What is the medical term for joint inflammation?

The medical term for joint inflammation is arthritis. This condition encompasses a variety of diseases and conditions affecting the joints, leading to symptoms such as pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. Arthritis can be caused by various factors, including autoimmune disorders (like rheumatoid arthritis), wear and tear over time (osteoarthritis), and other underlying medical conditions.

While osteoporosis refers to a decrease in bone density and an increased risk of fractures, gout specifically pertains to a type of arthritis caused by uric acid crystal buildup in the joints. Tendinitis, on the other hand, involves inflammation of the tendons, which connect muscles to bones. Since arthritis specifically denotes inflammation of the joints, it is the most appropriate and accurate term for this condition.