Rheumatoid Arthritis vs. Osteoarthritis

Arthritis occurs when one or more of the body’s joints becomes inflamed. Arthritis can be caused by many issues, but the most common types of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Each type causes different symptoms and requires a different approach to treatment.  

Types of Arthritis

There are numerous types of arthritis. Some of the types include:

• Osteoarthritis – A degenerative condition in which the cartilage and other joint structures wear down, resulting in pain and inflammation. Most common in older people, obese people, and people who have untreated orthopedic injuries.
• Rheumatoid arthritis – A progressive autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks healthy tissue in the joints. Typically, the same joints on both sides of the body are affected. This condition has a significant genetic component.
• Gouty arthritis – Gout can cause arthritis. Gouty arthritis may occur with certain thyroid conditions, or more rarely as a result of a nutritional deficiency.
• Post-traumatic arthritis – Joint inflammation that occurs after a joint injury, such as a car accident or sports accident.
• Infectious arthritis – A rare condition in which a joint becomes infected. Sudden joint pain, fever, and joint warmth may all be noted. This is a serious condition requiring prompt intervention.

Osteoarthritis Treatment

Osteoarthritis treatment is focused on relieving inflammation and restoring joint function. Typically, the most minimally invasive treatments are the most preferable form of treatment. Common treatments include:

• Physical therapy – Relives inflammation and strengthens the muscles that support the joints. The exercises should be continued at home during and after the formal physical therapy ends.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – NSAIDs such as Aleve and Advil help bring down inflammation.
• Weight loss – For obese people, losing weight can reduce the stress on the joints. Losing as little as 10% of one’s body weight can help.
• Surgery – Surgery can be used to replace joints that have suffered severe damaged. Surgery can be either arthroscopic or open joint depending on which joint is affected and how much of the joint must be replaced.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment

Many treatments are common between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, because rheumatoid arthritis is a progressive, autoimmune condition, some different treatments are also employed. In addition to the treatments explored in the osteoarthritis section, rheumatoid arthritis treatment may also include:  

• Occupational therapy – Helps make changes to allow patients to perform activities such as cooking, dialing the phone, and personal hygiene
• Maintaining joint mobility – Preventing permanent loss of joint mobility is a primary concern. Stretching several times a day as outlined by the physical therapist is key. In addition, patients are instructed to make changes such as sleeping on one’s back on a flat, hard mattress with a low pillow.
• Autoimmune drugs – Some drugs specifically target the autoimmune response involved in rheumatoid arthritis. These drugs often have significant side effects, but may still be the best option.

Dr. Howard Marans is the top arthritis doctor in Orange County. Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about your rheumatoid arthritis treatment. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.