Which pattern is typical for osteoarthritis rather than rheumatoid arthritis?

Which pattern is typical for osteoarthritis rather than rheumatoid arthritis?

• A. Symmetric Joint Swelling
• B. Morning Stiffness Lasting More Than 60 Minutes
• C. Pain That Worsens With Use and Improves With Rest
• D. Erosions on Radiographs

Answer: (C)

Osteoarthritis shows a mechanical pattern of pain. Pain worsens with use because the worn joint surfaces and altered biomechanics irritate the nerves during activity, and it often improves with rest as the joint is unloaded. In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory process, so it typically features morning stiffness lasting longer than an hour, symmetric swelling of multiple joints (often small joints of the hands and feet), and radiographic erosions. Therefore, the description of pain that worsens with use and improves with rest is the hallmark pattern for osteoarthritis, while the other patterns align more with rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis shows a mechanical pattern of pain. Pain worsens with use because the worn joint surfaces and altered biomechanics irritate the nerves during activity, and it often improves with rest as the joint is unloaded. In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory process, so it typically features morning stiffness lasting longer than an hour, symmetric swelling of multiple joints (often small joints of the hands and feet), and radiographic erosions. Therefore, the description of pain that worsens with use and improves with rest is the hallmark pattern for osteoarthritis, while the other patterns align more with rheumatoid arthritis.