There are several different types of arthritis, the most common of which are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The two share some common characteristics of the condition, which affects the joints, but because each is caused by something different, how they are treated and management of their symptoms are also different.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of the condition, affecting around 8.5 million people in the UK. This is a degenerative disease, usually affecting older people, although you can also develop osteoarthritis after an injury, such as a fracture. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage surrounding our bones wears away, allowing the bones to rub painfully against each other at the joints. Hands, knees, hips and spine can all be affected, along with the neck, shoulders and elbows. Patients with osteoarthritis will generally have painful joints and potentially restricted or limited movement.
Rheumatoid arthritis is more severe, an autoimmune disease in which the immune system turns on the body, attacking the tissue in the joints and causing painful inflammation. If you have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, you are likely to have swollen, stiff joints and experience fatigue and an overall feeling of ill health.
These two common forms of arthritis share those common symptoms of joint pain and limited movement. However, the treatment of the two is not the same and how you manage your pain symptoms will depend on your diagnosis.
If you have osteoarthritis, where the joint cartilage has worn away or has broken down, you need to maintain the strength of your joints so they continue to function. Your doctor will recommend exercises that will keep your muscles in shape so they can support the damaged joints. Staying active is important and if you are overweight, try to shed those extra pounds to take the strain off your joints.
If you have rheumatoid arthritis, the biggest problem you will face is the inflammation of the membrane of the joint, which makes them swell painfully. Flu-like symptoms that leave you feeling tired and exhausted all the time are also typical. You will be prescribed medication to reduce the inflammation but it’s also important to rest properly and to do gentle exercises that keep your joints mobile so your overall health improves. Try to avoid activities or foods that can increase the inflammation.
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