Arthritis is not a single disease; there are in fact, over 100 different types of arthritis. Generally speaking, however, when we say arthritis we are referring to joint paint or joint disease. It is characterized by painful inflammation and stiffness of the joints. The most common type of arthritis is called osteoarthritis, often thought of as wear-and-tear arthritis since it is a result of years of stress on the joints. Overtime, the cartilage at the end of the bones wears away, leaving the bones to rub directly against each other, which causes pain, stiffness, and swelling. There is also inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Inflammatory arthritis is the result of an immune system gone awry; the immune system attacks the joints with uncontrolled inflammation and causes joint erosion and other physical problems. Gout is another type of arthritis and is considered a metabolic issue. It is a result of too much uric acid in the system, which eventually builds up and attacks the joints.

What causes it? The cause or causes of arthritis vary depending on the type, but some possible causes are traumatic injury, abnormal metabolism, immune system dysfunction, bacterial and viral infections, certain medications, genetic makeup and even bowel disorders. People of all ages, races and gender can get arthritis. Different types of arthritis affect the joints differently, but most people with arthritis most commonly suffer from arthritic feet, hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, knees, ankles, the jaw and neck.

How is it prevented and treated? While there is no sure fire way to prevent arthritis entirely, you can do things to delay or reduce its effects such as maintain a healthy weight, exercise, refrain from smoking, eat a healthy diet, stay active while avoiding injuries, and stretch. Regarding treatment options, they are varied and numerous, but their objective is the same: to minimize pain and further damage to the affected joint or joints. These options include taking pain-reducing medications, physical and occupational therapy, using shin splints or other aids for the joints, and wearing proper arthritis footwear, whether walking arthritis shoes for men, men’s arthritis athletic shoes, men’s arthritis sandals, or other types of shoes for arthritic feet. For the best men’s shoes for arthritic feet, make sure they include orthotic insoles with ergonomic soles for proper anatomical support, excellent cushioning, and soft uppers.

• Other footwear:
• sneakers,
• casual shoes,
• sandals,
• slippers,
• boots.