The most common medical condition causing arthritis at the joint is termed rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis affects the inner coating of the joint, called the synovium, and can result in the loss of the cartilage between the joints. The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not known.Other conditions that can cause loss of the cartilage include previous injuries and other medical conditions such as gout, psoriasis, or infection. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS. Arthritis may cause pain, loss of motion, swelling, and a joint that appears larger than normal.Also, especially in MP joint arthritis, the fingers can shift (See Figure 2). Pain in the joint is made worse by hard use of the hand in gripping and grasping activities.rthritis may cause pain, loss of motion, swelling, and a joint that appears larger than normal. Also, especially in MP joint arthritis, the fingers can shift (See Figure 2). Pain in the joint is made worse by hard use of the hand in gripping and grasping activities.