What type of joints does rheumatoid arthritis primarily attack?

Rheumatoid arthritis primarily targets small joints, particularly those in the hands and feet, such as the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints. This autoimmune condition leads to inflammation in the synovial membrane of the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. The disease may start in smaller joints before potentially progressing to larger joints, but its hallmark is the involvement of small joints, which can often lead to significant functional impairment if not managed properly. This characteristic helps clinicians differentiate rheumatoid arthritis from other arthritic conditions, which may more commonly affect larger or weight-bearing joints.