RN Arthritis is a common term used for over 50 different joint diseases. Two of the more common forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis means inflammation of a joint.
Inflammation includes redness, warmth, swelling and pain.
Osteoarthritis, is when the joint wears out. There is also fluid to provide lubrication when the Joint moves. With osteoarthritis, the cartilage breaks down and the ends of the bones thicken. Pieces of cartilage and bone float in the joint space. At first, a dull ache maybe present with use of the joint.