Arthritis is a group of conditions that cause joint pain and inflammation. Over time, it can lead to immobility, causing difficulties for sleep, productivity, and activity levels. Most forms of arthritis primarily affect the smooth cartilage within your joints that prevents your bones from grating together.

Of the more than 100 forms of arthritis, these are the two most common:

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which your immune system attacks the tissues within your joints as if they were harmful to your health. It mostly affects the joints in your hands and feet, but it can also develop in your hips, knees, and elbows.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the gradual wear and tear damage that accumulates on the cartilage in your joints. When your bones start to rub together, you can develop painful bone spurs. This condition can affect any or all of your joints but is most severe in weight-bearing joints like your spine, hips, or knees.