There is a lot of confusion about the difference between osteoarthritis and arthritis. The two terms are often used interchangeably, but they are actually different conditions.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that is caused by wear and tear on the joints. It is the most common form of arthritis, and it affects millions of people in the United States.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a term that refers to any condition that causes inflammation in the joints. There are many different types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Each type of arthritis has its own unique set of symptoms.
Symptoms
The main symptom of osteoarthritis is joint pain. The pain may be mild or severe, and it may come and go over time. The joint may also become swollen and stiff. osteoarthritis can occur in any joint in the body, but it is most common in the hips, knees, and hands.
The main symptom of arthritis is inflammation. This can cause pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the joint. Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, but it is most common in the wrists, fingers, hips, and knees.
Causes of Osteoarthritis
The exact cause of osteoarthritis vary and may not be fully known, but there are several factors that may contribute to the development of the condition. These include:
– age
– genetics
– obesity
– joint injury
– repetitive motion
Causes of Arthritis
The cause of arthritis also varies, but there are several factors that may contribute to its development. These include:
– autoimmune disorders
– infections
– environmental factors
– lifestyle choices
– hereditary factors
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of osteoarthritis is typically based on a combination of symptoms, medical history, and physical examination. The doctor may order imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to help confirm the diagnosis.
The diagnosis of arthritis is also typically based on a combination of symptoms, medical history, and physical examination. However, there is no one definitive test for arthritis. The doctor may order imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to help confirm the diagnosis.
Common Treatment Options
Currently there may not be a complete cure for osteoarthritis, but there are several treatments that can help manage the symptoms. These include:
– medications such as painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs
– physical therapy
– braces or supports to help stabilize the joint
– surgery
Stem Cell Therapy as a Treatment Option
One relatively new treatment option for osteoarthritis is stem cell therapy. This involves injecting stem cells into the affected joint in order to promote healing and reduce pain.
Pros of Stem Cell Therapy
– May help to reduce pain and inflammation
– May promote healing of the joint
– Does not require surgery
Cons of Stem Cell Therapy
– Not yet FDA approved
– Costs may be prohibitive
– Risks and side effects are unknown
Here’s a webinar interviewing a double hip stem cell treatment patient and his results.
Courtesy of Regen Cellular in New Zealand.
*** All content on NationalStemCellTherapy.com is for informational purposes only. All medical questions and concerns should always be consulted with your licensed healthcare provider.