Arthritis Basics 

What is arthritis? Are there different types?

The term “arthritis” means inflammation of a joint. A joint is the place where two bones connect. There are more than 100 types of arthritis and related conditions. In some diseases in which arthritis occurs, other organs, such as your eyes, heart, or skin, can also be affected.

Watch the video below to see how the most common types of arthritis affect the body.

Get to know the science behind what causes the stiff, creaky joints of the most common forms of arthritis and what you can do to prevent it. -- The bad backs...

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

Common arthritis symptoms include:

  • Swelling

  • Pain

  • Stiffness

  • Decreased range of motion

Severe arthritis can result in chronic pain, inability to do daily activities and difficulty walking or climbing stairs. The first step to getting a diagnosis is talking to your doctor about your symptoms.

Try these tools to help understand your symptoms:

This group is not intended to provide individual medical advice, which should only be obtained directly from a qualified physician or healthcare professional.