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Arthritis
updated
September 14, 2015


Unfortunately, one in every five Americans suffers from some form of arthritis. This chronic condition interferes with the lives of about 50 million people across the nation. At its most basic level, arthritis involves swelling in the joints-the word "arthritis" comes from the Greek words for "joint" and "inflammation." Arthritis refers to swelling, damage, deficiency, or infection in any component of the joint, which includes: the ligaments, connective tissue that holds the bones together, cartilage, which coats and protects the bones to prevent them from wearing away at each other, the synovial membrane, which covers the joint, and synovial fluid, the liquid produced by the membrane that provides nutrients to the joint. Arthritis can lead to stiffness, discomfort, mobility issues, and other unpleasant symptoms.

Arthritis is the number one cause of disability for patients over 55 years old.

Patients typically become more susceptible to arthritis as they age and their joints begin to deteriorate. In fact, arthritis is the number one cause of disability for patients over 55 years old. Women and overweight patients, as well as those with a family history of this disease or prior joint trauma, are also more prone to developing arthritis. Risk factors for this disorder also include family history, previous orthopedic injuries, immune system issues, and occupational strain.

Arthritis is such a broad and varied condition that there are actually more than 100 different types of this disease. Below, we describe the main three kinds of arthritis to help you better understand, prevent, identify, and treat this condition.

Osteoarthritis User Image - Blocked by "Display Image" Settings. Click to show.





 
 
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