The Difference Between Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis

Do you have a lot of pain in your joints? Do you frequently feel stiff? Have you had some recent fractures? All of these symptoms can add up to osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, or both. Learn what these conditions are, how they differ, and how to determine if you are at risk.

What Is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition that usually sets in at an older age and is typically caused by a lack of calcium in the body and the bones. Osteoporosis causes the bones in the body to become more brittle and more easily broken. This can also affect your joints because the bones of the joints can deteriorate with osteoporosis. 

What Is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. This type of arthritis also tends to set in when you are older, and it affects the cartilage of the joints. When you have osteoarthritis, the tissues of the joint begin to deteriorate until your bones rest on themselves without the connective tissues that keep them strong. Osteoarthritis can strike anyone over the age of 50, although it does seem to be more prevalent in women.

Getting a Diagnosis and Treatment

If you have been having problems with your joints, it is important to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Your doctor can diagnose your osteoporosis or osteoarthritis with x-rays and blood tests. Once diagnosed, they will be able to help you come up with a treatment plan to treat symptoms. There is no cure for osteoporosis or osteoarthritis, although there are some treatments that can help deter deterioration.

If you think you might have one of these conditions, contact us today for more information or to schedule your initial exam.