Definition

Arthritis" literally means "inflamed joints." It is an umbrella term for more than 100 different forms of joint disease. However, while arthritis primarily affects the joints, it also attacks muscles and connective tissues surrounding organs. Arthritic disease stems from injuries, defects in the immune system, wear and tear on the joints, infections, or genetic predisposition. Whatever the cause, the effect is much the same in all individuals: Where bones meet in the joints, they are actually disintegrating