preventing arthritis

Overview

Arthritis is a condition that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in your joints. It is not a single disease but a word used for many different types of joint problems. The two most common types are osteoarthritis, which happens when the protective tissue at the ends of bones wears down over time, and rheumatoid arthritis, which happens when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the joints. This article focuses on ways to reduce your chance of developing arthritis and to keep your joints healthy.

Yes. Arthritis affects millions of people worldwide. Osteoarthritis becomes more common with age, but it is not a normal or unavoidable part of growing older. Many people with arthritis continue to live active lives.

Arthritis can affect people of all ages, including children, but it becomes more common as people get older. Women are more likely to develop some types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis. You may also have a higher risk if you have a family history of arthritis, have had joint injuries, or carry extra weight.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain, swelling, or stiffness in one or more joints
• Joints that feel warm or look red
• Difficulty moving a joint normally
• Pain that is worse after rest or overuse
• Tenderness when pressing on a joint

Symptoms in children

• A limp or trouble using an arm or leg
• A swollen joint
• Morning stiffness that goes away after moving
• Being less willing to run, jump, or play

Symptoms in older adults

• Pain and stiffness in the knees, hips, hands, or back
• Morning stiffness that may last a few minutes to half an hour
• Pain that flares up and then eases
• Difficulty with daily tasks like opening jars, climbing stairs, or bending down

Causes

Main causes

• Osteoarthritis often results from normal wear and tear on joints over years, past joint injuries, and extra body weight.
• Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the body's immune system attacks the lining of the joints.
• Some other types of arthritis are triggered by infections or by a build-up of crystals in the joint, such as gout.

Risk factors

• Age — risk increases as you get older
• Being a woman — many forms are more common in women
• Family history
• Extra body weight
• Past joint injury or repeated joint overuse from work or sport
• Smoking — linked to rheumatoid arthritis
• Certain infections

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• A joint is hot, red, or very swollen, especially with a fever — seek care the same day
• You have severe pain after an injury and cannot use the joint

Book a routine appointment if:

• Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling that lasts more than three weeks
• Symptoms that are getting in the way of everyday activities
• Concerns about your risk of arthritis

Diagnosis

A doctor will talk with you about your symptoms and examine your joints. They may ask about your family history, work, and daily activities. There is no single test for most types of arthritis. The diagnosis is based on your history, a physical exam, and sometimes tests.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to look for inflammation or specific antibodies
• Joint fluid tests to check for crystals or infection
• X-rays to look at joint damage and bone changes
• Ultrasound or MRI scans for a closer look at soft tissues and cartilage

What to expect at your appointment

It can take time to learn which type of arthritis you have, but this is normal. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist called a rheumatologist. In the meantime, gentle movement and simple comfort measures can help.

Treatment

Treatment for arthritis aims to reduce pain, improve movement, and keep you doing what you enjoy. Most treatment plans combine lifestyle changes, physical activity, and support from a healthcare team. Some people with inflammatory arthritis need medicines to calm the immune system — your doctor can explain the best options for you.

Self-care at home

• Keep moving with gentle exercise like walking, swimming, or stretching
• Use heat pads or warm baths to ease stiffness
• Use cold packs for swollen joints
• Rest a painful joint without staying still too long
• Use assistive tools such as jar openers or shoe horns
• Protect your joints by pacing activities through the day

Medical treatments

Many different medicines and therapies are used for arthritis. Some are applied to the skin, others are taken by mouth, and some are given as injections. There are also treatments that help the immune system behave more calmly. A doctor or pharmacist can tell you about the options that are suitable for your situation. Physical therapy and occupational therapy are also very helpful.

When is surgery considered?

If arthritis has severely damaged a joint and other treatments have not helped, a doctor may talk with you about surgery. Joint replacement is a common and successful operation for hips and knees. The decision is always made together with your healthcare team.

Living with this condition

Living with arthritis is about finding a rhythm that works for you. Some days are easier than others. Listen to your body, pace yourself, and prioritise the activities that matter most. This can help you stay in control of your day.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep a healthy weight to lighten the load on your joints
• If you smoke, ask your healthcare team for help to quit
• Protect your joints with good posture and lifting techniques
• Find shoes that support your feet well
• Build short periods of rest into your day
• Stay socially connected — it is good for your mood and motivation

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and healthy fats helps support your overall health. Some people find that certain foods affect their symptoms, but no single food prevents or cures arthritis. Exercise is one of the best things you can do — it strengthens the muscles around your joints and eases stiffness. Try moderate activities like brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or chair exercises. A physiotherapist can design a safe plan for you.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with pain can be stressful and tiring. It is normal to feel frustrated, sad, or worried at times. Your emotional health is just as important as your physical health. If you are struggling, talk to your doctor or a friend. You can also be referred for talking support to help you manage difficult feelings.

Prevention

You cannot prevent every type of arthritis, but many cases of osteoarthritis can be avoided or delayed. The best steps are to keep a healthy weight, stay physically active, protect your joints from injury, and not smoke. A healthy lifestyle also gives you more energy and better mood.

Vaccines

Some infections can trigger arthritis. Keeping your vaccines up to date — like flu, COVID-19, and pneumonia — can help protect you from illnesses that might affect your joints. Ask your doctor which vaccines are recommended for you.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for arthritis in people without symptoms. If you have joint symptoms that last more than a few weeks, see a doctor for a check-up. The earlier you get help, the better.

Complications

If left untreated

• Untreated inflammatory arthritis can cause lasting joint damage
• Severe joint pain can lead to being less active, which raises the risk of weight gain and other health problems
• Long-term pain can affect sleep, work, and relationships
• In some types of arthritis, inflammation can affect the heart, lungs, or eyes — which is why early treatment matters

Long-term outlook

The outlook for arthritis has improved greatly in recent years. Many people with arthritis manage their symptoms well and remain active. With the right support, you can keep doing the things you love — sometimes with small adjustments. It is rarely too late to start protecting your joints and improving your health.

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