What is Arthritis: Know Thy Enemy

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation and stiffness of the joints. It affects millions of people worldwide and is a leading cause of disability. It can affect people of all ages, genders and backgrounds. The disease worsens with age, so early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to limit disease progression and improve the quality of life for those affected. Additionally, it is associated with 120 different diseases that can affect muscles, joints and other tissues. Let's take a closer look.

What are the signs and symptoms of arthritis?

Arthritis symptoms vary widely depending on the type of arthritis and the joints affected. However, the most common symptoms of arthritis are:

Pain: Persistent or recurrent pain in one or more joints is a typical symptom of arthritis. The pain can be dull, aching, or stabbing and can range from mild to severe.
Stiffness: Arthritis often causes stiffness in the joints, especially after a period of inactivity, such as waking up in the morning or sitting for long periods of time.
Swelling: Inflammation of the joint lining (synovium) may cause visible swelling around the affected joint.
Warmth and redness: With arthritis, inflamed joints may feel warm and turn red or discolored.
Limited range of motion: Arthritis limits the range of motion of a joint, making it difficult to move the affected joint through its full range of motion.