Signs and symptoms

Regardless of the type of arthritis, the common symptoms for all arthritis disorders include varied levels of pain, swelling, joint stiffness and sometimes a constant ache around the joint(s). Arthritic disorders like lupus and rheumatoid can also affect other organs in the body with a variety of symptoms.^[7]

• Inability to use the hand or walk
• Malaise and a feeling of tiredness
• Weight loss
• Poor sleep
• Muscle aches and pains
• Tenderness
• Difficulty moving the joint

It is common in advanced arthritis for significant secondary changes to occur. For example, in someone who has limited their physical activity:

• Muscle weakness
• Loss of flexibility
• Decreased aerobic fitness

These changes can also impact on life and social roles, such as community involvement.