Types of Arthritis

There are three main types of arthritis causing joint pain: Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Post-Traumatic Arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is a disease which involves the breakdown of tissues that allow joints to move smoothly. This ‘wear and tear’ of the joints frequently results in pain, stiffness and reduced movement. It commonly occurs in weight bearing joints such as the hips and knees. Osteoarthritis most commonly develops between the ages of 45 to 90 years.¹

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a systematic disease because it can attack any or all joints in the body. It is the inflammation and degeneration of the joints. Rheumatoid Arthritis also results in pain, swelling, joint damage, stiffness and reduced joint movement.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis can develop if the bone and cartilage do not heal properly after an injury to a joint. When this happens the joint is no longer smooth and these irregularities lead to excessive wear on the joint surfaces.

¹ Arthritis Australia www.arthritisaustralia.com.au