Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis Treatment in Eugene

Osteoarthritis (aka degenerative joint disease) may affect the feet of as many as one in six people over the age of 50. Millions more suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, which can also cause severe pain in the feet.  Although osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms are similar, the cause of the pain differs. That also means that rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis treatment may vary.

What Is the Difference between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Arthritis refers to inflammation in one or more joints. All types of arthritis lead to symptoms, including joint stiffness and pain. Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis often manifest in pain in the feet and ankle joints. Osteoarthritis is most often associated with wear and tear on the cartilage in the joints due to age, repetitive motions, or overuse. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is a form of autoimmune arthritis caused by the immune system attacking the tissues surrounding joints.

Osteoarthritis Treatment of the Foot and Ankle

Unfortunately, there is no cure for osteoarthritis. However, there are many choices for osteoarthritis treatment. These may include:

• Assistive devices (orthotics)
• Minimizing activities that worsen pain (moved lower to deemphasize)
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy
• Surgery (cartilage removal, fusion surgery, joint replacement surgery)
• Transitioning from high-impact exercises to low-impact exercises
• Minimizing activities that worsen pain
• Weight loss if overweight