Arthritis

Causes

Arthritis is caused by repetitive, small traumas throughout the years causing the cartilage in joints to degrade. Academy-trained musicians are more prone to arthritis because of their use of small, repetitive movements. Arthritis is non-communicable.

Symptoms

The hallmark symptoms of arthritis are pain, swelling, and stiffness of the joints.

Treatment

Certain melodies have been developed that can ease the inflammation that is associated with arthritis, but these do not cure the underlying process or prevent the degradation of cartilage as far as experts are aware. The melodies are most effective when sung as is the case for many remedies.

Prognosis

Arthritis is a slowly progressive disease that can be slowed with musical therapies as described above. There is no known cure.

Sequela

If treatment is not sought, arthritis can deform the small joints of the hands and feet. This is unsightly and also restricts the free movement of the joint. These deformities would be career-threatening for most musicians and others that use their hands for their work.

Affected Groups

Arthritis is more common in those who have a family history of arthritis, the elderly, and those with occupations that have excessive repetitive motions.

Type

Physiological

Origin

Natural

Cycle

Chronic, Acquired

Rarity

Common

Prevention

Many people have tried to prevent arthritis by various means. Some swear that by avoiding cracking their knuckles they are preventing arthritis. Often people will sing the same melodies that are used in the treatment of arthritis to try to bulk up their cartilage. Some alter their diet with supplements. No method has to date been proven to prevent arthritis.