What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a joint disorder featuring inflammation. A joint is an area of the body where two different bones meet. A joint functions to move the body parts connected by its bones. Arthritis literally means inflammation of one or more joints.



Arthritis is frequently accompanied by joint pain. Joint pain is referred to as arthralgia.There are many types of arthritis (over 100 and growing). The types range from those related to wear and tear of cartilage to those associated with inflammation resulting from an overactive immune system . Together, the many types of arthritis make up the most common chronic illness in the United States.

The causes of arthritis depend on the form of arthritis. Causes include injury (leading to osteoarthritis), metabolic abnormalities , hereditary factors, infections, and unclear reasons .

Arthritis is classified as one of the rheumatic diseases. These are conditions that are different individual illnesses, with differing features, treatments, complications, and prognoses. They are similar in that they have a tendency to affect he joints, muscles, ligaments, cartilage, and tendons, and many have the potential to affect other internal body areas.

What are symptoms of arthritis?

Symptoms of arthritis include pain and limited function of joints. Inflammation of the joints from arthritis is characterized by joint stiffness, swelling, redness, and warmth. Tenderness of the inflamed joint can be present.Many of the forms of arthritis, because they are rheumatic diseases, can cause symptoms affecting various organs of the body that do not directly involve the joints. Therefore, symptoms in some patients with certain forms of arthritis can also include fever, gland swelling , weight loss, fatigue, feeling unwell, and even symptoms from abnormalities of organs such as the lungs, heart, or kidneys.

How is arthritis treated?

The treatment of arthritis is very dependent on the precise type of arthritis present. An accurate diagnosis increases the chances for successful treatment. Treatments available include physical therapy, splinting, cold pack application, paraffin wax dips, antiinflammation medications, immune-altering medications, and surgical operations.

Arthritis At A Glance

• Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints.



• Symptoms of arthritis include pain and limited function of joints.



• Arthritis sufferers include men and women, children and adults.



• A rheumatologist is a medical arthritis expert.



• Earlier and accurate diagnosis can help to prevent irreversible damage and disability.