Arthritis is a term commonly associated with joint pain and stiffness, but did you know there are different types of arthritis with distinct causes and treatments? Two of the most common forms are Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). Although they share some symptoms, these conditions have significant differences in their origins, progression, and management. Understanding these differences is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. In this blog, we’ll explore the key distinctions between OA and RA and discuss a promising treatment option for OA: Low Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT).
Osteoarthritis: A Degenerative Joint Condition
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a long-term degenerative joint condition that affects nearly 27 million Americans. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in your joints gradually deteriorates. This breakdown leads to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility in the affected joints. OA can impact any joint in the body, but it most commonly affects the hands, knees, hips, and spine.
As a progressive disorder, OA typically worsens over time, with symptoms intensifying and mobility further restricted. Unfortunately, there is no cure for OA, and the damage to the joints is irreversible. However, managing the symptoms through staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and undergoing specific treatments can help slow the progression and improve joint function and quality of life.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Autoimmune Disease
Unlike OA, Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. In RA, the immune system targets the lining of the joints, known as the synovium, causing inflammation, pain, and swelling. Over time, this inflammation can lead to joint damage and deformity. RA typically affects smaller joints first, such as those in the hands and feet, but it can also spread to larger joints and even other organs in severe cases.
Unlike OA, which is often a result of wear and tear, RA is driven by an abnormal immune response, making it a systemic condition. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing RA, as it can help prevent or slow down the damage to the joints and other organs.
The Most Important Difference
Unlike Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis does have a promising alternative for treatment, Low Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT). LDRT involves administering a low dose of radiation—similar to an x-ray—to the affected joints. This treatment has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve mobility in about 70% of patients. Unlike some other treatment options, LDRT is noninvasive, cost-effective, and comes with minimal side effects. Patients often notice improvements within just a few weeks of treatment. While LDRT does not cure OA or reverse joint damage, it can significantly alleviate pain and enhance the patient’s quality of life by allowing them to regain some of their lost mobility and function.
Understanding the differences between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis is essential for selecting the most appropriate treatment. If you’re struggling with OA and want to explore effective, noninvasive treatment options, Low Dose Radiation Therapy could be right for you. To learn more about LDRT or to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our experts, contact Phoenix CyberKnife today. Let us help you manage your OA symptoms and improve your quality of life.
