Arthritis is a common condition that refers to inflammation of one or more joints, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. With more than 100 different types, arthritis can affect people of all ages, though it’s more prevalent in adults over 50. It can be mild or disabling, temporary or chronic, and localized or systemic, depending on the type.

In the United States, over 54 million people are affected by arthritis, making it one of the leading causes of disability.

Common Types of Arthritis

There are many forms of arthritis, each with its own cause and progression. Some of the most frequently diagnosed types include:

Osteoarthritis (OA): The most common type, OA results from wear and tear of cartilage over time. It typically affects weight-bearing joints such as knees, hips, spine, and hands.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the joints, causing inflammation and joint damage. RA usually affects the same joints on both sides of the body.

Gout: A type of inflammatory arthritis caused by an excess buildup of uric acid in the blood, which forms crystals in the joints, often starting with the big toe.

Juvenile Arthritis: A broad term for arthritis that affects children under 16. It can cause joint pain, swelling, and permanent joint damage.

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): Primarily affects the spine, causing stiffness and eventual fusion of spinal vertebrae.

Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Occurs in some individuals with psoriasis, causing joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.

Reactive Arthritis: Triggered by an infection in another part of the body, often affecting knees, ankles, and feet.

Key Symptoms

Symptoms can vary by type and severity, but general signs include:

  • Joint pain

  • Swelling

  • Stiffness

  • Redness and warmth in joints

  • Decreased range of motion

These symptoms may come and go or worsen over time. Early intervention can reduce joint damage and long-term complications.

Symptoms by Type

Osteoarthritis:

  • Joint pain and stiffness, especially after activity

  • Decreased mobility in the hands, knees, hips, or back

  • Swelling and aching in affected joints

Rheumatoid Arthritis:

  • Pain and swelling in symmetrical joints

  • Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes

  • Fatigue, low-grade fever, and weight loss

Juvenile Arthritis:

  • Joint pain and swelling

  • Fever, rash, and fatigue

  • Delayed growth in some cases

Gout:

  • Sudden intense pain, often in the big toe

  • Swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected joint

  • Episodes can last days or weeks with periods of remission

Ankylosing Spondylitis:

  • Lower back and hip pain

  • Stiffness improving with movement

  • Reduced spinal flexibility over time

Psoriatic Arthritis:

  • Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling

  • Red, scaly skin patches (psoriasis)

  • Nail changes and eye inflammation

Reactive Arthritis:

  • Pain in knees, ankles, or feet

  • Back or buttock discomfort

  • Can develop 1-6 weeks after infection

What Causes Arthritis?

The causes of arthritis vary depending on the type. Most forms involve an overactive immune response or wear and tear on joints.

Common causes include:

  • Autoimmune activity (RA, PsA)

  • Wear and tear from age or injury (OA)

  • Genetic factors

  • Uric acid buildup (Gout)

  • Infection-triggered immune response (Reactive Arthritis)

Inflammation is the primary mechanism in many types, leading to joint degradation over time.

Risk Factors

Several factors increase the likelihood of developing arthritis:

  • Age: Risk increases with age

  • Sex: Women are more prone to RA, lupus, and OA; men are more likely to get gout

  • Genetics: Family history raises susceptibility

  • Obesity: Extra weight stresses joints, especially knees, hips, and spine

  • Injury: Previous joint trauma can lead to arthritis later

  • Smoking: Increases RA and other autoimmune risks

  • Occupation: Jobs requiring repetitive joint movements

How Arthritis Is Diagnosed

A diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, physical exams, and diagnostic tests:

  • Blood tests: Look for markers of inflammation (e.g., ESR, CRP) or autoimmune activity (e.g., rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP)

  • Joint aspiration: Tests joint fluid for uric acid or infection

  • X-rays: Detect joint damage, erosion, and bone spurs

  • MRI/Ultrasound: Provides detailed imaging of soft tissue, cartilage, and early changes not seen on X-ray

  • Biopsy: In rare cases, a tissue sample may be taken for further analysis

Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of complications.

Treatment Options

While there is no universal cure for arthritis, many treatments help relieve symptoms and improve function:

Medications:

  • NSAIDs: Reduce inflammation and pain (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)

  • Acetaminophen: Manages mild to moderate pain

  • Corticosteroids: Used short-term to reduce flare-ups

  • DMARDs: Slow autoimmune-driven arthritis (e.g., methotrexate)

  • Biologics: Target specific parts of the immune system (e.g., TNF inhibitors)

Therapies:

  • Physical therapy: Improves mobility and strengthens muscles

  • Occupational therapy: Adapts activities to reduce joint stress

  • Massage therapy: Alleviates pain and promotes relaxation

Lifestyle and Complementary Approaches:

  • Exercise: Low-impact activities like swimming or walking

  • Weight management

  • Heat and cold therapy

  • Dietary supplements: Such as omega-3 fatty acids, turmeric

  • Acupuncture

Surgery (in advanced cases):

  • Joint replacement (hip, knee)

  • Joint fusion

  • Arthroscopy to repair damaged joints

Preventing Flares

To minimize arthritis flare-ups:

  • Follow your treatment plan

  • Avoid repetitive joint strain

  • Use assistive devices if needed

  • Rest during active flares but stay generally active

  • Manage stress with breathing exercises or mindfulness

  • Maintain a balanced diet and healthy weight

Using heat for stiffness and cold packs for inflammation can provide quick relief.

Related Conditions

Chronic arthritis may increase the risk of other health issues, including:

  • Diabetes

  • Heart disease

  • Osteoporosis

  • Lung problems (especially in RA)

  • Depression and anxiety

Managing both arthritis and related conditions is essential for long-term well-being.

Living With Arthritis

Arthritis is a long-term condition that can significantly affect daily activities, mobility, and emotional health. The key to living well with arthritis includes:

  • Early diagnosis and consistent care

  • Building a care team, including a rheumatologist or orthopedic specialist

  • Staying active and maintaining flexibility

  • Connecting with support groups or therapy if needed

  • Monitoring symptoms to track what worsens or improves them

With personalized treatment, many people with arthritis lead active, fulfilling lives.