Search Health Information Arthritis is inflammation of one or
more joints, which results in pain, swelling, stiffness, and
limited movement. There are over 100 different types of
arthritis. See also: Joint pain Causes, incidence, and risk
factors: Arthritis involves the breakdown of cartilage.
Cartilage normally protects the joint, allowing for smooth
movement. Cartilage also absorbs shock when pressure is placed
on the joint, like when you walk. Without the usual amount of
cartilage, the bones rub together, causing pain, swelling
(inflammation), and stiffness. You may have joint inflammation
for a variety of reasons, including: - An autoimmune disease
(the body attacks itself because the immune system believes a
body part is foreign) - Broken bone - General "wear and tear" on
joints - Infection (usually caused by bacteria or viruses)
Often, the inflammation goes away after the injury has healed,
the disease is treated, or the infection has been cleared. With
some injuries and diseases, the inflammation does