Arthritis, even mild cases can be painful and uncomfortable. It may hinder the mobility of a person and have adverse effects to one's health and well-being. The causes of this ailment is not clear but aging, joint injury, and genetics are partly blamed for the development of this condition. In addition to these factors, anything that can damage a joint in any way may cause arthritis. Injuries, infections, overactive immune systems, and wear and tear are common causes of arthritis. Individuals who workout too much or over-train have increased risk of developing this ailment. Certain occupations involving repetitive bending and squatting may increase the risks of developing arthritis.

Arthritis is a disease may cause painful swelling and inflammation of the joints and are experienced my millions of people around the world. In the United States alone, it is estimated that by 2030 there will be nearly 70 million affected by this disease. Cases of arthritis may be mild or severe, short-term or permanent. Medical researches suggest that there are more than 100 forms of arthritis but the most familiar form is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis takes place when the cartilage that supports the joints ear out, a process that occurs over a long period and is common among older people. Most people affected by this condition may experience pain, swelling, and stiffness, in the hip, knee, or hand.

Inflamed joints that hurt when in motion are some of the familiar signs and symptoms of arthritis. These joints may be stiff and can be aggravated by movements or activities like walking, writing, typing, and many more. Stiffness is most noticeable after extended periods of rest or after waking up in the morning. Individuals with arthritis may also encounter extreme fatigue, lack of energy, or weakness.

Other symptoms may include:

- Stiffness - People with arthritis may feel stiff and creaky for a short time until the joints get moving again. These individuals may also experience stiffness from sitting.

- Muscle weakness - The muscle around the joint, especially the knees may become weaker.

- Deformed joints - Joints may look enlarged and deformed.

- Cracking and creaking of the joints - The joints may make cracking and creaking sounds.

Presently, there are no available cure for arthritis but there are medications that may provide arthritis pain relief. Doctors often prescribe individuals with osteoarthritis, large doses of over-the counter pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen. Some prescription drugs like celecoxib, rofecoxib, and valdecoxib are shown to give effective pain relief. However, these drugs may bring minimal or serious side effects to individuals who use them. That is why arthritic individuals should seek the approval of doctors before taking medications for arthritis pain relief.

Many health experts believe that regular exercise and a healthy diet are powerful tools for arthritis. They recommend a combination of stretching, range-of-motion exercises, strength training, and aerobic exercises. Individuals who engage in these activities may develop joints that are stronger, more flexible, and more stable. As these things take place, arthritis pain may disappear and medications for arthritis pain relief can be lessened.