Joint disorders are common health problems affecting people of all ages. Many often wonder whether the joint pain they are experiencing is arthritis or osteoarthritis. Understanding the key differences between these two conditions can help people recognize their symptoms early and seek an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
 

How Are Arthritis and Osteoarthritis Different?

Arthritis is a general term used to describe more than 100 conditions that cause inflammation in one or more joints. Common examples include rheumatoid arthritis, gout, pseudogout, septic arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Arthritis can arise from various causes, and symptoms will differ for each person. The causes may include genetics, immune system dysfunction, prolonged accumulation of uric acid in the blood, joint infections, or infections spreading from other parts of the body.
 
Osteoarthritis (OA) occurs when the cartilage covering the joint surfaces wears down over time. This occurs as a result of aging, prolonged use, joint injury, or excessive stress on weight-bearing joints.
 
The Risk Factors

• Genetics: Individuals with a family history of arthritis are at higher risk.
• Gender: Women are more prone to rheumatoid arthritis, while men are more likely to develop gout.
• Athletes: Those who play high-impact sports that stress the knees, such as boxing, marathon running, tennis, basketball, or soccer, are especially at risk.
• Occupations: People with jobs that require repetitive joint use, such as prolonged standing, kneeling, or heavy lifting, are at risk.
• Excess weight: Increased body weight places more pressure on the knees, hips, and spine.
• Previous joint injuries: Past injuries to a joint can increase the risk of developing arthritis or osteoarthritis.

 

How Do Symptoms Differ Between Arthritis and Osteoarthritis?

Although both arthritis and osteoarthritis share common symptoms such as pain and stiffness, they have distinct characteristics:
 
Arthritis

• The pain may not necessarily be related to activity; it can occur even at rest or during the night.
• Morning stiffness can last for an extended period.
• Additional signs of inflammation, such as swelling, redness, and warmth around the joints, are common.

 
Osteoarthritis

• Symptoms develop gradually over months or years.
• Pain worsens with activity such as walking or running and improves with rest.
• Stiffness is often present after waking up or sitting for long periods, but improves once the joint is in motion.
• In advanced stages, a grinding or cracking sound may be heard in the affected joint.

 
 
Why Early Recognition Matters
Joint pain should never be ignored. Understanding the differences between arthritis and osteoarthritis is an important first step in maintaining joint health.

At the Bumrungrad Advanced Arthritis & Arthroplasty Center, our team of orthopedic specialists provides accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans — from lifestyle modifications and physical therapy to advanced surgical solutions — helping patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life.

Reviewed by : Dr. Pakpoom Somrak