Arthritis causes pain and inflammation in a joint.

Symptoms

Arthritis affects people of all ages, including children. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the 2 most common types of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis initially affects the smooth cartilage lining of the joint. This makes movement more difficult than usual, leading to pain and stiffness.

Severe loss of cartilage can lead to bone rubbing on bone, altering the shape of the joint and forcing the bones out of their normal position.

The most commonly affected joints are those in the: hands, spine, knees and hips.

Treatments

There’s no cure for arthritis, but there are many treatments that can help slow it down.

Osteoarthritis treatments include lifestyle changes, medicines and surgery.

Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis aims to slow the condition’s progress and minimise joint inflammation. This helps prevent joint damage.

Treatments include medication, physiotherapy and surgery.