Dealing with Arthritis, Osteoporosis and Gout

Arthritis happens when the cartilage that cushions your joints gradually breaks down. A joint is any place where two or more bones connect, like the knee, hip, wrist, or shoulder. When the cartilage wears down, the bones rub against each other. This causes damage and pain.

Your doctor can often diagnose arthritis by asking you questions about your joint pain and other symptoms and examining you. You may also have X-rays and blood tests. Blood tests can help make sure another disease isn’t causing your symptoms.

There is no cure for arthritis. But treatment can help slow or limit the breakdown of cartilage and help you reduce your pain and continue to lead an active life.

The difference between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis 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.

  • Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is caused by mechanical wear and tear on joints.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis affects about one-tenth as many people as osteoarthritis. It is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s own immune system attacks the body’s joints.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the wear and tear on your joints. You may not feel like exercising when your joints are sore and swollen, but there are ways that you can stay active with osteoarthritis. Aerobic activity and range of motion exercises can be useful. Check with your healthcare provider before you start any activity to ensure it is safe. Learn more about osteoarthritis and gout in this section:

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis can be a lifelong journey. Physiotherapy and exercise can help. These activities can reduce pain and keep your condition from getting worse. Learn more in this section.

Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis. It occurs when high levels of uric acid cause crystals to form in your joints and soft tissues, leading to inflammation, pain and swelling.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is low bone mass (bone mineral density) and breakdown of bone tissue. People with osteoporosis are more likely to fracture their bones. These fractures are usually in the wrist, hip, spine or shoulder. Weight-bearing exercises can help prevent osteoporosis. Aim for healthy eating including sources of calcium and vitamin D. Learn more about: