Arthritis is a chronic condition that involves inflammation of one or more joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It is not a single disease but an umbrella term for over 100 different types of joint-related disorders, the most common being osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis results from the wear and tear of cartilage, the tissue that cushions the ends of bones, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own joints. Symptoms of arthritis can vary from mild to severe and may worsen over time, significantly impacting a person’s quality of life. Although there is no cure for arthritis, treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes can help manage the symptoms and improve joint function.