Today is World Arthritis Day

World Arthritis Day is celebrated today to create awareness of problems affecting people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs).

The day aims to encourage people with RMDs, their carers, families and common people to do something, support campaigns and make a difference in the quality of life of people with RMDs.

This year’s theme for World Arthritis Day 2017 is “It’s in your hands, take action”.

Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain and stiffness that can worsen with age.

There are different types of arthritis and each has different causes including wear and tear, infections and other diseases.

Symptoms of arthritis include pain, swelling, reduced range of motion and stiffness.

Medication, physiotherapy or sometimes surgery may help reduce symptoms of arthritis.