What is Arthritis?

This blog gives a general description of arthritis. It may be helpful if you are unsure if you have arthritis. It provides general information about how arthritis is diagnosed and what you can do to manage it. It also tells you where you can find more information.

What Does Arthritis Mean?

Arthritis is a name for a group of conditions affecting the joints. These conditions cause damage to the joints, usually resulting in pain and stiffness. Arthritis can affect many different parts of the joint and nearly every joint in the body.

Types of Arthritis?

There are over 100 forms of arthritis. Each type of arthritis affects you and your joints in different ways. Some forms of arthritis can also involve other parts of the body, such as the eyes. The most common forms of arthritis are:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Gout
• Ankylosing spondylitis

Who Gets Arthritis?

Anyone can get arthritis, including children and young people. Many people think arthritis is a normal part of getting older. This is not true. In fact, two out of every three people with arthritis are between 15 and 60 years old. Arthritis can affect people from all backgrounds, ages and lifestyles.