What does arthritis do to your body?

Arthritis is a group of conditions that cause inflammation in the joints. This inflammation can damage the cartilage, bones, and ligaments that make up the joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Over time, arthritis can cause permanent damage to the joints, leading to disability.

There are many different types of arthritis, but the most common are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, and it occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its own joints. Psoriatic arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that occurs in people who have the skin condition psoriasis.

Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, but it most commonly affects the joints in the hands, feet, knees, hips, and spine. The symptoms of arthritis can vary depending on the type of arthritis, but they may include:

* Pain

* Stiffness

* Swelling

* Warmth

* Redness

* Tenderness

* Loss of range of motion

* Weakness

* Fatigue

There is no cure for arthritis, but there are treatments that can help to relieve symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. These treatments may include:

* Medication

* Physical therapy

* Occupational therapy

* Surgery

* Lifestyle changes

Arthritis can be a challenging condition to live with, but there are many things you can do to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. By working with your doctor, you can develop a treatment plan that is right for you.