Autoimmune diseases are diseases where the immune system attacks the body. Dr Norman Swan explains which are the most common.
rheumatoid arthritis
Coxibs and arthritis pain and inflammation
COX-2 inhibitors (coxibs) are a type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). They can help relieve pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Arthritis types
There are many different types of arthritis, but the most common types are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout.
Arthritis and surgery: knee replacement
If you suffer from arthritis of the knee that remains painful despite treatment with medicines, exercise, rest and supports to assist your mobility, you may benefit from a knee replacement.
Joint: synovial
The hip, knee and shoulder joints are all synovial joints. View this diagram of the structure of a synovial joint.
Arthritis and the weather
Can changes in the weather affect your arthritis pain? Doctors are still sceptical but some people believe there is a link.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a type of chronic arthritis that affects joints such as the hands, fingers, wrists and knees, and affects joints on both sides of the body at the same time.