Which term describes the inflammation of joints?

The term that describes the inflammation of joints is arthritis. This condition involves pain, swelling, and stiffness in one or more joints and can affect individuals of all ages. Arthritis can be classified into various types, with the most common being osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, each having different causes and potential treatments. Understanding this condition is crucial for the management and care of patients suffering from joint pain and related issues.

In contrast, osteoporosis refers to a condition characterized by weakened bones that are more prone to fractures, rather than joint inflammation. Rheumatism is a more general term that may refer to various musculoskeletal disorders, but it does not specifically denote joint inflammation. Tendinitis, on the other hand, involves inflammation of the tendons, which connect muscles to bones, rather than the joints themselves. Thus, arthritis is the specific term that accurately identifies inflammation of the joints.