There are more than one hundred different types of arthritis. Osteoporosis and Rheumatoid Arthritis are the two most common types. While viral arthritis is one of the more unusual ones.

Any type of arthritis can be the result of a viral illness. In these cases the length of time one is affected is short. It's common to see someone with Hepatitis B or suffering from rubella experience viral arthritis.

Viruses affect the body in a couple of different ways. A virus can infect the joint directly simply by getting inside the synovium or lining. It can also invade the entire body and the immune system which can cause pain and swelling of the joints. In this scenario the joint is actually attacked by the immune system not the actual virus.

There are several causes of viral arthritis:
1. Measles, Rubella, German measles
2. HIV
3. Hepatitis B
4. Parvo Virus
5. Mumps
6. Vaccinations

Watch for joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. With some viral infections like Hepatitis B there may be other symptoms like nausea, jaundice, and abdominal pain.

There is really not a lot that can be done to prevent this type of arthritis. Even the vaccinations that prevent the diseases it is associated with can actually cause the infection.

Diagnosis usually involved a visit to the doctor, some blood tests, and a physical examination.

The good news is that unlike the other forms of arthritis this one is short lived and won't be bothering you for two long. While you are dealing with it you can expect to feel a bit like having the flu.

Within the US there are about 2.7 million people a year that suffer from viral arthritis and internationally it's not certain what the rate of infection is. You can see that this is but a little hick up in the world of arthritis so little time is actually spent addressing ways to control or reduce the risk of spreading. This form of arthritis is equivalent to the common cold.

Treatment is usually pain relievers that will help alleviate discomfort. If the joint inflammation becomes severe, aspiration of fluid from the affected joint may be used to help relieve pain.

Besides pain medications there are some simple tricks that can help you feel better. A hot bath or shower, a hot water bottle or heating pad, and ice on the swollen joint can all be beneficial.

You'll be feeling great again in no time. The viral arthritis won't be sticking around to long!