Arthritis is a collective term for a broad group of diseases that affect the joints, muscles, tendons, bones, or connective tissue. These diseases fall under the medical field of rheumatology and are also known as musculoskeletal or rheumatic diseases. In Denmark, arthritis is the most widespread chronic disease, affecting more than 700,000 people – equivalent to about one in eight Danes.

There are more than 200 different types of arthritis, but the most well-known are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout (also called crystal arthritis), and various forms of spinal disorders. What these conditions have in common is that they typically cause pain, stiffness in the joints, fatigue, and reduced mobility, although the course and symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. Many associate arthritis with older adults, but both young people and children can also be affected by different forms of the disease. Arthritis can therefore have a major impact on quality of life and the ability to manage daily activities – regardless of age.