Arthritis is a condition where the joints and the tissues that surround joints become inflamed. Arthritis is a very painful condition and can also involve the immune system and other internal organs in the body.

Symptoms can develop gradually or all at once.

Signs and symptoms of arthritis include:

• Pain
• Aching
• Stiffness
• Swelling

The cause of arthritis varies for each type, arthritis could be caused by injury, abnormal metabolism, infections, and immune system dysfunction. There are also risk factors that can put you at a higher risk for developing arthritis:

Age- the risks of developing arthritis increases with age

Genetics- certain genes are associated with a higher risk of developing arthritis

Sex- arthritis is more common in females

There are about 200 different types of arthritis but are split into seven groups.

• Connective tissue disease
• Soft tissue musculoskeletal pain
• Infectious arthritis
• Inflammatory arthritis
• Degenerative or mechanical arthritis
• Metabolic arthritis.
• Back pain

Treatments for arthritis is mostly aimed to control pain, maintain function, and minimize joint damage. Treatments can range from medications, physical therapy, joint assistive aids, weight loss, and even surgery.