Understanding Arthritis
What is arthritis?
While often referred to as a single disease, arthritis is actually an umbrella term used to describe a group of more than 100 medical conditions that affect nearly 46 million adults and 300,000 children in America alone. While the most common form of arthritis - osteoarthritis (OA) - is most prevalent in people over 60, arthritis in its various forms can start as early as infancy. Some forms affect people in their young adult years as they are beginning careers and families, while others start during the peak career and child-rearing years. Get the facts about arthritis.
What are the effects?
Arhtritis affects the musculoskeletal system, speifically the joints - where two or more bones meet. Arthritis-related joint problems include:
- pain
- stiffness
- inflammation
- damage to joint cartilege and surrounding structures
Learn more about the affects of the various forms of arthritis in the Disease Center and get answers to your questions about arthritis.
Arthritis Myths
Even though arthritis is one of the most common causes of disability, many misconceptions about this chronic condition persist.
- Dispel the most common arthritis myths.
- "It's not caused by cracking your knuckles." Read the USA Weekend interview about arthritis myths with Dr. Jack Klippel, the CEO of the Arthritis Foundation.
Learn More About Living with Arthritis
See more of the Foundation's programs and resources.
- Physical activity will help you feel better. Get started with the Life Improvement Series.
- Read the latest news about arthritis research.
- Discover how to manage your pain.
- Visit Arthritis Today, the Arthritis Foundation's consumer health magazine.
- Learn about the drugs used to treat arthritis.
- Curious about supplements? We can help.
Get Involved
- Connect with others who have arthritis.
- Become an advocate for those with arthritis.
- Get moving with Let's Move Together.
