What is the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?

Aging vs. Attacking: Osteoarthritis is often referred to as "wear and tear" arthritis that develops as we age. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks and destroys its own joints.

Inflammation: Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by inflammation in joints and that inflammation can lead to destruction and other chronic problems. Osteoarthritis is not typically considered an inflammatory disease. It is mostly associated with the aging process, post traumatic joint injuries, or what we would consider the arthritis resulting from wear and tear., treatments also differ dramatically.