Arthritis is a common joint condition that involves inflammation of a joint. Two common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Let’s compare similarities and differences.
OSTEOARTHRITIS
Osteoarthritis is characterized by “wear and tear” of the cartilage on either end of the bone. Osteoarthritis typically affects individuals over 65 years old. Injury, overuse and genetic factors may speed up the process. With osteoarthritis, you might feel morning stiffness, pain that decreases with movement, swelling, and clicking or cracking within the joint itself.
RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that can affect the body, causing inflammation with possibly damage to joint cartilage and bone. Rheumatoid arthritis typically affects females around the ages of 30–60 years old. Although the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are similar to osteoarthritis, your pain and stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis generally does not improve with movement or exercises.
TIPS FOR TREATMENT
Arthritis can often be managed well with conservative therapy like specific exercises for the affected areas and self-care as well as manual therapy. If you are experiencing discomfort in your joints, or would like more information about arthritis, visit your family chiropractor.
References
- Arthritis facts. Arthritis Foundation website. Available at: http://www.arthritis.org/about-arthritis/understanding-arthritis/arthritis-statistics-facts.php.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Rheumatoid Arthritis website. Available at: https://www.rheumatoidarthritis.org/ra/.