Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are two of the most common forms of arthritis, and both can cause joint pain and stiffness. They are very different conditions, though, and knowing which one you have shapes your treatment. Our rheumatology team in Manassas, VA evaluates and manages both.
What Causes Each Condition
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease. The immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation that can damage cartilage and bone over time. RA can also affect other parts of the body, such as the eyes, lungs, and blood vessels.
Osteoarthritis (OA) develops as the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones gradually wears down. Age, past joint injuries, extra body weight, and repetitive stress on a joint all raise the risk.
How the Symptoms Differ
| Rheumatoid arthritis | Osteoarthritis | |
|---|---|---|
| Morning stiffness | Often lasts 30 minutes or longer | Usually eases within 30 minutes |
| Joints affected | Often small joints of the hands and feet, on both sides of the body | Often weight-bearing joints such as knees and hips, plus hands; may affect one side |
| Swelling | Soft, warm, tender swelling | Bony enlargement, less warmth |
| Whole-body symptoms | Fatigue, low-grade fever, feeling unwell | Usually limited to the joints |
| Onset | Can develop over weeks to months, at any adult age | Develops gradually, more common with age |
How a Rheumatologist Makes the Diagnosis
Diagnosis starts with your history and a careful joint exam. Blood tests can look for inflammation markers and antibodies linked to RA, and imaging can show joint changes. Our Manassas office offers musculoskeletal ultrasound, which can help show joint inflammation, and joint aspiration to examine fluid from a swollen joint.
Treatment Approaches
RA treatment focuses on calming the immune response to control inflammation and help protect the joints. Plans may include disease-modifying medications and, for some patients, infusion therapy in our on-site infusion center.
OA treatment focuses on easing pain and keeping you active. Options may include exercise and weight management, pain-relief medication, and joint injections. Your provider will talk with you about which options fit your situation.
Get Your Joint Pain Evaluated in Manassas
If joint pain, swelling, or stiffness is getting in the way of daily life, an evaluation can help you understand what is causing it. Meet our rheumatologists and nurse practitioners, browse all the conditions we treat, or request an appointment at our Manassas office. You can also call (703) 361-3255, Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.