Arthritis or Osteoarthritis? Discover the differences between the two
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- Oct 17
- 2 min read
Arthritis or Osteoarthritis? Discover the differences between the two
It’s very common to talk about osteoarthritis and arthritis as if they were the same, but the truth is that they are two different conditions. Here, we explain the main characteristics of each so you’ll never doubt again.
Arthritis is an inflammation that affects the synovial membrane. In this condition, the fluid that serves as lubrication spreads throughout the joint instead of being reabsorbed as it normally would, causing constant erosion of the bone and cartilage. This condition, which may or may not be chronic, is often the result of other diseases, and thus encompasses many related disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, infectious arthritis, or gout.
On the other hand, osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative process that affects the cartilage, which is the cushion between the bones in the joint that prevents them from rubbing against each other. Over time, the cartilage tends to wear away, causing the bones to rub directly against each other, resulting in significant pain and loss of joint flexibility.
During the physical examination, doctors will check the joints for swelling, redness, and temperature. They will also want to observe your ability to move them..
Similarities:
Symptoms: Both can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints.
Location: They can affect one or more joints in the body.
Prevalence: They are more common in women than in men.
Risk factors: Some common causes include genetic predisposition, obesity, and they may worsen over time.
Laboratory tests
The analysis of different types of body fluids can help identify the type of arthritis you have. Commonly analyzed fluids include blood, urine, and synovial fluid..
Imaging diagnosis
These types of tests can detect issues within the joint that may be causing the symptoms.
Radiografías: X-rays
Tomografía computarizada: CT scan (Computed Tomography)
Imágenes por resonancia magnética: MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
Ecografía: Ultrasound
Treatment
The treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and improving joint function. You may need to try different treatments or combinations of them before finding what works best for you.
Medications
Antiinflamatorios no esteroides: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Contrairritantes: Counterirritants
Esteroides: Steroids
Lifestyle
In many cases, symptoms can be reduced with the following measures:
Lose weight: Excess weight puts additional strain on the weight-bearing joints. Losing weight could increase movement and reduce future joint injuries.
Exercise: Regular exercise can help keep the joints flexible. Swimming and aquatic aerobic exercises can be good options, as the ability to float in the water reduces stress on the weight-bearing joints.
Heat and cold: Heat packs or ice packs may help relieve pain caused by arthritis.
Assistive devices: The use of canes, shoe insoles, walkers, raised toilet seats, and other assistive devices can help protect the joints and improve the ability to perform daily tasks.