Arthritis affects millions worldwide.
Some people suffer only occasional twinges of pain in their joints or have arthritis joint pain sporadically.
Others find that their pain is so severe and debilitating that it affects the quality of life.
The common kinds of pain include inflammation, swelling, pain and stiffness.
In some sufferers of arthritis, this may be accompanied by fever, particularly in cases of rheumatoid arthritis.
People often complain of morning stiffness, when they get up - the range of mobility of the affected joints is reduced.
Stiffness can cause its own problems - you may not be able to walk straight and may be advised to use a walking stick for additional support.
If the pain is more severe, you may have to use a walker at times during flare-ups.
Additionally, a patient with knee pain may find it difficult to get up from a sitting position, be unable to walk fast or run or be able to stand for long periods of time.
He or she may not be able to use staircases.
A patient with affected finger joints may find it hard to use the keyboard or even do simple chores like cutting foodstuffs, let alone playing the piano or guitar.
Arthritis can potentially affect any joints whether is the jaws, the shoulders, the elbows, wrists, fingers, hips and even toes.
Some people suffer from arthritis joint pain in only one type of joint, others have more diffused pain.
While the disease may be more common in older people, it can affect the very young as well.
Age, genetic factors, overweight, traumas and injuries as well as repetitive movements can predispose a person to arthritic disorders.
Unfortunately there is no cure as yet for this painful disease.
There are many remedies and pain management therapies which are available, and also traditional and alternative remedies, which have reported varying degrees of success.
People suffering from this ailment typically try a range of products and therapies to be able to lead a reasonably normal and pain free life.