At the Instituto de Traumatología Gastaldi Orquin (ITGO), we frequently receive questions about the differences between arthritis and osteoarthritis, two conditions that affect the joints but have very different causes and treatments.

As specialists in traumatology in Valencia, we would like to offer you a clear and detailed explanation to help you better understand these pathologies.

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is an inflammation of one or more joints that can be due to multiple causes, such as infections, autoimmune diseases or degenerative processes. It is characterised by symptoms such as:

• Intense pain, especially during rest.
• Swelling and redness in the affected joints.
• Morning stiffness that may last for hours.
• In some cases, systemic symptoms such as fever, fatigue or weight loss.

There are several types of arthritis, with rheumatoid arthritis being one of the most common. This specific type is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system itself attacks the tissues of the joints, causing progressive damage if not properly treated.

At ITGO, we work with a comprehensive approach to the management of arthritis, offering everything from early diagnosis to advanced therapies that seek to control inflammation and preserve joint function.

If you are an athlete with signs of arthritis, our solutions in sports surgery could be key to alleviating your symptoms and restoring your quality of life.

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, is a degenerative disease that mainly affects older people, although it can also appear in younger individuals due to excessive wear and tear on the joints.

This wear and tear causes the progressive loss of joint cartilage, which leads to:

• Pain when moving, which improves with rest.
• Creaking or popping sounds when moving joints.
• Stiffness after periods of inactivity.
• Joint deformities in advanced cases.

Unlike arthritis, osteoarthritis is not a primary inflammatory disease although it can coexist with inflammation in advanced stages.

At ITGO, we approach osteoarthritis with personalised treatments ranging from advanced physiotherapy to the application of orthobiological therapies such as growth factors.

In addition, we have the support of Dr. Gastaldi in Valencia, who leads innovative surgical procedures for the most complex cases.

Main differences between arthritis and osteoarthritis

Although both conditions affect the joints, they have key differences:

Main cause

Arthritis is usually inflammatory or autoimmune. Osteoarthritis is related to the wear and tear and aging of cartilage.

Age of onset

Arthritis can occur at any age.

Osteoarthritis mainly affects older people.

Arthritis is characterized by inflammation, pain at rest, and prolonged morning stiffness. In osteoarthritis, pain occurs with movement and improves with rest.

Treatment

Arthritis requires medication to control inflammation and disease activity. In osteoarthritis, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, improving joint function, and, in advanced cases, resorting to solutions such as muscle surgery to restore mobility.

Diagnosis and treatment at ITGO

At the Gastaldi Orquin Traumatology Institute, we have a team of experts trained to diagnose and treat both arthritis and osteoarthritis. 

Through imaging studies, blood tests, and a detailed clinical evaluation, we design individualized treatment plans that may include:

• Innovative biological therapies.
• Personalized rehabilitation.
• Advanced surgery for the most severe cases.

In addition, our sports medicine unit in Valencia specializes in helping athletes maintain their activity levels, even if they are facing these conditions.

Take care of your joints with us

Both arthritis and osteoarthritis can seriously affect your quality of life if not treated properly. 

At ITGO, we are committed to your well-being, offering you the most advanced solutions in traumatology and orthopedics. 

If you have any questions or need more information, please contact us and we will be happy to help you.