Arthritis is a common condition that affects the joints, causing pain and inflammation. The term “arthritis” literally means joint inflammation. It’s not a single disease, but a term for many conditions that affect the joints of the body.

Types of Arthritis

1. Ankylosing spondylitis

2. Gout

3. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis

4. Osteoarthritis

5. Psoriatic arthritis

6. Reactive arthritis

7. Rheumatoid arthritis

8. Septic arthritis

The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, involves wear-and-tear damage to a joint’s cartilage — the hard, slick coating on the ends of bones where they form a joint. This damage can result in bone grinding directly on the bone, causing pain and restricted movement. It can occur at any age as a result of an injury or be associated with other joint-related conditions, such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the joints, beginning with the lining of joints. This can then spread across the joint, leading to further swelling and a change in the joint’s shape. This may cause the bone and cartilage to break down.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of arthritis are joint pain and stiffness, which typically worsen with age. Depending on the type of arthritis, signs and symptoms may include decreased range of motion.

The most common signs and symptoms of arthritis. Depending on the type of arthritis, signs, and symptoms may include:

• Pain

• Stiffness

• Swelling

• Redness

• Decreased range of motion

Risk factors

Risk factors for arthritis include:

• Family history. Some types of arthritis run in families.

• Age. The risk of many types of arthritis — including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout — increases with age.

• Sex. Women are more likely than men to develop rheumatoid arthritis, while most of the people who have gout, another type of arthritis, are men.

• Previous joint injury. People who have injured a joint, perhaps while playing a sport, are more likely to eventually develop arthritis in that joint.

• Obesity. Carrying excess pounds puts stress on joints, particularly your knees, hips, and spine. People with obesity have a higher risk of developing arthritis.

Complications

Severe arthritis, particularly if it affects the hands or arms, can make it difficult for you to do daily tasks. Arthritis of weight-bearing joints can keep the patient from walking comfortably or sitting up straight. In some cases, joints may gradually lose their alignment and shape.

Treatment

Treatments vary depending on the type of arthritis. The main goals of arthritis treatments are to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

Arthritis affects people of all ages, including children. It’s a condition that requires understanding and management, but with the right treatment, people with arthritis can lead active and fulfilling lives.