It’s commonly known that arthritis is the inflammation and pain of the joints. However, different types of arthritis, like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, are often confused. These types of arthritis are completely different, and it’s important to know the difference in your joint health. Let’s take a look at osteoarthritis versus rheumatoid arthritis so you can better understand your joint health.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is actually an autoimmune disease that causes a unique form of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is caused when your body’s immune system targets and attacks your own tissue and connective joints. This leads to the degeneration of tissue, and the lack of tissue leads to irritation of the joint. Joints affected with rheumatoid arthritis can become swollen and deformed over time.
Rheumatoid arthritis can also affect other parts of the body, like the skin, lungs, eyes, blood vessels, and even the heart. Modern advancements have greatly increased the ways we can treat rheumatoid arthritis. However, the condition is chronic and severe cases can be debilitating.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is what most people think of when arthritis comes to mind. It is the most common form of arthritis and affects millions of people every year. Osteoarthritis occurs as the joint naturally wears and tears over time. There is protective cartilage that acts as a cushion between most joints.
Over time that protective cartilage can wear down and become thin. This leads to your bones moving and grinding in unintentional ways and leading to inflammation. Osteoarthritis is chronic, but things like losing weight, staying active, and certain procedures can make slow the condition and make life easier.
Seeking Treatment For Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. That’s why Dr. John Moore IV, with the Pinehurst Surgical Orthopaedic & Joint Replacement Center, provides treatment options for osteoarthritis. Dr. Moore has been providing his community with orthopaedic care for over 15 years and wants to offer his experience and expertise to your joint health. No one’s joint situation is the same, and Dr. Moore will evaluate each patient and provide treatment that caters to their needs and joint health goals. Trust results and personalized care and contact Dr. Moore’s office at 910-295-0224 today.
