Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are two different types of arthritis that can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
Osteoarthritis is a type of degenerative joint disease that is caused by the wear and tear of joint cartilage, which can lead to pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the joint. It is more common in older adults and is often a result of age-related changes in the joints, although it can also be caused by injury or overuse.
The signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis can vary from person to person, but some common ones include joint pain, stiffness, and difficulty in movement. The most common parts of the body affected by osteoarthritis are the knees, hips, and hands, although it can also affect the spine, shoulders, and ankles. Treatment options for osteoarthritis include both non-invasive and interventional approaches.
Non-invasive treatments include physical therapy, weight loss, and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation. Interventional pain treatment options include injections of steroids or hyaluronic acid into the affected joint, as well as joint replacement surgery in severe cases.
In addition to these treatment options, it is also important for individuals with osteoarthritis to incorporate certain types of exercise into their daily routine. Low-impact exercises such as swimming, biking, and water aerobics are especially helpful in relieving the stress on the joints and improving flexibility and strength.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints, which can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling. It typically affects multiple joints in a symmetrical pattern and can also cause fatigue and loss of function. Rheumatoid arthritis is treated with medications (such as NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)) and self-care measures (such as exercise and physical therapy).
Here are some sources that provide more information on these two types of arthritis:
Mayo Clinic: “Osteoarthritis”
Mayo Clinic: “Rheumatoid Arthritis”
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: “Osteoarthritis”
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: “Rheumatoid Arthritis”
