The term arthritis covers a range of conditions that effect the joints and connective tissue, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis as well as axial spondyloarthritis, crystal arthritis (eg. gout) and psoriatic arthritis. Arthritis may also be a symptom of other conditions such as lupus. Arthritis UK (2025) estimate that in the UK over 10 million people live with osteoarthritis (OA) and 450k adults (with a recorded diagnosis) are living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis causes the joints to become stiff and sore, which creates problems moving a joint. It can affect any joint but is mostly found in knees, hips and hands. Symptoms may include: swelling, tenderness or a cracking sound when moving an affected joint.
Osteoarthritis is caused when the protective cartilage around bones in joints, starts to break down creating pain and swelling in an affected joint. Bony growths known as osteophytes develop as can an increase in fluid in the joint, these cause redness and swelling.
The reason for osteoarthritis is unknown but several factors may increase a person’s likelihood of developing it: joint injuries, another preexisting joint issue such a rheumatoid arthritis or gout, aging, weight, family history and gender (women are more likely to develop the condition).
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto-immune condition which creates pain, swelling, warmth, redness and stiffness in the joints. Our immune system usually protects us, however for those with an auto-immune condition such as rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks healthy tissue such as in joints and creates inflammation.
When the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, chemicals are released which damage the bones, cartilage, tendons and ligaments. Without treatment the joint will lose its shape and become misaliged.
It is not known what triggers the immune system to attack healthy tissue in the joints. However there some factors which may increase a person’s risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, family history (small risk), hormones as the condition is more common in women than in men, and being a smoker.
If you suspect you are developing or have developed arthritis of either type, it is advised that you see your doctor as soon as possible.
Sources:
Arthritis UK (2025) The State of Musculoskeletal Health 2025 Arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions in numbers. [Report]. Available at https://www.arthritis-uk.org/media/flpbvm2m/arthritisuk_state_of_msk_health_-report_2025.pdf
Arthritis UK (nd) What is Arthritis? Available at https://www.arthritis-uk.org/information-and-support/understanding-arthritis/conditions/arthritis/
NHS (2023)Overview Osteoarthritis .Available at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/o.steoarthritis
NHS (2023) Overview Rheumatoid Arthritis. Available at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/
Page created 28 April 2026.