thickening of the synovial membrane and tissue which damages the joint cartilage. Tough fibrous material, then, limits motion in the joints. Ul. timately the fibrous tissue may become calcified and converted to bone and then fuse together.
Gout is characterized by an increase in the uric acid level of blood and the formation of deposits of urates in the joints. Inflammation and damage to the particular cartilages result.
No cure for arthritis has yet been found. However, considerable progress has been made in the surgical repair of arthritic joints.
Rheumatism is a common, rather loosely used term for an inflammation of the fibrous connective tissue. The affected joints become tender and stiff, and the victim's movements become limited and painful. The fibrositis may travel from one joint to another. Fortunately there is no permanent damage to the joints and recovery can be complete. In a related condition e.g. when tendons of the hand are affected, the hand may become locked into a clawlike position, with the patient unable to extend the fingers.
Rheumatic fever is a bacterial disease caused by streptococcus pyogenes. The initial symptoms involve the joints. It begins with a sudden intense inflammation of the synovial tissues, tendons and other connective tissues around the joints, accompanied by fever and pain. After a time, the pain and inflammation of the joints may subside, but the disease may cause permanent damage to the heart-valves which is later manifested as rheumatic heart disease.
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