Arthritis

Arthritis (from Greek arthro-, joint + -itis, inflammation) is a group of conditions that affect the health of the bone joints in the body. Arthritic diseases include rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, which are autoimmune diseases; septic arthritis, caused by joint infection; and the more common osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease. Arthritis can be caused from strains and injuries caused by repetitive motion, sports, overexertion, and falls. Unlike the autoimmune diseases, osteoarthritis largely affects older people and results from the degeneration of joint cartilage. Arthritis may also be caused by gout.

Arthritic joints can be sensitive to weather changes. The increased sensitivity is thought to be caused by the affected joints developing extra nerve endings in an attempt to protect the joint from further damage.

Types of Arthritis

Osteoarthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes the body's immune system to attack the bone joints. It is a disabling condition, and often thought of as a disease.

The synovium can become irritated and thickened with this condition, and sometimes it must be removed.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis...

External Links

• http://www.arthritis.org/conditions/DiseaseCenter/ra.asp
• arthritis.org
• Arthritis risk increased from auto accident injury

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