Osteoarthritis is caused by wear-and-tear on joint cartilage over time and typically affects one or a few joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where your immune system attacks joint tissue, usually affecting multiple joints symmetrically. Treatment approaches differ significantly between the two conditions.

Arthritis typically causes gradual onset of pain, morning stiffness lasting 30+ minutes, pain that worsens with activity, and joint swelling. Sudden pain after injury, locking, or giving way suggests other problems like meniscus tears or ligament damage. X-rays and physical examination help confirm arthritis diagnosis.

Currently, there's no cure for arthritis, and cartilage damage can't be fully reversed. However, treatments can slow progression, reduce pain, improve function, and enhance quality of life significantly. Early intervention with lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and appropriate medications can prevent or delay severe joint damage.

Many people report increased joint pain in cold, damp weather, though scientific evidence is mixed. Possible explanations include decreased atmospheric pressure affecting joint inflammation, cold temperatures causing muscle and tissue tightness, and reduced activity in winter leading to joint stiffness. Staying warm and active may help manage weather-related pain.

Osteoarthritis typically develops after age 50, though it can occur earlier with joint injuries or obesity. Rheumatoid arthritis most commonly starts between ages 30-60. Post-traumatic arthritis can develop at any age following joint injury. Family history, occupation, and lifestyle factors also influence onset timing.

While some joint stiffness is common with aging, persistent pain, swelling, or functional limitations aren't normal. Arthritis causes specific changes visible on X-rays or MRI, including cartilage loss, bone spurs, and joint space narrowing. If pain interferes with daily activities, see a doctor for proper evaluation rather than dismissing it as normal aging.

Yes, several strategies slow arthritis progression including maintaining healthy weight, staying physically active with low-impact exercise, avoiding joint injuries, managing inflammation through diet, and following prescribed treatment plans. Early intervention makes the biggest difference in preventing severe joint damage.

Flare-ups can be triggered by overactivity, weather changes, stress, dietary factors, skipping medications, infections, or poor sleep. Identifying your personal triggers through a symptom journal helps prevent future flares. During flare-ups, rest the joint, apply ice, and contact your doctor if symptoms don't improve within a few days.

Start with your primary care doctor for initial evaluation. They may refer you to a rheumatologist for inflammatory arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis or complex cases requiring specialized medication management. See an orthopedic surgeon when considering injections, surgery, or other procedural treatments. Many patients see both specialists.

X-rays are the primary diagnostic tool, showing joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and cartilage loss. Blood tests help diagnose inflammatory arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis. MRI may be ordered for detailed soft tissue evaluation. Physical examination assessing pain, range of motion, and joint stability is also essential for diagnosis.

Osteoarthritis doesn't spread like an infection, but you can develop it in multiple joints independently, especially with risk factors like obesity, genetics, or joint injuries. Inflammatory arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis affects multiple joints by nature of being a systemic disease. Protecting all joints through proper body mechanics and weight management is important.

Joint cracking or popping without pain is usually harmless and not a sign of arthritis. It's often caused by gas bubbles in joint fluid or tendons moving over bones. However, painful popping, grinding sensations (crepitus), or catching may indicate cartilage damage or arthritis and should be evaluated by a doctor.

Diet plays a modest role in arthritis management. Anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish, berries, and leafy greens may reduce symptoms, while processed foods, sugar, and excessive alcohol may worsen inflammation. Weight loss from any healthy diet significantly reduces joint stress. No specific diet cures arthritis, but healthy eating supports overall treatment.

Exercise is essential for arthritis management and won't worsen properly managed arthritis. Low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, and walking strengthen muscles supporting joints, maintain flexibility, and reduce pain. Avoid high-impact activities like running on hard surfaces. Start slowly and increase gradually with guidance from a physical therapist.

Arthritis pain typically develops gradually, feels worse in the morning or after inactivity, improves with gentle movement, and affects the entire joint. Injury pain usually has sudden onset, a specific cause, localized sharp pain, and may include swelling, bruising, or instability. Severe or persistent pain from either source requires medical evaluation.