Arthritis is not just one condition—it’s a broad term that covers over 100 different types of joint diseases affecting millions of people worldwide. While each type of arthritis has its own causes and symptoms, they all share one common factor: joint pain and inflammation that can impact mobility and quality of life.
Understanding arthritis is the first step toward managing it. In this section, we’ll break down the most common types of arthritis, their symptoms, causes, and treatment options:
- Osteoarthritis (OA) – The most common form of arthritis, OA is often called “wear and tear” arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage in the joints breaks down over time, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – An autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack healthy joint tissue, leading to inflammation, pain, and potential joint damage.
- Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) – A type of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine, causing stiffness, pain, and in severe cases, fusion of the vertebrae.
Each type of arthritis has its own challenges, but with the right information and management strategies, it is possible to maintain mobility and improve quality of life. Click the links above to learn more about each condition and how to manage them effectively.