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Osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid? What's the Difference?

By Donna Stark

If your hands are in so much pain that opening jars have become difficult or if climbing stairs produces more pain in your knees than you have ever experienced, arthritis is often the first thing that comes to mind. But "arthritis" is more of a general term, and you need to find out exactly which type of arthritis you have. The two most common forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and to make matters as confusing as possible for us, they can cause similar aches and pains. Fortunately, there are a few key differences between them, and with the help of a medical professional an accurate diagnosis can be made.

What's the Difference?

Although osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis share similar symptoms by affecting the body's joints, they are two separate and distinct issues. Osteoarthritis is primarily a degenerative joint condition and is commonly referred to as "wear and tear" arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition. It is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can actually end up affecting more than just your joints. That's not very confusing, is it? Well, let's look at what is ... their shared symptoms.

  • Joint pain
  • Joint stiffness
  • Decreased range of motion
  • Swelling
  • Restricted mobility
  • Symptoms that are worse in the morning

Although it appears these two forms of arthritis are the same because they share common symptoms with each other, that is where the similarity ends. Once you know what to look for, it's easy to see where the differences are.

  • Rheumatoid arthritis can present symptoms of fever, fatigue, loss of energy, lack of appetite, and inflammation in other areas of the body, such as the eyes and lungs. Osteoarthritis does not.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis causes symmetrical joint swelling, especially in the smaller joints (both hands, both ankles, both feet). Osteoarthritis typically affects weight-bearing joints (back, hip, knee) as well as the neck and small finger joints.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis generally gets worse in the morning or after extended periods of inactivity. Osteoarthritis tends to get worse with activity throughout the day.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis can have a rapid onset, where the condition can worsen in a matter of weeks. Osteoarthritis generally develops and gradually worsens over a long period of time.

Living With Either One

There is currently no cure for either one, but there are ways to reduce the pain, manage the symptoms, and prevent further damage to the joints. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your joints, and suspect arthritis, it's important to see a medical professional as soon as you can, which you can do quite easily by visiting your local chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic. So come on in today and let's have a chat!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Marcos, Calif.

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