Although they both have “osteo” in their name, osteoporosis and osteoarthritis are two completely different things. “Osteo” simply means bone, because both conditions affect bones.
What is the difference between Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis?
Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become less dense and weaker. Hence they are more likely to break. Think of it a bit like a Crunchy honeycomb bar where the bubbles are bigger and the whole bar therefore weaker. In contrast in osteoarthritis is a disease of joints at the end of the bones. The bones are of a normal strength but the lining shock-absorbing cartilage is worn away. There bone is rubbing on bone, which causes stiffness and pain.
What causes osteoporosis?
Risk factors for osteoporosis include; vitamin D deficiency, early menopause, smoking, obesity, and low physical activity.
What causes osteoarthritis?
Risk factors for osteoarthritis is usually a family history (passes in your genes). However, it can also result from joint inflammation (such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout) or follow trauma with severe sprains or broken bones.
Osteoporosis and osteoarthritis prevention
So in summary osteoporosis is where there is not enough bone and osteoarthritis is where there is not enough cartilage!
Sufferers of osteoporosis and arthritis, however, both can benefit from similar interventions to optimise their health. These include; exercise programs to keep fit, trim and healthy. As well as eating a healthy balanced diet, and to avoid smoking.
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