Arthritis and Rheumatism

Understanding the difference between Arthritis and Rheumatism isn’t too difficult to do.  First you must understand what Arthritis is.  Arthritis by definition is a process by which a joint becomes inflamed.  This may sound vague but there is really more going on here than this.  Arthritis may start out by being an inflammation, but the damage that continues to occur behind the scenes is more debilitating than that. 

As the Synovium, which is a soft tissue that lines the cartilage betweens the bones inside of a joint continuously wears down; it begins to breakdown the lining of the cartilage making the pain more severe.  Eventually your knee or inflicted area may wear out. Rheumatism varies greatly than osteoarthritis, which is the normal form of arthritis.  Rheumatism is the most severe form of arthritis as it can only be treated surgically to remove or replace the lining that disintegrates between joints.  Both are very painful, but Rheumatism can leave the patient disabled if not treated in time.

There are two types of treatments available for patient should they experience one or the other.  Exercise, Diets and Medication are usually the initial prescription from most doctors.  Should the Rheumatoid arthritis be at a very serious stage, surgery can be the only form of relief for the patient.  Joint replacement surgeries as well as removal of the inflamed tissue are two options for the Rheumatoid arthritis sufferer.  Splints, casts and bandages have also provided minor relief, but can may only work in short durations.