Osteoarthritis is caused by a progressive loss of cartilage that leads to joint inflammation via bone-on-bone rubbing, overuse, age, and trauma, whereas rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory disease that targets and degrades joint tissue.
What’s the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?
Written by:
•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Osteoarthritis is caused by the progressive loss of cartilage, which leads to joint inflammation due to factors like overuse and age, whereas rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that specifically targets and degrades joint tissue.