12061 Arthritis

Overview

Arthritis is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in one or more joints. It is not a single disease — there are more than 100 different types, with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being the most common.

Yes. Arthritis is one of the most common long-term conditions in the world. In the UK, around 10 million people live with some form of arthritis, and it is a leading cause of pain and disability.

Arthritis can affect anyone, but the risk increases with age. Women are more likely to develop certain types, and some forms — like juvenile idiopathic arthritis — affect children and teenagers.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Joint pain
• Stiffness, especially after resting or in the morning
• Swelling in or around the joint
• Redness or warmth over the joint
• Reduced range of motion or difficulty moving the joint

Symptoms in children

• Joint pain or limping
• Swelling in the joints
• Fever
• Fatigue or irritability
• Sometimes a rash

Symptoms in older adults

• Pain and stiffness in weight-bearing joints like knees and hips
• Difficulty with daily tasks such as dressing or climbing stairs
• Reduced flexibility and muscle weakness
• Increased risk of falls due to balance problems

Causes

Main causes

• Osteoarthritis is caused by the breakdown of cartilage, the cushioning tissue at the ends of bones.
• Rheumatoid arthritis happens when the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing inflammation.
• Other types can be triggered by an infection, gout (uric acid crystals), or an injury.

Risk factors

• Increasing age
• Being female
• Family history of arthritis
• Obesity or overweight
• Previous joint injury
• Smoking (particularly for rheumatoid arthritis)
• Certain occupations that involve repetitive joint stress

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have a painful, red, swollen joint with a fever — seek same-day medical help
• If you cannot move a joint or put weight on it

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have joint pain, swelling, or stiffness that lasts more than a few weeks
• If symptoms interfere with daily activities, sleep, or your mood

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, examine your joints, and may order tests. There is no single test for arthritis; a combination of your history and test results leads to the diagnosis.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check for inflammation or specific antibodies
• X-rays to look for joint damage or cartilage loss
• Ultrasound or MRI scans to see soft tissues and joint details
• Joint fluid analysis (if the joint is swollen) to rule out infection or gout

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and daily activities, and may gently press on your joints. Be prepared to describe when the pain happens, any previous injuries, and your family history. Test results may take a few days, and you may be referred to a specialist for further assessment.

Treatment

Treatment aims to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, keep joints working, and prevent further damage. It usually includes a mix of self-care, exercise, physical therapy, and sometimes medication or other procedures.

Self-care at home

• Keep moving with low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or cycling
• Apply heat packs for stiffness and cold packs for swelling
• Rest painful joints and take breaks during the day
• Use assistive devices if recommended, such as a walking stick or jar opener
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on joints

Medical treatments

Medications can help reduce pain and inflammation. These are usually prescribed by a doctor, and some are available over the counter — always ask your pharmacist or doctor which option is right for you. Other treatments include corticosteroid injections into joints, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery such as joint replacement. Inflammatory arthritis may be managed with disease-modifying drugs, but these must be prescribed and monitored by a specialist.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is generally considered only when other treatments have not helped and pain significantly affects quality of life. Common procedures include joint replacement (for example, knee or hip) and repair of damaged tissue. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits with you.

Living with this condition

Living with arthritis can be challenging, but most people find ways to stay active and independent. Planning your day, taking breaks, and using helpful tools can make a big difference.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay active with activities you enjoy, like gardening, dancing, or swimming
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish
• Manage stress with relaxation techniques or breathing exercises
• Get enough sleep to help your body recover
• Stop smoking — smoking increases the risk of some types of arthritis

Diet and exercise

Regular exercise is one of the best ways to ease arthritis symptoms. It strengthens muscles around joints, improves flexibility, and helps with weight control. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week, but adjust to your own limits. Include both aerobic exercise and strength training. A healthy, varied diet supports overall health; there is no single 'arthritis diet', but eating well can help reduce inflammation.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with chronic pain can affect your mood, sleep, and confidence. Feelings of frustration, anxiety, or depression are common. Talking openly with your doctor, joining a support group, or seeking counselling can be helpful.

Prevention

Not always, because some causes are genetic. However, you can reduce the risk of osteoarthritis by maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, avoiding joint injuries, and not smoking. Early treatment of joint infections may also prevent long-term damage.

Complications

If left untreated

• Chronic pain that worsens over time
• Joint damage and deformity
• Reduced mobility and loss of independence
• In inflammatory types, damage to other organs if the condition is not controlled

Long-term outlook

There is no cure for most types of arthritis, but treatment can control symptoms and slow progression. Most people with arthritis lead active and fulfilling lives. Early diagnosis and a personalised management plan are the best ways to keep joints healthy.

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