Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the cells lining your joints by mistake, often making joints swollen, stiff and painful. Over time this can damage the joints, cartilage and nearby bone.

Symptoms can include pain, stiffness and swelling in the joints.

Some may experience periods where symptoms become worse, known as flare ups.

Rheumatoid arthritis can be treated in a variety of ways including medications, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and on occasion surgery to correct any joint problems that develop. The primary aim of treatment is to relieve symptoms, reduce number of flare ups and slow the progress of the condition.

www.nhs.uk/conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/ 

www.arthritis.org/diseases/rheumatoid-arthritis 

www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/ 

www.rheumatology.org/Practice-Quality/Clinical-Support/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Rheumatoid-Arthritis