Arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues in your body. In rheumatoid arthritis, your immune system attacks the joints—usually the small ones in the hands and feet—causing inflammation and pain. The inflammation sometimes affects organs, such as the eyes, lungs, and heart.Schedule an AppointmentBrowse our specialists and get the care you need.Several different tissues are involved in a joint’s function. A joint is the place where two bones meet to enable movement. Each one is contained in a capsule that produces synovial fluid, which lubricates the joint, helping it to move smoothly. Cartilage, which covers the surface of a bone at a joint, serves as a cushion to ensure the bones don’t rub against each other. The muscles, tendons, and ligaments surrounding the joint provide support and control movement.When immune system cells attack the joints, they damage the thin layer of cartilage that covers each bone on both sides of the jo...
