Two major forms of arthritis exist: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis

Among older people, osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis.

According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, osteoarthritis affects the cartilage--the slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones in a joint. Healthy cartilage allows bones to glide over one another and absorbs energy from the shock of physical movement. In osteoarthritis, the surface layer of cartilage breaks down and wears away. This means the bones rub together, which causes pain, swelling, and loss of motion of the joint. Over time, the joint may lose its normal shape. People with osteoarthritis usually have joint pain and limited movement.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disease that causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of function in the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis generally occurs in a symmetrical pattern, meaning that if one knee or hand is involved, the other one is also. Rheumatoid arthritis often affects the wrist joints and the finger joints closest to the hand, and can affect all other parts of the body as well. Some people with rheumatoid arthritis may have fatigue, occasional fevers, and a general sense of not feeling well. For more information, please see National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

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