Arthritis is a general term used to describe inflammation of the joints. Osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are different types of arthritis. They share some similar characteristics, but each has different symptoms and requires different treatment. So an accurate diagnosis is important by an MD Doctor.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease. RA often results in pain and inflammation in joints on both sides of the body. In some people, it can become disabling due to its effect on the immune system.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and usually is caused by the deterioration of a joint. Typically, the weight-bearing joints are affected, with the knee and the hip being the most common.

Learn more about RA and OA through our educational images: