Osteoarthritis vs Rheumatoid Arthritis – What’s the Difference?

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis: Together, they are two of the most common forms of arthritis, but osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are not the same. They do share similar symptoms, however, so it is important to know the difference.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease. In RA patients, the body’s immune system attacks the body’s joints.

Rheumatoid arthritis always affects multiple joints and usually occurs symmetrically. This means if you have RA in your left knee, it is very likely that you have it in your right knee as well. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis also frequently appear suddenly due to its nature as an autoimmune disease.

Since it is an autoimmune disease, RA is often diagnosed using blood tests to identify antibodies and levels of inflammation, as well as through imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. In comparison, RA affects only one-tenth as many people as OA. Osteoarthritis is degenerative, which means it causes the cartilage around the bone to wear down. The space between joints decreases as the cartilage wears down, which causes bones to rub resulting in pain. Osteoarthritis is also not an autoimmune disease.

While OA can affect any joint, it most commonly affects the hips, knees and shoulders. Symptoms of osteoarthritis often begin in one joint but can gradually spread to the other side over time.

Doctors can diagnose osteoarthritis using several methods, including through a physical examination or detailed medical history.

Treatments for Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Osteoarthritis and RA are chronic illnesses with no cure and no way to reverse joint damage. Arthritis treatment is an option; however, the methods differ between OA and RA.

Medications used to treat OA include topical creams and anti-inflammatories like Advil or Motrin. Injections of steroids such as cortisone are commonly used to treat chronic pain. Physical therapy focused on strengthening the muscles around an affected joint is also a common arthritis treatment strategy.

Rheumatoid arthritis can be treated with over-the-counter medications, but patients may also be placed on anti-inflammatory steroids like prednisone. Advanced arthritis treatment options include IV infusion treatments, which aim to block the body’s immune system response and slow the disease.

Find a Center Near You for an Evaluation

Our nationwide network of doctors are experienced in diagnosing and treating arthritis and joint inflammation. Find a center near you so that you can get back to enjoying the things you love.