Arthritis is the inflammation (swelling) of the joints. There are over 100 different kinds of arthritis, including juvenile arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, but the most common is osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease. The exact cause of osteoarthritis isn’t fully known, but it is related to the normal wear and tear of joints, and might also be hereditary. It is recognized by the fraying, wearing down and decay of the joints, and typically causes constant or intermittent joint pain, a hindrance or loss of motion in the joint, and in some cases, complete disability of the joint itself.

If you suffer from arthritis, many treatment options may exist that can help alleviate or eliminate many symptoms. Depending on the type of arthritis you have and the severity, treatment options can range from strengthening and range-of-motion exercises to lifestyle changes, medications, and possibly surgery.