Sometimes called wear and tear arthritis, osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis. When the smooth cushion between bones (cartilage) breaks down, joints can get painful, swollen, and hard to move. OA can affect any joint, but it occurs most often in the hands, knees, hips, lower back,

Almost all people with ankylosing spondylitis can expect to lead normal and productive lives. Despite the chronic nature of the illness, only a few people with ankylosing spondylitis will become severely disabled. But if left untreated, chronic inflammation can ultimately cause the vertebrae in your spine to fuse together. You