There are over 100 different types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis, affecting about 21 million Americans according to the Arthritis Foundation. Actually, the term osteoarthritis is a bit misleading. “Osteo” comes from the Greek word for bone; you would expect, therefore, that the name refers to an inflammation of the bone. In reality, OA is a degenerative joint disease, characterized by breakdown of the cartilage that surrounds and cushions the bones.

Once the cartilage begins to break down, the joint enters a cycle of pain and deterioration. Learn more about this diagnosis from this easy-to-read guide.  A Joint Venture: Your Guide to Osteoarthritis

When all the forms of arthritis are taken together, it ranks as the leading cause of disability among American adults, affecting almost 43 million individuals — about one out of every six people — according to the Arthritis Foundation. In addition, it’s estimated that as the population ages, the number of affected individuals will increase dramatically — to almost 60 million by the year 2020.

It’s important to note, though, that arthritis is not just an “old person’s disease.” Nearly three out of every five people who have it are under 65, and children as young as a few weeks may display symptoms of certain types of arthritis. And actually, it’s not even limited to humans; any animal whose body contains joints can suffer from it. Learn more about arthritis and gout from this easy-to-read guide.  A Joint Venture: Your Guide To Gout

Arthritis is a disease caused by inflammation of one or more of the body’s joints. It may produce pain, swelling, and stiffness in the affected areas. When we think about arthritis, the first image that comes to mind is often an elderly person with gnarled hands or a hunched back. However, there are actually over 100 different types of the disease, each with its own unique cause, symptoms, and treatments.

Currently there is no cure for most forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis. However, there are effective ways not only to prevent the disease but also to reduce its symptoms, lessen its disabling effects, and improve an individual’s quality of life, as well. Learn more about this and other types of Arthritis.  A Joint Venture: Your Guide to Rheumatoid Arthritis