What Is The Difference Between Arthritis And Osteoarthritis?
Arthritis and osteoarthritis are different but have one thing in common: they are the result of inflammation of the joints. In terms of treatment the aim in both cases is to relieve pain and maintain or improve flexibility. You can be achieve this through medical supervision and various tailored rehab therapies.
Are arthritis and osteoarthritis the same?
Arthritis is a blanket term covering all types of arthritis including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout.
Wear and tear on the joints are known as osteoarthritis, and it’s the most common type of arthritis. It occurs when cartilage between bones breaks down, causing joints to become swollen, painful and hard to move. While osteoarthritis can occur at any age it is more common in people over 50 and women. It most commonly affects hands, knees, hips, the lower back and neck. In the meantime, arthritis pain can be quite difficult to manage.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can lead to painful swelling and joint deformity. It differs from other types of arthritis in that it affects not just joints but other body parts as well.
Can you have both?
You can, indeed, have osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis at the same time. For example, your hands may be affected by rheumatoid arthritis, but your spine may have degenerated due to osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease, is very different from the cartilage wear and tear associated with osteoarthritis.
What is the best treatment for osteoarthritis?
While, there is no cure for arthritis and osteoarthritis, these conditions can be managed. Treatments include pain relief medication, the application of hot or cold packs, and ensuring you maintain a healthy weight.
Furthermore, a physical therapist can show you exercises to strengthen the muscles around your joint and increase your flexibility. Any exercises you do should be safe, regular and gentle, and avoid putting additional pressure on joints. For example, swimming and walking are beneficial for those with arthritis and osteoarthritis.
In addition, occupational therapy can also help manage inflammation and slow down any deterioration.
An occupational therapist can devise ways for you to do everyday tasks without putting extra stress on a painful joint. For instance, if you have osteoarthritis in your hands, using a toothbrush with a larger handle might help. If you have knee osteoarthritis, a stool in your shower can help you avoid pain when standing.
Fairview Adult Day Care Center in Brooklyn, NY, has lots of experience treating different kinds of arthritis. Our friendly, multilingual staff and rehabilitation therapists provide loving care and one-on-one therapies designed to help you manage arthritis and osteoarthritis. People with arthritis can benefit enormously from a convivial setting such as provided by our adult day care center. We also offer wonderful recreational activities and medical care. Do contact us if you would like to learn more about center and how we help people with athritis.
This article is for educational and informational purpose only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. For any questions about your own health condition, speak to a qualified physician or healthcare provider.
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