If you’ve heard of arthritis and arthritis, you probably know that they are conditions related to the joints, but do you know the difference between them? In this article, we will explore what every illness is, the means by which they contrast, and how can be treated to treat and forestall these circumstances that are so crippling to wellbeing, development, and actual freedom.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is an umbrella term that refers to a group of diseases that affect the body’s joints. According to the Society of Rheumatology, 1% of the population has arthritis. Unlike osteoarthritis, arthritis can affect people of all ages and genders, although it is more common in women and people between 30 and 50 years old.
These diseases involve joint inflammation, which can cause pain, swelling and stiffness, for example. Symptoms can be observed mainly in the hands, wrists, feet and ankles. They for the most part show up after an extensive stretch similarly situated, yet work on as the individual moves.
Additionally, it is critical to complement that there are different sorts of joint irritation, including rheumatoid joint aggravation and psoriatic joint agony. Subsequently, each type has its own specific characteristics and requires express treatment moves close.
Causes
There is still no clear definition of what causes arthritis, but it is known that it involves everything from genetic to infectious, immunological, hormonal and environmental factors. As for environmental factors, for example, the Society of Rheumatology states that smoking is the most relevant. Thus, here’s a tip to stay away from joint inflammation: don’t smoke!
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis, or osteoarthritis, on the other hand, is a specific condition that also affects the joints. It is often referred to as “joint wear” and occurs when the cartilage that protects the ends of bones wears away over time. This disease is related to age, so it is more common after the age of 55.
It is vital to stress that considerably more youthful people, who utilize their joints, like competitors, can likewise foster osteoarthritis.
This wear and tear can lead to pain, sensitivity, as well as loss of mobility in the affected joints. In contrast to arthritis, osteoarthritis most commonly manifests itself in the knees, hips and spine. But it can also affect hands and feet. Furthermore, due to joint wear, symptoms appear when there is movement and improve at rest.
Causes
As for the causes, genetics and family history are the most important, especially when the disease affects the hands. However, other factors are also related, such as trauma, overweight, repetitive movements and anatomical changes in the knees.
Fundamental differences between Arthritis and Osteoarthritis
To more readily comprehend the distinctions between joint inflammation and osteoarthritis, here are a few urgent focuses to consider:
- Nature of the condition: Arthritis is an inflammatory condition whereas osteoarthritis is degenerative.
- Inflammation: Arthritis involves inflammation of the joints, resulting in redness, heat, and swelling. Osteoarthritis is not necessarily associated with inflammation but with joint wear.
- Causes: Arthritis can be caused by autoimmune, genetic or environmental factors.
- Age groups: Arthritis can affect people of various age groups, including young people, while osteoarthritis is more common in older ages.
Diagnosis and Treatment
To accurately analyze joint pain and osteoarthritis, counseling a medical care professional is fundamental. The doctor will perform clinical examinations and, if necessary, order imaging and blood tests to obtain an accurate diagnosis.
Arthritis Treatment
Treatment for arthritis depends on the type and may involve a combination of medications to reduce inflammation, physical therapy to improve mobility, as well as, in severe cases, joint replacement surgery.
Osteoarthritis Treatment
While in the case of osteoarthritis, the focus is mainly on relieving pain and improving the function of the affected joints. This can be done through pain medication, physical therapies, weight loss (if necessary), and in some cases, surgical procedures to repair or replace the damaged joint.
Prevention: how to avoid arthritis and osteoarthritis
Although it is not possible to completely avoid these conditions, some measures can reduce the risk:
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the impact on joints;
- Practice exercises regularly to strengthen the muscles around the joints, thus reducing overload (in addition, work on flexibility, balance and aerobic exercises);
- Eat a balanced diet, rich in nutrients that promote joint health (especially foods rich in omega-3);
- Stop smoking or never smoke ;
- Treat other health conditions;
- Maintain the frequency of routine consultations ;
- Avoid joint injuries by adopting appropriate safety measures when practicing sports or physical activities;
- Prioritize ergonomics in manual work, that is, squat correctly and sit with posture.
In summary, joint pain and osteoarthritis are conditions that influence the joints, yet in various ways. While joint pain includes aggravation, osteoarthritis is described by the mileage of the ligament. Regardless, early conclusion and reception of a fitting treatment plan can altogether work on the personal satisfaction of individuals experiencing these circumstances.