Arthritis or joint pains are a common problem in the society effecting 30-40% of the population. Thankfully more than 95% of them are mild & self limiting

Only 1-5% of all joint pains actually have a serious underlying disorder

Age related erosion of joints with drying of joint lubricating fluids is called Osteoarthritis, the most common arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is the second most common cause of serious arthritis (1-5% prevalence)

Arthritis are most commonly auto-immune disorders (when our immune system which are the defense of our body starts acting naughty, and starts to destroy our own joints)

Many arthritis tends to run in families

Diet restriction is a myth in managing arthritis except for Gout

Early treatment can prevent permanent joint damage and delay need for surgery in majority of the patients

Aim of treatment is to make person pain free and give him/her independence to have a normal quality of life

Treatment may last from months to years depending on the cause

Reactive arthritis treatment usually lasts a few weeks

Infective causes of arthritis is relatively more common in the developing world and tropical countries like India

Physiotherapy, regular exercises & strong self motivation have a major role in treatment & improving long term outcomes