About Arthritis
About Arthritis
Arthritis is not a single condition — it includes many different types affecting the musculoskeletal system.
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is not one disease. Learn about the different types of arthritis, how they differ and why it’s important.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Arthritis
Arthritis symptoms are complicated and varied, but this checklist can help you and your doctor figure out what’s going on.
When It's Time to See a Doctor for Joint Pain
Learn when you need to see a doctor for joint problems.
Diagnosing Arthritis
Information about symptoms, health and lifestyle habits will help determine the type of arthritis you have.
Type of Arthritis Pain
Get the basics about different kinds of joint disease and how each creates pain.
Inflammation and the Immune System
Body-wide inflammation is at the root of most chronic diseases — and you may have more control over it than you think.
Cause: Buildup of uric acid crystals in joints.
Common Sites: Big toe, feet, ankles, knees.
Symptoms: Sudden, severe pain, swelling, redness.
Typical Onset: Middle-aged men, postmenopausal women.
Cause: Autoimmune inflammation in children.
Common Sites: Knees, wrists, hands.
Symptoms: Joint pain, swelling, growth issues, eye inflammation.
Typical Onset: Children under 16.
Cause: Autoimmune disease affecting multiple organs, including joints.
Symptoms: Joint pain, fatigue, skin rashes, kidney involvement.
Common Sites: Hands, wrists, knees (can be widespread).
Cause: Reaction to infection (e.g., gastrointestinal or urinary).
Symptoms: Joint pain, eye inflammation, urinary symptoms.
Common Sites: Knees, ankles, feet.
