Osteoarthritis vs. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is a painful disorder that affects your hands, feet, and joints. Although we associate it  with old age, people at any age can get it, even professional athletes. Technically, osteoarthritis is a disorder causes the cartilage in joints to deteriorate. As the cartilage breaks down, the underlying bone is exposed and can develop rough growths – or spurs – that result in pain, swelling and stiffness. Quite often, osteoarthritis is  related to repetitive tasks, injury or other kinds of overuse.

Rheumatoid arthritis is another form of arthritis. It is an abnormality in the body’s immune system that affects synovium, a connective tissue that helps lubricate the joints. This form of arthritis damages the bone and cartilage. Over time, the joints may even become misshapen, causing pain and stiffness.