Arthritis is an umbrella term used for over 100 medical conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system, specifically the joints (where two or more bones meet), and the surrounding tissues. Out of the 100 different types of arthritis, the two main ones are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage, the tissue that cushions the ends of the bones within the joints breaks own and wear away. In some cases, all the cartilage may wear away, therefore leaving the bones to rub against each other. On the other hand, Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that typically affects the small joints in the hands and feet. Unlike osteoarthritis it does not wear the cartilage, it affects the lining of the joints causing pain and swelling that can eventually result is bone erosion and joint deformity. It occurs when the immune system is fighting against bacteria and viruses and mistakenly attack body tissues, hence causing joint problems. It can occur at any age; however it is more likely to occur at the age of 40.
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