There are more than 100 different forms of arthritis and many different symptoms and treatments. We do not know what causes most forms of arthritis. Some forms are better understood than others. Arthritis causes pain and loss of movement. It can affect joints in any part of the body.
Arthritis is usually chronic, meaning it can occur over a long period of time.
The more serious forms can cause swelling, warmth, redness and pain. The three most common kinds of arthritis in older people are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Also known as degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in older people. Symptoms can range from stiffness and mild pain that comes and goes to severe joint pain and even disability. Early in the disease, pain occurs after activity and rest brings relief.