What is the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition caused by cartilage breakdown, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the joint lining. OA tends to affect one side more and worsens with use; RA is often symmetric and worse in the morning.

Can exercise make osteoarthritis worse?

Appropriate exercise actually helps osteoarthritis by strengthening muscles around joints, improving flexibility, and reducing pain. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and cycling are recommended. High-impact activities should be avoided.

When is joint replacement surgery needed?

Joint replacement is typically considered when osteoarthritis pain is severe, significantly limits daily activities, and no longer responds adequately to conservative treatments. Most knee and hip replacements last 15–20+ years and dramatically improve quality of life.

MusculoskeletalICD-10: M15-M19Over 32.5 million adults in the United States; most common joint disease worldwide

Osteoarthritis

Also known as: OA, Degenerative Joint Disease, Wear-and-Tear Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, caused by the progressive breakdown of cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in joints. It most frequently affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While it is often associated with aging, osteoarthritis is a complex disease influenced by genetics, joint injury, obesity, and mechanical stress.

Symptoms

Joint pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest

Morning stiffness lasting less than 30 minutes

Reduced range of motion in affected joints

Grating or crunching sensation (crepitus) during movement

Swelling around the joint

Bony enlargements (Heberden's and Bouchard's nodes in finger joints)

Joint instability or buckling

Causes

Progressive cartilage degradation from mechanical and biological factors
Aging and cumulative joint stress over time
Previous joint injury (fracture, ligament tear, meniscus injury)
Genetic predisposition
Abnormal joint mechanics or alignment

Risk Factors

Age over 50
Obesity (excess weight stresses weight-bearing joints)
Female sex (more common after menopause)
History of joint injury or surgery
Occupations with repetitive joint stress
Family history of osteoarthritis

Diagnosis

Clinical examination of joint tenderness, range of motion, and crepitus
X-rays showing joint space narrowing, osteophytes, and subchondral sclerosis
MRI for early detection or to assess cartilage, menisci, and ligaments
Blood tests mainly to rule out other types of arthritis (rheumatoid, gout)

Treatment

Regular low-impact exercise (walking, swimming, cycling)
Weight management to reduce joint stress
Acetaminophen and oral or topical NSAIDs for pain
Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles
Intra-articular corticosteroid injections for flares
Joint replacement surgery (arthroplasty) for end-stage disease

Prevention

Maintain a healthy weight throughout life
Stay physically active with joint-friendly exercises
Protect joints from injury during sports and physical activities
Strengthen muscles around vulnerable joints

When to See a Doctor

Joint pain or stiffness that limits daily activities
Joint swelling, redness, or warmth
Joint symptoms that do not improve with over-the-counter treatments
Joint deformity or instability

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Autoimmune

Gout

Musculoskeletal

Plantar Fasciitis

Musculoskeletal

Obesity

Metabolic

Related from the Supplement Library

Turmeric

Strong

Herb · Reduces systemic inflammation (NF-κB pathway)

Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)

Strong

Fatty Acid · Cardiovascular health (TG reduction, anti-arrhythmic)

Boswellia

Moderate

Herb · Anti-inflammatory (5-LOX inhibition)

Glucosamine

Moderate

Compound · Cartilage health and matrix formation

Collagen Peptides

Moderate

Compound · Skin elasticity, hydration, and anti-aging

These supplements have been studied in relation to Osteoarthritis. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.

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