Understanding Arthritis
Know about arthritis, symptoms, causes, risk factors, diagnosis, RA versus OA, treatment options and management and more.
Written by Dr. Md Yusuf Shareef
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 12th Sep, 2025
Introduction
Arthritis is often misunderstood as a single disease that simply causes achy joints in older adults. In reality, it's an umbrella term for over 100 different conditions that affect the joints, tissues around the joints, and other connective tissues. It's a leading cause of pain and disability worldwide, impacting people of all ages, sexes, and races. The common thread is inflammation, which can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling, and a decreased range of motion. This pervasive condition can transform simple daily tasks like opening a jar or walking up stairs into significant challenges. But a diagnosis of arthritis is not a life sentence of suffering. With modern medicine and effective management strategies, millions of people lead active, fulfilling lives.
What Exactly Is Arthritis?
At its core, arthritis means "inflammation of the joints." A joint is where two bones meet, and its primary function is to allow movement. To facilitate this smoothly, the ends of these bones are covered with a slippery tissue called cartilage, which acts as a shock absorber. The entire joint is enclosed in a capsule lined with a membrane (the synovium) that produces a thick fluid (synovial fluid) to lubricate the cartilage and nourish it.
Arthritis disrupts this elegant system. Depending on the type, it can cause:
- The breakdown of cartilage (as in osteoarthritis).
- The immune system attacks the synovium (as in rheumatoid arthritis).
- The formation of painful crystals within the joint (as in gout).
This disruption leads to the familiar symptoms of pain, swelling, and stiffness that characterise the condition.
The Anatomy of a Joint: Where Arthritis Strikes
Understanding the basic structure of a synovial joint (like knees, hips, and shoulders) is key to understanding arthritis. When the protective cartilage wears down or the synovium becomes inflamed, the bones can rub against each other. This bone-on-bone contact is a primary source of pain and can lead to further damage, including bone spurs and chronic inflammation.
The Two Most Common Types of Arthritis
While there are many forms, two types account for the vast majority of diagnoses: Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Osteoarthritis (OA): The "Wear-and-Tear" Arthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent form, often developing slowly with age as the cartilage gradually wears away. It’s degenerative and typically affects weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine, as well as the hands. Risk factors include joint injury, obesity (which places extra stress on joints), and repetitive stress from certain jobs or sports. It's often described as a "wear-and-tear" disease, but recent research shows it involves not just mechanical breakdown but also low-grade inflammatory processes throughout the joint.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): The Autoimmune Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the body's own immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, the lining of the membranes that surround the joints. This attack causes painful swelling that can eventually lead to bone erosion and joint deformity. Unlike OA, RA often affects joints symmetrically (both wrists, both knees, etc.) and is accompanied by systemic symptoms like fatigue, fever, and a general feeling of being unwell. Early diagnosis and treatment of RA are critical to prevent permanent joint damage.
OA vs. RA: A Quick Comparison Table
Recognising the Signs: Common Arthritis Symptoms
The symptoms of arthritis can vary depending on the type, but there are common warning signs. The most prevalent include:
- Joint Pain: Persistent pain that may be constant or come and go.
- Stiffness: Especially notable upon waking up in the morning or after a period of inactivity.
- Swelling: The skin around the joint may appear red, feel warm, and be tender to the touch.
- Decreased Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the joint through its full normal motion.
These symptoms of joint pain can range from mild to severe and may progress slowly or flare up unexpectedly.
Early Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
While some aches are normal, persistent symptoms warrant attention. Be mindful of:
- Pain or stiffness that lasts for more than two weeks.
- Severe pain that makes daily tasks difficult.
Symptoms that seem to be spreading to other joints.
- Pain accompanied by unexplained weight loss, fever, or weakness.
- If you experience these early signs of rheumatoid arthritis or persistent osteoarthritis symptoms, it's crucial to seek professional evaluation. If symptoms persist beyond two weeks, consult a doctor online with Apollo24|7 for further evaluation.
What Causes Arthritis? Unpacking the Risk Factors
The exact causes are diverse and often not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified.
Non-Modifiable Risk Factors (Age, Gender, Genetics)
- Age: The risk of most types of arthritis, especially OA, increases with age.
- Sex: Women are more likely to develop RA, while gout is more common in men.
- Genetics: Certain genes are associated with a higher risk of specific types of arthritis, like RA and lupus.
Modifiable Risk Factors (Weight, Injury, Infection)
- Weight: Excess weight puts significant stress on joints, particularly the knees, hips, and spine, accelerating the
breakdown of cartilage. - Joint Injuries: A damaged joint, even from an injury that happened years ago, can eventually develop osteoarthritis.
- Infection: Some microbial infections can trigger the development of reactive arthritis or affect joints in other ways.
- Occupation: Jobs that require repetitive knee bending or squatting are linked to higher rates of OA.
Getting a Diagnosis: How Doctors Identify Arthritis
Diagnosing arthritis involves a multi-step process to pinpoint the exact type and rule out other conditions.
The Physical Examination and Medical History
A doctor will check for swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness in the joints and assess your range of motion. They will ask detailed questions about your symptoms, their duration, and your family's medical history.
Laboratory Tests and Blood Work
- Blood tests can help identify specific antibodies and markers of inflammation. For example:
- Rheumatoid Factor (RF) and Anti-CCP Antibodies are common tests for RA.
- Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) and C-Reactive Protein (CRP) measure inflammation levels.
- Uric Acid levels are checked for suspected gout.
Apollo24|7 offers convenient home collection for tests like these, making the diagnostic process smoother.
Imaging Techniques: X-rays, MRI, and Ultrasound
- X-rays can show bone spurs, cartilage loss, and bone damage.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides detailed cross-sectional images of both hard and soft tissues, including cartilage, tendons, and ligaments.
- Ultrasound can visualise inflamed synovial tissue and guide needle placement for joint injections.
Living Well with Arthritis: Daily Management Strategies
Beyond medication, daily self-management is the cornerstone of living well with arthritis.
The Best Exercises for Arthritis Joint Pain
Contrary to instinct, movement is medicine for arthritis. Low-impact exercises strengthen the muscles around the joints, providing better support and reducing pain. Excellent choices include:
- Swimming and Water Aerobics: The buoyancy of water reduces stress on weight-bearing joints.
- Cycling: Stationary or outdoor biking is gentle on the knees and hips.
- Tai Chi and Yoga: These practices improve flexibility, balance, and range of motion through gentle, controlled movements. Finding the best exercise for knee osteoarthritis or hand arthritis can be transformative.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet for Arthritis
While no diet can cure arthritis, certain foods can help fight inflammation. An anti-inflammatory diet for arthritis emphasises:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), walnuts, and flaxseeds.
- Colourful Fruits and Vegetables: Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress.
- Whole Grains and Nuts.
- It's equally important to avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive red meat, which can promote inflammation.
Conclusion
Receiving an arthritis diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but it is the first step toward reclaiming your quality of life. While it is a chronic condition for many, it is also highly manageable. Understanding the type of arthritis you have, its triggers, and the vast array of treatment options empowers you to become an active participant in your care. From innovative medications and targeted physical therapy to simple daily choices like diet and exercise, you have more tools at your disposal than ever before. If your condition does not improve after trying these methods, book a physical visit to a doctor with Apollo24|7 to create a tailored management strategy. Take that first step today towards a less painful, more active tomorrow.
Consult a Specialist for Personalised Advice
Consult a Specialist for Personalised Advice
Dr. M N Amarnath
Orthopaedician
10 Years • MBBS,MS(Ortho, NIMS,Hyd) Fellowship in Shoulder and Elbow Surgery(Seoul, S.Korea) Fellowship in Arthroscopy and Sports Injury Fellowship in Joint Replacement Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
Hyderguda
Apollo Hospitals Hyderguda, Hyderguda
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Alla Pranay
Orthopaedician
9 Years • MBBS , M S ORTHOPAEDICS, FIJR(ROBOTIC AND JOINT REPLACEMENT),ARTHROSCOPIC AND SPORTS MEDICINE (SHOULDER,KNEE AND ANKLE)
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
(275+ Patients)
Dr. Anil Pradeep Jadhav
Orthopaedician
23 Years • MBBS MS (Ortho)
Nashik
Apollo Hospitals Nashik, Nashik
(25+ Patients)
Dr Masood Habib
Orthopaedician
19 Years • • M.S.(Ortho), •MRCS Edin, Fellowship Upper Limb Surgery(Shoulder Elbow, Wrist & Hand) IPD,RCS Edinburg UK •Fellowship Adult Knee Reconstruction & Sports Medicine,Diploma in Orthopaedics from European Board Of Orthopaedics & Traumatology - Fellow Of European Board of Orthopaedics and Trauma (FEBOT) • Fellow Royal college Of Surgeons, Edinburgh United Kingdom in Trauma & Orthopaedics (FRCS T&O)Edin,UK.
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(75+ Patients)
Dr. Arshi Raunaq Singh
Orthopaedician
7 Years • MBBS, M.S.(ORTHOPAEDICS), F.I.J.R
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
(75+ Patients)
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?
Osteoarthritis is primarily a degenerative 'wear-and-tear' disease that breaks down cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the lining of the joints (the synovium), causing inflammation and potential joint deformity.
2. Are there any natural remedies for joint pain that actually work?
Some natural approaches can complement medical treatment. These include applying heat (for stiffness) or cold (for acute swelling), practising mindfulness and meditation for pain coping, and incorporating anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric and ginger into your diet. Always discuss these with your doctor first.
3. Is cracking my knuckles going to give me arthritis?
No, extensive research has shown that the habit of cracking knuckles does not cause arthritis. The popping sound is caused by gas bubbles bursting in the synovial fluid, not by bones grinding.
4. What are the early signs of rheumatoid arthritis I should watch for?
Early signs include prolonged morning stiffness (lasting more than 30 minutes), fatigue, low-grade fever, and pain and swelling in smaller joints (like those in your hands and feet), often symmetrically.
5. Can changing my diet really help with gout symptoms?
Absolutely. Gout is directly linked to high levels of uric acid. Avoiding foods high in purines like red meat, organ meats, and certain seafood (sardines, scallops), as well as limiting alcohol and sugary drinks. It can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of gout attacks.