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Arthritis Symptoms and Causes: Understanding Joint Pain, Stiffness and Inflammation

Arthritis is one of the most common causes of chronic pain and disability worldwide. It affects millions of people across age groups and significantly impacts mobility, independence and quality of life. Understanding arthritis symptoms and causes is essential for early detection, timely management and prevention of long-term joint damage.

In India, arthritis prevalence is increasing due to aging population, sedentary lifestyles and rising metabolic disorders.

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a broad term used to describe inflammation of one or more joints.

It is characterised by:

• joint pain

• stiffness

• swelling

• reduced range of motion

There are over 100 different types of arthritis, each with distinct causes and progression patterns.

 

Common Symptoms of Arthritis

Joint Pain

Pain is the most noticeable symptom.

It may:

• worsen with movement

• improve or worsen with rest

• vary in intensity

Pain often limits daily activities.

 

Joint Stiffness

Stiffness is especially noticeable:

• in the morning

• after periods of inactivity

Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes may indicate inflammatory arthritis.

 

Swelling and Inflammation

Affected joints may appear:

• swollen

• warm

• tender

Inflammation damages joint tissues over time.

 

Reduced Mobility

As arthritis progresses:

• joint flexibility decreases

• movement becomes painful

This affects walking, climbing stairs and gripping objects.

 

Joint Deformity

Advanced arthritis may cause:

• visible joint shape changes

• misalignment

• muscle wasting

Early care helps prevent deformity.

 

Types of Arthritis and Their Causes

Osteoarthritis

The most common form.

Caused by:

• wear and tear of joint cartilage

• aging

• repetitive joint stress

Knees, hips, spine and hands are commonly affected.

 

Rheumatoid Arthritis

An autoimmune condition.

The immune system:

• attacks joint lining

• causes chronic inflammation

It often affects multiple joints symmetrically.

 

Gout

A metabolic form of arthritis.

Caused by:

• high uric acid levels

• crystal deposition in joints

It commonly affects the big toe.

 

Psoriatic Arthritis

Associated with psoriasis.

It causes:

• joint inflammation

• skin and nail changes

Early diagnosis prevents joint damage.

 

Infectious Arthritis

Caused by:

• bacterial

• viral

• fungal infections

Prompt treatment is required to prevent permanent damage.

 

Major Causes of Arthritis

Aging

Joint cartilage naturally wears down with age.

ICMR data shows arthritis prevalence increases sharply after 50 years.

 

Obesity

Excess weight:

• increases joint load

• accelerates cartilage damage

Knee arthritis is strongly linked to obesity.

 

Genetics

Family history increases arthritis risk, especially autoimmune types.

 

Joint Injuries

Past injuries can lead to early-onset arthritis.

Sports injuries are a common trigger.

 

Autoimmune Disorders

Immune system dysfunction leads to chronic inflammation and joint damage.

 

Metabolic Disorders

Conditions like diabetes and high uric acid increase arthritis risk.

 

Lifestyle Factors That Worsen Arthritis

Contributing factors include:

• sedentary lifestyle

• poor posture

• lack of exercise

• smoking

These factors accelerate disease progression.

 

Arthritis in Younger Adults

Arthritis is no longer limited to older adults.

Younger individuals may develop arthritis due to:

• obesity

• autoimmune conditions

• repetitive strain

• injuries

Early recognition is critical.

 

How Arthritis Affects Daily Life

Arthritis can impact:

• work productivity

• sleep quality

• mental health

Chronic pain increases risk of anxiety and depression.

 

When Arthritis Symptoms Should Not Be Ignored

Seek medical attention if:

• joint pain lasts more than two weeks

• stiffness limits movement

• swelling is persistent

• pain interferes with daily tasks

Delayed care leads to irreversible damage.

 

Diagnosis of Arthritis

Diagnosis may include:

• physical examination

• blood tests

• imaging such as X-rays or MRI

• joint fluid analysis

Accurate diagnosis guides treatment.

 

Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early detection helps:

• slow disease progression

• reduce pain and inflammation

• preserve joint function

WHO emphasises early arthritis management for disability prevention.

 

Preventive Measures and Risk Reduction

While not all arthritis is preventable, risk can be reduced by:

• maintaining healthy weight

• regular low-impact exercise

• balanced nutrition

• avoiding joint overuse

Preventive care delays onset and progression.

 

Long-Term Outlook

With proper management:

• pain can be controlled

• mobility can be preserved

• quality of life can improve

Arthritis requires long-term care, not neglect.

 

Conclusion

Arthritis symptoms and causes vary widely, but joint pain, stiffness and inflammation are common warning signs that should not be ignored. Whether caused by aging, autoimmune disease, metabolic imbalance or injury, arthritis can significantly impact daily life if left untreated. Early diagnosis, lifestyle modification and appropriate medical care are key to slowing progression, preserving mobility and maintaining independence. Awareness is the first step toward healthier joints and long-term wellbeing.

 

References

• Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Health Reports

• National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Chronic Pain and Mobility Data

• World Health Organization (WHO) – Musculoskeletal Conditions and Arthritis Guidelines

• Lancet – Global Burden of Arthritis and Joint Disorders

• NITI Aayog – Aging Population and Joint Health Reports

• Statista – Arthritis Prevalence and Disability Trends