Arthritis is a group of conditions that cause pain, swelling or stiffness in one or more joints. It can affect people of any age and may make movement and everyday activities more difficult. The right treatment depends on the type of arthritis and how it affects the individual.
Common types
- Osteoarthritis, which develops when a joint changes over time and commonly affects the knees, hips, hands and spine
- Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the joints
- Gout, which can cause sudden episodes of severe pain, swelling and heat in a joint
- Psoriatic arthritis, which can affect people with psoriasis
- Axial spondyloarthritis, which mainly affects the spine and sacroiliac joints
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, which begins before the age of 16
Symptoms and diagnosis
Symptoms may include joint pain, swelling, warmth, stiffness and reduced movement. Some inflammatory forms can also cause tiredness or affect other parts of the body. A healthcare professional may examine the joints and arrange blood tests, imaging or a sample of joint fluid. No single test diagnoses every type of arthritis.
Treatment and daily management
There is no single treatment for all arthritis. Care may include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, pain relief, anti-inflammatory treatment, medicines that control immune activity, mobility aids or surgery. Early treatment of inflammatory arthritis can reduce the risk of permanent joint damage.
Regular activity can help maintain strength and movement. Low-impact exercise such as walking, swimming or cycling is often suitable, but activity should be adapted during a flare. A healthy weight can reduce strain on weight-bearing joints. Ask a clinician or physiotherapist for individual advice if pain limits exercise.
When to seek medical advice
Arrange an assessment for unexplained joint pain, swelling or stiffness that persists. Seek urgent medical care if one joint suddenly becomes severely painful, hot or swollen, especially with fever or feeling unwell, because a joint infection must be ruled out quickly.
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Reviewed: 28 August 2026