About Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Diseases Arthritis, itself a group of more than 100 different diseases, is one category of rheumatic diseases. Arthritis Arthritis and other rheumatic diseases are characterized by pain, swelling, and limited movement in joints and connective tissues in the body. Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Diseases Statistics Rheumatic diseases are the leading cause of disability among people ages 65 and older. Arthritis Diagnosis Diagnosing arthritis and other rheumatic diseases is often difficult, as many symptoms are similar among the different diseases. Anatomy of a Joint Joints are the areas where two or more bones meet. Most joints are mobile, allowing the bones to move. Understanding Joint Pain Sprained ankles and wrists, arthritic knees and hips and torn rotator cuffs all have one thing in common: They result in joint pain. Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is a chronic, degenerative, joint disease that affects mostly middle-aged and older adults. How to Manage Your Osteoarthritis Taking arthritis medication is important, but what you do for yourself, including exercising, doing relaxation exercises and managing your emotions and attitudes, is just as crucial to your ability to lead an active, productive life. Peripheral Vascular Disease Detailed information on peripheral vascular disease, including symptoms, diagnostic, and treatment information Gout Gout is marked by inflamed, painful joints because of the formation of crystal deposits in them.