It is the most common form of arthritis. It can affect both the larger and the smaller joints of the body, including the hands, feet, back, hip or knee. The disease is essentially one acquired from daily wear and tear of the joint; however, osteoarthritis can also occur as a result of injury. Risk factors for osteoarthritis include: prior joint trauma, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and joints is very helpful. Pain medications are widely required by individuals with osteoarthritis. For some patients, weight loss can reduce the stress on the joints.
There is no cure for either rheumatoid or osteoarthritis. Treatment options vary depending on the type of arthritis and include physical therapy, lifestyle changes (including exercise and weight control), orthopedic bracing, and medications. Joint replacement surgery may be required in eroding forms of arthritis. Medications can help reduce inflammation in the joint which decreases pain. Moreover, by decreasing inflammation, the joint damage may be slowed.
The difference between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis is that Osteoarthritis is a more common form of arthritis. It is a non-inflammatory form of arthritis and is usually diagnosed by an X-ray. Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory form of arthritis where the immune system attacks the joints and is often diagnosed by a blood test.
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