Arthritis - inflammation of the joints

Over eight million people in the UK have arthritis or a related condition. The word 'arthritis' simply means 'inflammation of the joints'. There are many different types of arthritis and it can affect anyone at any age.

However, commonly encountered forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid (inflammatory) arthritis and gouty arthritis. Osteoarthritis commonly affects larger joints like hips and knees while rheumatoid arthritis affects smaller joints e.g. in hands, although larger joints could also be affected.

The causes of arthritis are unknown but scientists suggest that three major factors play a central role in causing arthritis. These include the genetic factors you inherit from your parents, what happens to you during your life and how you live. The importance of these factors varies for every type of arthritis.