How can you tell the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?

The main difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis is the cause behind the joint symptoms. Osteoarthritis is caused by mechanical wear and tear on joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s own immune system attacks the body’s joints. It may begin any time in life.

Which type of arthritis is the most crippling?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is recognized as the most disabling type of arthritis. While they both fall under the “arthritis” umbrella and share certain similarities, these diseases have significant differences.

Is osteoarthritis classed as a disability?

Osteoarthritis can be considered a disability by the SSA. You can get Social Security disability with osteoarthritis. When you apply for disability benefits, your diagnosis and medical evidence to back up your diagnosis needs to match a listing outlined in the SSA’s Blue Book.

Is osteoarthritis a serious disease?

24 Jul Osteoarthritis, a serious disease It affects more than 242 million people worldwide and is a figure that continues to grow due to increased life expectancy, but also to poor eating habits, obesity, sedentary lifestyle and uncontrolled sport.

Is knee osteoarthritis serious?

Knee arthritis can make it hard to do many everyday activities, such as walking or climbing stairs. It is a major cause of lost work time and a serious disability for many people. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, but there are more than 100 different forms.

What is the best doctor to see for osteoarthritis?

Rheumatologists – Rheumatologists specialize in musculoskeletal diseases and autoimmune conditions. They treat all types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. If there’s a chance you have something other than osteoarthritis, you will be sent to a rheumatologist.

When should you go to the doctor for knee pain?

When to see a doctor. Knee pain that comes on slowly, or as a result of activity that’s more strenuous than usual, can be managed at home. Knee pain that occurs from a relatively minor injury can often be safely observed for a day or two to see if self-care measures will be helpful.

How do you know if you need knee replacement surgery?

Your physician will also order an X-ray and possibly an MRI of your knees. For those worried that a knee pain diagnosis will inevitably lead to knee replacement surgery, take heart: Many knee problems respond well to noninvasive treatments that allow you to either avoid surgery or at least delay it.

What causes pain years after knee replacement surgery?

Loosening of the implant: This is most often the cause of pain years or decades after the knee replacement; however, it is seldom the cause of persistent pain right after surgery. Infection: Infection is a serious and worrisome concern. Any increase in pain after knee replacement should raise concerns for infection.

How can I avoid stiffness after knee replacement surgery?

Stiffness after knee replacement surgery can generally be avoided with appropriate pain control, physical therapy, and steps to reduce the likelihood of complications. However, in situations where stiffness occurs, there are steps that can be performed to try to improve the situation.