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What are the Main Types of Arthritis?

There are actually hundreds of different types of arthritis that affect the body. However, the two main types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The symptoms of both of these are fairly similar, and both of them cause a lot of pain in the joints. However, the way they initiate in the body are very different, and that’s why it is important for a professional to determine what issue a person actually has.

Osteoarthritis basically occurs when the cartilage of the bone wears out and inflammation results. This is the most common type, and it basically occurs because of wear and tear on the joints over time. This type can result because of an injury or even because of excess weight gain. A doctor will generally conduct X-rays and other tests in order to diagnose this issue. When it comes to treat this disease, joint replacement therapy is often the most effective way to ensure that a person becomes pain free.

Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, occurs when the immune system begins attacking the synovial fluid in the body. Generally, a person’s immune system protects them from bacteria and invading infections. However, in this case, it does not work properly and it actually backfires and starts attacking one’s own body. There is really no known cause for this form of arthritis, but it is very painful and the inflammation can affect other organs as well. When it comes to treating this disease, most professionals generally look to treat the inflammation in the body and surgery is often not necessary. However, if individuals have developed permanent damage, then surgery can be very useful.

There are many options a person has to reduce the pain they feel due to this condition. If the joint pain is severe and if it limits them from doing the things they love, then they should consider surgical procedures to help them get better again. Joint replacement, including robotic surgery, is a good option for certain individuals, and a person should bring this option up with their specialist in order to see if they are a good fit for it or not. Whether a person has rheumatoid arthritis or whether they have osteoarthritis, they always have the option of getting surgical treatment in order to reduce the pain they are feeling on a daily basis.

Know your options!

If you’re ready to learn more, request a consultation with one of the orthopedic specialists at the Orthopedic & Sports Institute. Call (920) 560-1000 or request an appointment online.

OSI has convenient locations to serve you. The campus in Appleton includes clinics, a surgery center, MRI, physical therapy, and a skilled nursing facility, as well as a walk-in clinic that provides care for new orthopedic injuries.

OSI has outreach clinics in New London, Ripon, Shawano, Waupaca, Green Bay, and the newest location in Oshkosh at 600 N. Koeller Street.

OSI is a founding member of NOVO Health.