What causes arthritis? If you’ve ever experienced the painful swelling of your joints or vertebrae in your spine, you’ve surely asked this question. Arthritis is an uncomfortable swelling of the joints or vertebrae that can be accompanied by a stiffening and decrease in range of motion of a joint or multiple joints. Arthritis is a common, irritating medical condition that can seriously hamper your mobility or lifestyle if left untreated.

There are two main causes of arthritis: rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a malfunction of the immune system; essentially the white blood cells start collecting in the membrane that surround your joints, causing the membrane to thicken, stiffen and lose range of motion. Osteoarthritis is the damage of the cushiony part of the joint, leaving the bones to grind against one another in the joint socket. Both forms of arthritis are frustrating and painful.

There are several causes of arthritis. Infection can cause the debilitation of joint cushion, causing the acceleration of osteoarthritis. Injury to the joint can also exacerbate osteoarthritis. Overuse of a joint by repetitive sports or movement can bring on osteoarthritis. Malfunction of the white blood cells can bring on rheumatoid arthritis.

There are several risk factors associated with the onset of arthritis. Age is the most obvious risk factor, since the older you are, the more likely you are to have worn out the cushion in between your joints. Obesity is another factor, since the excess weight and pressure placed on the joints can accelerate the deterioration of the joint material. A family history of arthritis should act as a warning that you also may be more predisposed to developing arthritis, since your joints and your body functions are likely to be similar to your ancestors. Sex is also a factor to consider, since women appear to be a greater risk for developing rheumatoid arthritis, while men are more likely to develop gout.

In general, it’s a good idea to be careful with your joints, making sure to rest being sessions of intense exercise. You’ll want to use heat and cold to ease inflammation of your joints after overuse due to sports or activity. Cross-train when exercising to protect your joints, and look out for signs of repetitive motion injury.