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Arthritis is one of the most common causes of joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Rather than being a single disease, arthritis is a term used to describe more than 100 different conditions that affect the joints and surrounding tissues.
Although arthritis is often associated with aging, it can affect people of all ages, including young adults and even children. Early diagnosis, lifestyle modifications, and appropriate treatment can help reduce pain, preserve joint function, and improve quality of life.
Arthritis is the inflammation or degeneration of one or more joints. Healthy joints are covered by smooth cartilage that allows bones to move easily against each other. In arthritis, this cartilage or the joint lining becomes damaged, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced movement.
Arthritis can affect any joint, but it most commonly involves the:
Some forms of arthritis affect only the joints, while others can also involve the skin, eyes, heart, or other organs.
There are many forms of arthritis, but the most common include:
The most common form of arthritis caused by gradual wear and tear of joint cartilage over time.
An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation and joint damage.
An inflammatory arthritis associated with psoriasis, a chronic skin condition.
Caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals inside the joints, often affecting the big toe but also other joints.
A chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects the spine and pelvis, leading to stiffness and reduced flexibility.
Arthritis affects millions of people worldwide and is one of the leading causes of disability.
It is more common among:
The causes vary depending on the type of arthritis.
Over time, cartilage naturally wears down, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis.
In rheumatoid arthritis and similar conditions, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissues.
Sports injuries or fractures may increase the likelihood of developing arthritis later in life.
Excess body weight places additional stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.
Certain types of arthritis may run in families.
In rare cases, bacteria or viruses can infect a joint, causing infectious arthritis.
Weak muscles surrounding the joints provide less support, increasing joint stress and contributing to pain and reduced function.
Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of arthritis.
Common symptoms include:
Inflammatory arthritis may also cause:
You may be at higher risk if you:
Some autoimmune forms, such as juvenile arthritis, may develop during childhood.
Inflammatory arthritis, autoimmune arthritis, and sports-related joint damage may occur.
Early osteoarthritis becomes more common, especially after previous injuries.
Osteoarthritis becomes increasingly common due to age-related cartilage degeneration.
Consult a healthcare professional if:
Diagnosis typically includes:
Your healthcare provider will ask about:
Assessment may include:
Imaging may include:
Blood tests may help identify inflammatory or autoimmune arthritis.
Treatment depends on the specific type and severity of arthritis.
Physical therapy can help:
Regular physical activity is one of the best ways to manage arthritis.
Helpful exercises include:
Simple changes can significantly improve joint health.
These include:
Doctors may recommend:
Treatment depends on the specific diagnosis.
Some patients benefit from corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections to reduce pain and improve function.
When conservative treatments are no longer effective, surgery may be recommended.
Examples include:
Not every type of arthritis can be prevented, but healthy habits may reduce your risk.
No. While osteoarthritis is more common with age, many forms of arthritis affect younger adults and even children.
No. Appropriate exercise usually improves joint function, strengthens muscles, and reduces pain.
Most forms of arthritis cannot be cured, but many can be effectively managed with medication, exercise, lifestyle changes, and physical therapy.
Some people report increased joint discomfort during cold or damp weather, although the exact reason isn't fully understood.
No. Most people manage arthritis successfully with non-surgical treatments. Surgery is generally reserved for severe joint damage or persistent pain that doesn't improve with other treatments.
Arthritis doesn't have to limit your daily life. Understanding the type of arthritis affecting your joints is the first step toward effective treatment and better long-term mobility.
A comprehensive assessment can help identify the underlying cause of your joint pain and create a personalized treatment plan to help you stay active and independent.