1 At the ends of each of our chromosomes are sections of DNA called telomeres. 2  Telomeres protect the ends of the chromosomes during DNA replication by forming a cap, much like the plastic tip on a shoelace.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of finger arthritis. OA is also called degenerative joint disease because it is caused by wear and tear on your joints as you age. In OA, the protective tissues in your joints deteriorate with time allowing bare bone to rub on bone. This cause joint pain and swelling.
1 Rheumatoid arthritis (ra) is a form of arthritis that causes pain, swelling, stiffness and loss of function in your joints. 2  It can affect any joint but is common in the wrist and fingers. 3  More women than men get rheumatoid arthritis. 4  It often starts between ages 25 and 55.