OA Osteoarthritis
Dr. Somesh Deb

Is arthritis and osteoarthritis the same thing?

Arthritis is a general term for conditions that affect the joints and surrounding tissues. ... Two common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a painful, degenerative joint disease that often involves the hips, knees, neck, lower back, or small joints of the hands.

Medical Definition of Degenerative arthritis

Degenerative arthritis: A type of arthritis caused by inflammation, breakdown, and eventual loss of the cartilage of the joints. ... Also known as osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease.

What is the best treatment for osteoarthritis?

Medications that can help relieve osteoarthritis symptoms, primarily pain, include:

. Acetaminophen. Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) has been shown to help some people with osteoarthritis who have mild to moderate pain. ... . Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). ... . Duloxetine (Cymbalta).

Is osteoarthritis serious?

It not only causes pain, but is associated with other pathologies such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, or hypertension among others. A poor evolution of osteoarthritis can lead to lack of mobility and disability, thus incapacitating patients to perform the most daily tasks. ... Osteoarthritis: A serious disease].