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Arthritis health centre

Arthritis overview

More than 9 million people have arthritis in the UK. There are more than 100 types of arthritis. Common arthritis symptoms of inflammation, pain, and stiffness are usually caused by degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis), and about 12% of people over 65 in the UK are affected by this condition. Other types of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis and gout. No matter which type of arthritis you have, you need an accurate diagnosis before your doctor can recommend treatment.

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Glucosamine may not fight osteoarthritis

Using a more sensitive measure of joint damage than in the past, researchers have found that the popular supplement glucosamine does not appear to slow the progression of knee osteoarthritis.

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Arthritis basics

What is arthritis?

There are over 100 types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. The word "arthritis" means "joint inflammation". Inflammation is one of the body's natural reactions to disease or injury, and includes swelling, pain and stiffness. Inflammation that lasts for a very long time or recurs, as in arthritis, can lead to tissue damage.

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Arthritis basics

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