Inflammatory Arthritis vs. Osteoarthritis
Many people think inflammatory arthritis is the same disease as osteoarthritis. However, osteoarthritis is associated with aging. It’s imperative to know the differences between these two types of arthritis.
Osteoarthritis is commonly referred to as arthritis; it is a condition characterized by the degrading of cartilage in more than one joint causing pain and stiffness. It is not caused by changes in the body’s immune response. The factor responsible for osteoarthritis is unknown, but is generally linked with aging, “wear and tear” or severe injuries to the joint. Osteoarthritis only occurs in joints even small joints in the spine. It is important to know that the restricted movement cashed by osteoarthritis can have negative effects on the body’s general health.
Increase in weight can occur if osteoarthritis affects the knees, because of the inability to move about. Increase in weight can elevate blood pressures and cause diabetes. Several specialists such as physiatrist, sports medicine physician and physical therapist are needed to treat people with osteoarthritis. Orthopedic surgeons are involved when surgery is required.
However, people diagnosed with inflammatory arthritis are to be treated by a rheumatologist, a doctor who specializes in autoimmune disorders, and as required, by other specialists who can treat symptoms of the disease that affect certain organs or areas of the body apart from joints. People that have lived with inflammatory arthritis for a long time may end up needing an orthopedic surgeon. Most people become aware that they have inflammatory arthritis when the signs begin to occur in more than one joint.