Arthritis is a general term for inflammation of one or more joints, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion. The most common forms include osteoarthritis, which results from gradual wear and tear of joint cartilage, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks joint tissues. Other types, such as gout and psoriatic arthritis, involve metabolic or inflammatory processes. Symptoms may develop slowly or appear suddenly and often worsen with age or joint overuse. Risk factors include aging, obesity, prior joint injury, genetics, and certain infections. While there is no universal cure, treatment focuses on reducing pain and inflammation, preserving joint function, and improving quality of life through medications, physical therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and sometimes surgical intervention.