Arthritis is a group of conditions involving damage to the joints of the body. It is the most common cause of disability in the USA. More than 20 million individuals are affected by arthritis on a daily basis.

There are over 100 different forms of arthritis. The most common form, osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease) is a result of trauma to the joint, infection of the joint, or age. Other forms of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and autoimmune diseases in which the body attacks itself.

The major complaint by individuals who have arthritis is pain. Pain is often a constant and daily feature of the disease. The pain may be localized to the back, neck, hip, knee or feet. The pain from arthritis occurs due to inflammation that occurs around the joint, damage to the joint from disease, daily wear and tear of joint, muscles strains caused by forceful movements against stiff, painful joints and fatigue.

Symptoms
Regardless of the type of arthritis, the common symptoms for all arthritis disorders include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Joint stiffness
- Constant aching around the joint(s).

Arthritic disorders like lupus and rheumatoid can also affect other organs in the body with a variety of symptoms.
- Inability to use the hand or walk

Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made by clinical examination from an appropriate health professional, and may be supported by radiology and blood tests, depending on the type of suspected arthritis. Most forms of arthritis feature pain. Pain patterns may differ depending on the type of arthritis and the location. Elements of the history of the disorder guide diagnosis. Important features are speed and time of onset, pattern of joint involvement, symmetry of symptoms, early morning stiffness, tenderness, gelling or locking with inactivity, and other systemic symptoms. Physical examination may confirm the diagnosis, or may indicate systemic disease. .

Prevention
While neither Rheumatoid arthritis nor osteoarthritis can be completely prevented, one can reduce the risks by becoming physically active, participating in physical therapy, losing weight and eating healthy. All individuals who have pain in the joints should seek early diagnosis because the earlier the treatment is started, the better is the prognosis.

Treatment
The most important factor in treatment is to understand the disorder and find ways to overcome the obstacles which prevent physical activity. Once the diagnosis of arthritis is made, treatments are available for a variety of symptoms. There is no cure for either rheumatoid or osteoarthritis. Treatment to reduce inflammation in the joint decreases pain, as well as slows dammage. Treatment options vary depending on the type of arthritis and include:
- Physical therapy
- Lifestyle changes (including exercise and weight control)
- Orthopedic bracing
- Medications
- Dietary supplements (symptomatic or targeted at the disease process causing the arthritis)
- Arthroplasty (joint replacement surgery) may be required in eroding forms of arthritis.