Osteoarthritis is a painful degeneration of the cartilage in the weight-bearing and frequently used joints. As far as researchers can tell, this kind of arthritis is typically brought on by genetics and wear and tear on the joints. It can also follow an injury to the joint. Osteoarthritis often affects older people and is the most common type of arthritis. Brief pain and stiffness at the beginning of the day are typical.
Morning stiffness lasting longer than an hour is very common.
RA affects women more than men, striking in their thirties and forties. Anklylosing spondylitis generally affects young men between the ages of 15 to 45 and is characterized by a stiff backbone, accompanied by low back pain. The goal is to reduce pain and improve joint mobility. Among those treatments, exercise is perhaps the most important, whether it be some form of stretching, isometrics, or simple endurance exercise. Exercise seems to provide both physical relief and psychological benefits.