Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that occurs when the cartilage that cushions a joint becomes damaged or worn away. Cartilage acts as a smooth, protective surface that allows bones to glide easily during movement. As this cushioning breaks down, inflammation and friction develop, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling and reduced mobility.

At Novant Health, we understand that arthritis can affect far more than your joints. From difficulty lifting your arm or walking comfortably to disrupted sleep and loss of independence, arthritis can interfere with daily life.

Our specialists are here to help you understand your diagnosis, reduce uncertainty and guide you toward a personalized treatment plan that supports comfort, function and long-term joint health.

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A 3D model of a human body showing joints highlighted, indicating pain areas.

Joint anatomy

Joints such as the shoulder, hip, elbow and knee are designed to move smoothly and absorb stress. Each joint is lined with cartilage and surrounded by a capsule filled with synovial fluid, which reduces friction and nourishes the joint.

In healthy joints, cartilage and synovial fluid work together to provide pain-free motion. With arthritis, cartilage gradually thins or disappears, inflammation develops and, in advanced stages, bone may rub directly against bone. This process can significantly limit movement and increase pain over time.

Overview

Symptoms

You may notice:

Persistent joint pain that worsens with activity

Stiffness or reduced range of motion

Swelling or tenderness

Grinding, clicking or catching sensations

Pain that interferes with sleep or daily tasks

Morning stiffness that improves with movement

Causes

Arthritis may develop due to:

Age-related cartilage wear

Prior joint injuries or fractures

Repetitive strain or overuse

Previous joint surgery or trauma

Autoimmune conditions

Congenital or structural joint abnormalities

Understanding the cause of your arthritis helps our specialists tailor treatment to your specific needs.

Diagnosis

Our orthopedic specialists use a comprehensive, patient-centered approach that may include:

A detailed medical history and physical examination

Strength and range-of-motion testing

X-rays to evaluate joint space and bone changes

MRI or CT imaging to assess cartilage and surrounding structures

We explain your results clearly so you can make informed decisions about your care.

Why treatment matters

Many people find relief with non-surgical care, including activity modification, medications, injections and physical or occupational therapy to improve strength and mobility.

When symptoms become severe and conservative care is no longer effective, surgical options such as joint replacement or joint-preserving procedures may be recommended. Our team offers advanced surgical techniques and personalized rehabilitation plans to support recovery and a safe return to daily activities.

Arthritis by joint type

Shoulder arthritis

The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint formed by the upper arm bone and shoulder blade. Arthritis here often causes pain with reaching, lifting or overhead movement, as well as night pain that disrupts sleep.

Hip arthritis

Hip arthritis commonly affects walking, standing and balance. Pain may be felt in the groin, outer hip or thigh and can make everyday activities such as climbing stairs or getting out of a chair difficult.

Elbow arthritis

Elbow arthritis is less common but may occur after injury or repetitive use. Symptoms often include stiffness, swelling and pain with bending or straightening the arm, affecting tasks like lifting or gripping.

Knee arthritis

Knee arthritis is one of the most common forms and often leads to pain with walking, standing or prolonged activity. Swelling, stiffness and a feeling of instability can limit mobility and independence.

Common types of arthritis

The most common forms affecting these joints include:

Osteoarthritis: age-related wear and tear that gradually breaks down cartilage, potentially leading to bone spurs and reduced joint space
Rheumatoid arthritis: an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the joint lining, often affecting multiple joints on both sides of the body

A diagram showing a healthy knee joint on the left and a damaged knee joint on the right, highlighting wear.

Knee arthritis treatment options

Learn how arthritis of the knee can affect your daily life and explore treatment options so you can make informed, confident care decisions.

Videos in our patient education library are available to help you gain a general understanding of the condition or procedure. Read disclaimer.

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Take the next step

Our board-certified specialists are here to help you heal. They can often diagnose the problem in one visit and get you started with a personalized treatment plan. We offer a wide variety of treatment options.