ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

arthritis

Arthritis is a common health problem that causes pain, swelling and stiffness in your joints. It can affect people of any age, but it is most common in people over age 65. The word "arthritis" actually means "joint inflammation". Your joints are the places where two bones are connected, like your knees, hips, and elbows. When you have arthritis your joints become swollen and painful, making it difficult to move them. Arthritis can make it hard to do your everyday activities, like walking, climbing stairs and getting dressed. There are different kinds of arthritis, but the most common type is osteoarthritis, which usually affects older people. The best way to treat arthritis is to take medicine and do exercises that help keep your joints healthy.