Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation, swelling, and pain in the joints and surrounding tissues. While symptoms can vary, they typically include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion.

There are more than 100 types of arthritis. Among them, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common. It is estimated that over 54 million people in the United States live with some form of arthritis.

What Are the Different Types of Arthritis?

Each type of arthritis has a unique cause and characteristics. Some of the most common forms include:

Osteoarthritis (OA): The most prevalent form, where joint cartilage gradually wears down over time, often affecting the hands, knees, hips, and spine.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy joint tissue, particularly in the hands, wrists, and knees.

Gout: A form of inflammatory arthritis caused by excess uric acid crystals, often presenting in the big toe with sudden, intense pain.

Juvenile arthritis: Affects children and may result in permanent joint damage.

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS): Inflammation along the spine and pelvic joints leads to stiffness and chronic pain.

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA): Related to the skin condition psoriasis, this form affects joints and areas where tendons and ligaments connect to bones.

Reactive arthritis: Triggered by infections elsewhere in the body, this type can affect joints after the original infection resolves.

Common Signs and Symptoms

The general symptoms of arthritis may include:

  • Joint pain and stiffness

  • Swelling and reduced range of motion

  • Discomfort that worsens over time or comes and goes

Osteoarthritis

OA commonly leads to:

  • Joint pain or aching (especially in hands, knees, hips, and spine)

  • Swelling

  • Reduced flexibility and range of motion

Rheumatoid Arthritis

RA is systemic and often symmetrical, meaning both sides of the body are affected. Symptoms include:

  • Fatigue and fever

  • Joint pain, swelling, and tenderness

  • Reduced appetite and stiffness

Juvenile Arthritis

In children, symptoms of juvenile arthritis can include:

  • Pain and stiffness

  • Fatigue and lack of appetite

  • Rash and fever

  • Swollen joints

Gout

Gout often appears suddenly, most commonly in the big toe. Symptoms are:

  • Redness, swelling, and intense pain

  • Episodes (or flares) lasting days to weeks

  • Symptom-free periods called remissions

Ankylosing Spondylitis

AS usually causes:

  • Pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips

  • Worsened symptoms after rest

  • Improvement with movement and stretching

Psoriatic Arthritis

Common signs include:

  • Joint stiffness and pain

  • Swollen fingers and toes

  • Nail changes and eye redness

  • Skin symptoms from psoriasis (which may or may not be present)

Reactive Arthritis

Reactive arthritis generally occurs on one side of the body. Symptoms may include:

  • Foot and heel pain

  • Lower back or buttock discomfort

  • Swollen joints

  • Symptoms developing 1–6 weeks after infection

What Causes Arthritis?

In most cases, arthritis is caused by joint inflammation. This inflammation can break down cartilage and even damage bone over time.

Some forms of arthritis, such as gout and reactive arthritis, have clear causes. For example, gout results from high uric acid levels, while infections can lead to reactive arthritis.

Risk Factors

Your risk of arthritis increases due to several factors:

  • Being overweight or obese

  • Genetic predisposition

  • History of joint injuries or infections

  • Repetitive motion or physically demanding jobs

  • Smoking

  • Age (common in older adults)

  • Gender (more common in women)

How Is Arthritis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically begins with a detailed history and physical exam. A healthcare provider may look for:

  • Joint swelling, warmth, or reduced movement

  • Fluid accumulation around joints

  • Pain during motion or pressure

Additional diagnostic tests may include:

  • Blood tests for inflammatory markers

  • Biopsies of tissue samples

  • Joint fluid aspiration to assess uric acid or infection

  • X-rays to detect bone erosion or joint space narrowing

Treatment Options

There is no cure for arthritis, but many treatments can relieve symptoms, improve mobility, and prevent further joint damage.

General treatments include:

  • Pain relievers like acetaminophen or NSAIDs

  • Physical therapy and exercise programs

  • Low-impact aerobic activities, strength training, and flexibility routines

  • Massage and acupuncture

  • Prescription medications such as corticosteroids, DMARDs, or biologics

How To Prevent Flares

Flares can often be managed or prevented by:

  • Applying heat or ice to reduce pain and inflammation

  • Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce joint pressure

  • Minimizing stress with relaxation or mindfulness practices

  • Staying active with gentle exercise like walking, biking, or swimming

  • Avoiding repetitive joint movements and overuse

Related Conditions

People with arthritis may have an increased risk of:

  • Diabetes

  • Heart disease

  • Lung disorders (such as COPD or interstitial lung disease)

  • Osteoporosis

Living With Arthritis

Early diagnosis and treatment can protect joints, preserve mobility, and reduce long-term complications.

While arthritis is a chronic condition, many people manage it successfully through medication, lifestyle changes, and support from healthcare providers, including rheumatologists and orthopedists.

Exercise, sleep, and stress management are essential in daily arthritis care. A customized treatment plan can significantly improve comfort and quality of life.