Untreated, spondylitis can gradually progress up the spine as it involves successive vertebrae. Regular physical therapy to strengthen back muscles plus medications to manage pain and inflammation are used to treat spondylitis. Men are more susceptible to gout than women. Another systemic disease affecting primarily women, scleroderma gets its name from its characteristic thickened or tight skin. Scleroderma also affects the blood vessels, joints and body organs.
Symptoms can range from moderate to severe.
Though little can be done for its associated skin conditions, proper treatment can maintain limb function and reduce the risk of internal organ involvement. These forms of arthritis are localized and can be most readily treated. A family or internal medicine physician can usually determine which of the more common forms of arthritis someone may have from a physical examination and a careful review of individual symptoms. There are few cures for the various forms of arthritis. Treatments are designed to manage pain and maximize mobility.