Rheumatoid arthritis is the third most popular arthritis in the world whereas osteoarthritis is the most popular arthritis. Both the diseases give a lot of joint pain to millions of people around the globe. There are many similarities between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, including joint pain and inflammation. They have many things similar and many things different. It’s important to differentiate one disease from the other for the purposes of treatment, as available treatment options for OA are different from those for RA. In this article, we will discuss some differences between the two types of arthritis.

Joint Pain Isn’t The Same

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) usually shows symmetrical joint inflammation and is persistent for a long time. But, this might not be the case in the early stages of RA. However, Osteoarthritis (OA) usually shows up asymmetrically, meaning only 1 side of the body may be affected at times. A common OA symptom is morning stiffness in joints within minutes of waking up. Osteoarthritis occurs when the smooth cartilage joint surface wears out. Osteoarthritis usually begins in an isolated joint. But, Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, which means that the immune system malfunctions and attacks the body instead of intruders. In this case, it attacks the synovial membrane that encases and protects the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis often targets several joints at one time.

Again, RA is an autoimmune disorder, which means your body attacks itself. If you have RA, your body interprets the soft lining around your joints as a threat, similar to a virus or bacteria, and attacks it. But, OA, the most common form of arthritis, is a degenerative joint disorder. People with OA experience a breakdown of the cartilage that cushions their joints. The wearing down of cartilage causes the bones to rub against each other. This exposes small nerves, causing pain. No matter which type of arthritis it is, the pain is a common result. It is necessary to treat them within a specific time period. Capitol Pain Institute is a prominent organization with expertise in treating such pains.

Causes of RA and OA

Furthermore, both diseases have different causes. RA causes fluid to accumulate within your joint. This causes the thin layer of cells covering your joints to become sore and inflamed, releasing chemicals that damage nearby bones cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. On the other hand, OA is more likely to develop if you are overweight, have deformities or have diabetes. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in your joints gradually deteriorates. Cartilage is a firm, slippery tissue that permits nearly frictionless joint motion. In osteoarthritis, the slick surface of the cartilage becomes rough. Eventually, if the cartilage wears down completely, you may be left with bone rubbing on bone.

Symptoms of RA and OA

Some patients of RA say that fatigue was the first major symptom. Other symptoms of RA may include tender, warm, swollen joints, and other joint pain. In OA, some symptoms are similar to RA, but some are different. Some symptoms of OA are a loss of flexibility, grating and bone spur. If you experience any of the symptoms or chronic joint pain, you should seek medical assistance. One of the best places for treating these diseases is the Capitol Pain Institute in Austin. We have the most advanced equipment and specialists for treating such problems. Many highly qualified experts from Stanford and other popular universities unite here to find better ways to treat these diseases.

Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid are two different diseases of the same family. They both have different causes, different symptoms (some are same), and different treatments. It is very important to identify which type you are suffering from if at all. So, it is better to get expert assistance from us here at Capitol Pain today!  (512) 467-PAIN