Arthritis is a general term for conditions that cause pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. There are over 100 different types.

The most common types:

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the joint lining, causing swelling, stiffness, and potential deformity. It usually affects hands, feet and wrists symmetrically. There is no cure, but with early treatment using medication (DMARD's), it can reduce joint damage and help manage symptoms and prevent long-term disability. As well as joint pain, fatigue, low energy, fever and weight loss are common symptoms.

The condition also has different stages:

• Early stage – Synovium inflammation, causing pain and swelling, but there is no damage to the bone.
• Moderate stage - The inflammation damages the bones and cartilage, which leads to reduced range of motion and joint deformation.
• Severe stage – The destruction of the bone and cartilage resulting in significant joint deformation and pain, which can lead to joints fusing.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It is a chronic degenerative joint disease characterised by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone. It is also the leading cause of pain and disability in older adults. The most affected joints are the hips, hands, knees and the spine. Risk factors include age, genetic predisposition, obesity and joint injury. Osteoarthritis has no cure, unlike Rheumatoid arthritis, but focuses on relieving symptoms and improving joint function.

Treatment includes physical therapy, weight management, exercise and pain relief medication.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the deposition of crystals ( monosodium urate) in joints and surrounding tissues. This is due to elevated blood uric acid levels. Sudden, severe joint pain, often in the big toe and at night; other common areas include the ankles, elbows, fingers, and knees. To diagnose gout, joint fluid is analysed for urate crystals. Treatment includes diet modification, anti-inflammatory drugs, and urate–lowering therapy.