Arthritis is inflammation or degeneration of joints — causing pain, stiffness, and reduced movement. It affects people of all ages, and most cases are very manageable with the right care.
350M+
People worldwide
100+
Types identified
80%
Manageable
Rotate and explore the anatomy of an arthritic knee joint
Arthritis isn't a single disease — it's an umbrella term for more than 100 conditions that affect joints, the surrounding tissue, and sometimes other parts of the body.
At its core, arthritis involves inflammation or degeneration of joints — the places where two bones meet. Healthy joints are cushioned by cartilage and lubricated by joint fluid, allowing smooth, pain-free movement.
When cartilage breaks down (as in osteoarthritis) or when the immune system attacks joint tissue (as in rheumatoid arthritis), this leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Each type has different causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches.
Gradual breakdown of cartilage — the protective cushion between bones — typically from aging or repeated stress on joints.
Select any joint to explore anatomy, symptoms, and management options. Switch filters to see how arthritis impacts different aspects of daily life.
Most commonly affected joint in OA
Common Symptoms
Activities Affected
Management Options
Arthritis symptoms can vary in intensity and may come and go in flares.
Warm, tender skin over the joint — a sign of active inflammation.
Especially worse in the morning or after sitting still for a while.
Fluid accumulation around the joint causes visible puffiness.
Difficulty bending, straightening, or moving the joint fully.
Sharp or aching pain during activity, weight-bearing, or pressure.
Crepitus — a crackling or grinding feeling when moving the joint.
Some risk factors can't be changed — but many can. Understanding them is the first step.
Risk increases significantly after 45, as cartilage naturally thins over decades of use.
Genetics play a role — particularly in rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis.
Every extra pound adds 3–4 pounds of pressure on knee joints. Losing weight helps significantly.
Past injuries — even from years ago — increase the likelihood of arthritis in that joint.
Jobs or activities requiring repeated joint movements increase wear-and-tear risk over time.
In RA and psoriatic arthritis, your own immune system drives the joint damage.
Treatment is personalized — most people start with lifestyle changes and progress only if needed.
Tailored exercise programs strengthen muscles around joints and maintain flexibility — reducing pain more effectively than rest alone.
Reducing excess body weight directly lowers mechanical stress on weight-bearing joints, especially knees and hips.
NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) and prescription options reduce swelling and pain. Used short-term or as needed under guidance.
For RA and psoriatic arthritis, DMARDs and biologics slow or stop disease progression rather than just masking symptoms.
Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections can provide targeted relief for specific joints — often lasting weeks to months.
When other treatments are insufficient, procedures like joint replacement offer long-lasting pain relief and restored mobility.
Small, consistent daily choices have a cumulative effect on joint health. Check off your routine.
Always discuss medication options with your doctor — the right choice depends on your type of arthritis and overall health.
Arthritis is a long-term condition — but it doesn't have to define your life.
Movement is medicine. Low-impact activity keeps joints flexible and strengthens the muscles that support them.
Stronger surrounding muscles take load off joints. Resistance exercises, twice weekly, make a real difference.
During flare-ups, rest affected joints and use anti-inflammatories as directed. Return gently to activity as it settles.
Occupational therapists can suggest tools and adaptations that help you do everyday tasks with less strain and pain.
Our team at Starling Clinic can help you build a personalized arthritis management plan.
Starling Clinic offers comprehensive arthritis care — from diagnosis to personalized treatment plans tailored to your life.