What is arthritis and what types are there?

Arthritis is not a single condition but a family of joint disorders causing pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion. The two most common types are osteoarthritis (degenerative, caused by cartilage breakdown) and rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune, involving chronic joint inflammation). Other forms include gout, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Accurate diagnosis determines appropriate treatment.

What complementary approaches help manage arthritis?

Acupuncture has consistent evidence for both osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis pain management. Massage reduces muscular tension around affected joints. Anti-inflammatory nutrition (omega-3 rich, reduced refined carbohydrates and alcohol) is relevant to both osteo and inflammatory subtypes. Exercise — of almost any appropriate type — is consistently the most evidence-supported intervention for arthritis of all types.

How does exercise help arthritis when joints are painful?

Movement maintains joint nutrition (cartilage has no blood supply and relies on synovial fluid movement), prevents deconditioning, reduces stiffness, and improves pain tolerance over time. The key is finding appropriate forms of exercise — low-impact options including swimming, cycling, yoga, and Pilates are well tolerated. Starting gently and building gradually, with guidance from a practitioner, is more effective than attempting high-intensity exercise through significant pain.

When does arthritis require urgent medical attention?

Acute severe joint pain — particularly in a single red, warm, swollen joint — may indicate septic arthritis or gout requiring prompt treatment. Systemic symptoms alongside joint pain (fever, rash, weight loss, fatigue) warrant investigation for inflammatory arthritis. If you have rheumatoid arthritis and experience a significant flare, contact your rheumatology team rather than waiting for a scheduled appointment.

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Arthritis

Arthritis encompasses over 100 conditions involving joint inflammation, pain, and stiffness — the most common being osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Anti-inflammatory nutrition, therapeutic movement, acupuncture,

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Reviewed by Dr. Ian Henderson · Microbiobial Health & Medicine26 March 2026Emerging evidence

Quick answer

Do any of these feel familiar?

Arthritis is most commonly experienced as joint pain, stiffness, and a gradual reduction in ease of movement
Many people notice their joints are most stiff and uncomfortable first thing in the morning or after long periods of rest, easing somewhat as they warm up with movement
Pain can range from a mild, persistent ache to sharp, debilitating pain during specific activities
Swelling, warmth, and a grating sensation in the joint are frequently described
Over time, many people find themselves modifying activities to accommodate the discomfort — which can lead to reduced fitness, isolation, and a growing gap between their desired and actual level of activity