Literally speaking 'arthritis' in Latin means 'arthros' meaning 'inflammation' of the 'joint'. A joint is an important structure of the skeletal system formed where bone meets bone, e.g. the knee joint is formed where the thigh bone called femur meets the leg bone called tibia. The main function of the joint is to afford painless movement between the bones while also transmitting the load. For this, joints are engineered with precision. The ends of the bones are covered with a smooth glistening structure called cartilage that helps them withstand the weight of the body and helps provide smooth gliding movement.
Lubrication is provided by a special liquid called ' synovial fluid'.
This is secreted by the 'synovium' present on the inner aspect of the capsule enclosing the joint. Balance and stability are provided by 'ligaments' and 'muscles' crossing the joint. Muscles also provide the power to move the joint. Inflammation is a natural response of the body to any disease or damage. It is an attempt at healing effected by increase in blood circulation.