Arthritis is a general term for conditions that affect the joints and surrounding tissues. Joints are places in the body where bones come together, such as the knee, wrist, fingers, toes, and hips. The two most common types of arthritis are osteo arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteo arthritis is the most common form of arthritis. This is the form that usually comes with age and most often affects the fingers, knees, and hips. Rheumatoid arthritis happens when the body's own defense system doesn't work properly. It affects joints, bones, and organs--often the hands and feet. You may feel sick or tired, and you may have a fever.

Thankfully, there are a variety of treatments available for both forms of arthritis, including medications, therapy, and surgery.