Arthritis

We can all feel a bit stiff in the morning. From time to time, we may even feel achy or sore. But with arthritis, a person can feel stiff, achy, or sore all the time. Arthritis means "joint inflammation" and refers to a group of diseases that cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of motion in the joints (places in the body where bones meet like elbows, knees, and hips). "Arthritis" is often used as a more general term to refer to the more than 100 rheumatic diseases that may affect the joints but can also cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in other supporting structures of the body such as muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, and internal organs. Throughout this FAQ the terms "arthritis" and "rheumatic diseases" are sometimes used interchangeably.

The amount of discomfort caused by this disease varies from person to person. Some people can have pain so severe, they have to limit their daily activities. Other people have mild to moderate pain that doesn't limit them much or at all. Sometimes there are periods of time without any pain or discomfort.

Arthritis is a chronic, or life long, disease that has no cure. The good news is that many advances have been made in arthritis research. There are medicines and other treatments for the disease. Getting enough rest and exercise, controlling weight, and keeping a good diet can also help ease symptoms. Other treatments include the use of pain relief methods and assistive devices, such as splints or braces. When arthritis is severe, surgery may be needed