Arthritis causes inflammation, pain and stiffness in the joints. It can limit your mobility and quality of life.

Types of Arthritis

• Ankylosing spondylitis – Inflammation, pain and stiffness in the back, which can lead to a stooped posture
• Gout – Buildup of acid in the joints, often in the big toe
• Juvenile arthritis – An autoimmune disease that causes joint pain, swelling and fevers in adolescents
• Osteoarthritis – Breakdown of cartilage around the ends of your bones
• Psoriatic arthritis – Condition that develops in some people with psoriasis (scaly red and white skin patches)
• Reactive arthritis – Symptoms appear after an infection and usually clear up in a few weeks
• Rheumatoid arthritis – An autoimmune disorder that affects the lining around your joints

Causes, Risk Factors & Prevention

Arthritis is one of the most common causes of disability in adults.

Some risk factors for arthritis are out of your control. These include:

• Age – You’re more likely to develop arthritis as you get older.
• Gender – Most types of arthritis are more common in women, but men are more likely to develop gout.
• Genetics – Some genes can increase the risk of certain types of arthritis.

Fortunately, some risk factors are preventable. To lower your risk of developing arthritis, you should:

• Maintain a healthy weight to limit stress on your joints.
• Call a doctor if your joints are swollen, warm or red. You may need treatment for a joint infection.
• Take steps to prevent knee injuries.
• Ask your work supervisor or human resources department to make sure your job site is free of fall hazards and has the space, equipment and tools to help you do your job without injuring a joint.
• Stop smoking because cigarettes raise the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.

Arthritis in Texas

In Texas, 21% of adults had arthritis in 2021, according to the CDC. Among those, nearly 46% had work limitations due to the condition. About 31% reported no physical activity for leisure, although physical activity can reduce pain and improve physical and mental health.

University Health Resources

Arthritis care at University Health provides personalized treatments from specialists in autoimmune and inflammatory arthritis.

Fall prevention tips from University Health help you reduce the risk of falls, which are more likely in people with arthritis and can cause serious injuries.

Community Resources

Arthritis Foundation, San Antonio office offers support groups, a helpline, virtual events and opportunities to advocate for people with arthritis.