When it comes to joint problems, two names often pop up: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Yes, both trouble your joints and can lead to discomfort and pain, but they are not the same. They have different causes, symptoms, and treatments.

In this easy-to-understand guide, we'll help you figure out the differences between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. We'll highlight their unique traits and explain how to tell one from the other. By the end of this article, you'll have a clearer picture of these two common types of arthritis and how they affect the body.

Osteoarthritis, often referred to as "wear and tear" arthritis, is the most common form of arthritis. It primarily affects the joints, causing the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones to wear down over time. As a degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis tends to develop gradually and is commonly associated with aging. However, it can also occur as a result of joint injury or excessive stress on the joints.

The exact cause of osteoarthritis is still not fully understood. However, certain risk factors contribute to its development. These include:

• Aging: As we age, the cartilage in our joints naturally deteriorates, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts additional stress on the joints, particularly in the hips, knees, and feet, leading to a higher likelihood of developing osteoarthritis.
• Joint Injury: Previous joint injuries, such as fractures or ligament tears, can contribute to the development of osteoarthritis later in life.
• Genetics: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to osteoarthritis, making them more susceptible to the condition.
• Gender: Women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis than men.

• Joint pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.
• Stiffness in the affected joints, especially after periods of inactivity.
• Swelling and tenderness around the joints.
• A grating sensation when moving the joint.
• Limited range of motion.

Read next: 5 Common Mistakes That Lead to Wear and Tear Arthritis

In contrast to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder characterized by chronic inflammation in the joints. Unlike wear and tear arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis can affect people of any age, including children, and is more prevalent in women than in men.

The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown. However, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, a thin layer of tissue that lines the joints, causing inflammation. Over time, this inflammation can lead to damage and erosion of the joint cartilage and bone.

• Joint pain and swelling that are symmetrical (occur in the same joints on both sides of the body).
• Morning stiffness that lasts for more than an hour.
• Fatigue and general malaise.
• Rheumatoid nodules (small lumps under the skin).
• Joint deformity over time.

Comparing osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in terms of severity is challenging, as their progression and impact can differ. RA is more difficult to predict, while OA tends to have more predictable symptoms limited to the affected joints.

Nevertheless, OA can still be debilitating. Both conditions cause disability and loss of function, but RA has treatments that can slow down the disease and achieve remission. In contrast, OA progresses over time and may require surgery in the future.

Remission in RA refers to a period of few or no symptoms.

Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are two common types of arthritis, yet their treatment approaches differ significantly due to the nature of the diseases.

Currently, there is no cure for OA. The focus of treatment is to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life. Treatment may include:

1. Increasing physical activity: Regular exercise can help keep joints flexible and strengthen the muscles that support the joints.
2. Physical therapy: Specific exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the affected joint and improve the range of motion.
3. Weight loss: Carrying extra weight puts additional stress on weight-bearing joints, worsening OA symptoms.
4. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers and prescription drugs can help manage pain and inflammation.
5. Supportive devices: Crutches, canes, or braces can provide support and relieve pressure on the joints.
6. Surgery: If other treatment options do not provide relief, surgical procedures like joint replacement or arthroscopy may be considered.

RA is a chronic autoimmune condition without a cure. However, treatments can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression. Treatment may include:

1. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): These medications can slow the progression of RA and save the joints and other tissues from permanent damage.
2. Surgery: If medications fail to prevent or slow joint damage, surgery may be considered to repair damaged joints. This can restore your ability to use the joint, reduce pain, and improve function. Surgeries could involve:

•  Synovectomy: Removes the inflamed joint lining (synovium) to reduce pain and improve flexibility.
• Tendon repair: Fixes loosened or ruptured tendons around the joint caused by inflammation and joint damage.
• Joint fusion: Stabilizes or realigns a joint, providing pain relief when joint replacement isn't an option.
• Total joint replacement: This involves removing damaged parts of the joint and inserting a prosthesis made of metal and plastic.

Both OA and RA require a personalized treatment plan, which should be developed in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) typically exhibits symmetrical symptoms, where patients experience pain in the same joints on both sides of the body, commonly in the feet and hands. On the other hand, osteoarthritis (OA) usually starts in a single joint, such as the knee, fingers, hands, spine, or hips. Although both sides may be affected, one side tends to be more painful than the other.