When we hear the word arthritis, we tend to think of an older person, someone suffering from the wear-and-tear of the aging process. However, 2 out of 3 people suffering from some form of arthritis pain are under the age of 65. And while the word arthritis means literally "inflammation of the joints," the inflammation from arthritis can occur for different reasons. Arthritis can also manifest in different ways
in people of all different ages. Even children can develop arthritis.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, and it usually affects those over the age of 45. Cartilage in joints gradually wears away over time as a result of repeated use of the joint. Those once-fluid joints just don't glide as well as they used to. The ends of bones rub together, resulting in pain and stiffness.
Rheumatoid arthritis sufferers may feel similar symptoms to those with osteoarthritis. However, the causes of rheumatoid arthritis are different. Whereas osteoarthritis is more of a mechanical process of joint erosion, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. The body's immune system attacks the joints' tissues and causes long-term damage.
Read more about the types of arthritis and how they are diagnosed, as well as the symptoms, options for treatment, and how to keep a full, active lifestyle.