The condition is often confused with osteoarthritis, which develops as people get older and their joints become worn.

In the case of rheumatoid arthritis, however, immune cells start to attack the tissue that makes up joints, causing pain, stiffness and swelling.

Figures show that around a third of those who develop the condition will stop working within a year of its onset, due to the pain.

Given the prevalence of the condition in the UK, its financial impact on the economy is hefty, at up to £4.8 billion a year.

Source: | This article originally belongs to Express.co.uk