A joint is the place in the body where two bones meet. Joints also are made up of tendons, ligaments, cartilage and fluid-filled sacs called bursae. These structures work in conjunction to allow the joints to move freely and without pain. Repetitive motion or abnormalities in any of these structures can cause conditions that result in joint pain and swelling.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the membrane that lines the joints, causing it to swell. Rheumatoid arthritis most commonly affects the finger and wrist joints but can occur anywhere on the body, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joint inflammation, joint pain and stiffness, fatigue, fever, and malaise. Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis consists of anti-inflammatory medications, pain medications and the occasional use of joint splints. In severe cases, surgery may be required to reduce inflammation and correct the joints.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is characterized by the gradual degeneration of the cartilage in the joints, according to Mayo Clinic. Cartilage provides cushion and support to the joints and when it wears away, the joint becomes irritated. This results in swelling, pain, tenderness, stiffness, loss of flexibility and bone spurs. The exact cause of osteoarthritis is unknown, but it is believed to develop due to a combination of factors, including increasing age, joint stress, muscle weakness, obesity and genetic factors. Osteoarthritis can't be cured, but a number of treatment options are available to help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Pain medications, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy and joint stress reduction are usually the most successful combination of treatment methods. If this treatment is ineffective, surgery to repair the cartilage or replace the joint may be needed.
Bursitis
Bursae are cavities in the joint that are filled with fluid and function as a cushion to allow the joints to move freely and without pain. Bursae are located either between a tendon and the skin or between a tendon and a bone. Bursitis is a condition that occurs when the bursae become inflamed. The inflammation can be caused by overuse due to repetitive movement, trauma, rheumatoid arthritis, gout or infections. Symptoms of bursitis include joint pain, swelling, tenderness and increased temperature in the affected joint. Bursitis is usually effectively treated with a combination of rest and anti-inflammatory and pain medications. If pain and swelling are severe, fluid may be drawn from the joint and anti-inflammatory medication may be injected directly into it, according to MedlinePlus.
