Osteoarthritis vs. Rheumatoid Arthritis: What is the Difference?

Arthritis is a painful disease that causes swelling, stiffness, and joint pain. Of the millions affected by arthritis, many also experience limited movement in the affected joint, which progresses. 

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common types and are often confused because they are very similar at onset. However, it is vital to differentiate and select the right treatments to alleviate symptoms. Here are some key differences between these two common forms of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It damages the cartilage within joints, which is designed to protect the bones from rubbing together. When it becomes damaged or starts to deteriorate, the bones rub together, causing significant pain and leading to worsening joint deterioration over time.

Studies are ongoing about the cause and treatment of osteoarthritis, but many physicians claim a variety of events can cause it, and is most common in adults over 50 years old. The most common symptoms include inflammation, restricted movement, and joint pain. Daily exercise, supportive care, and anti-inflammatories are recommended to help reduce symptoms at the early stages.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

While osteoarthritis affects the cartilage within the joint, rheumatoid arthritis affects the entire joint and is most commonly seen in hands. The symptoms also vary. The critical difference is rheumatoid arthritis pain is highest in the morning and fades throughout the day. Unfortunately, this often makes diagnosing difficult because most people brush it off as ‘just being stiff.’

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms can include inflammation, redness, and stiffness. This is also common to see in numerous joints. In later stages, this form of arthritis can cause joint deformities and skin roughness. This is the most common stage for diagnosis, as it is distinctly different from osteoarthritis progression.

Rheumatoid v. Osteoarthritis

The primary difference between these two forms of arthritis is the cause. Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear on the joints, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the joints. Supportive therapy, wraps, and anti-inflammatories can help individuals suffering from both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. 

Here are some other key differentiators: 

Rheumatoid and osteoarthritis are the most common forms of arthritis, but there are other types. If you are experiencing joint pain or stiffness, visit your doctor. Early diagnosis can help with your prognosis and reduce discomfort and long-term joint damage.