What's the difference? Q: I read your column last week about alleviating rheumatoid arthritis pain. But I have to admit, I'm not sure what the difference between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis is. How would I know which one I have? Dr. Wright: There are some pretty big differences between the two, even though many treatments will have a beneficial impact on both. First, osteoarthritis can affect just one specific joint and is due to wear and tear more than anything else, although you can be genetically predisposed to getting it. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disorder that affects the entire body. Osteoarthritis rarely affects individuals under 40, but rheumatoid arthritis can affect you at any age. An x-ray will tell your doctor if you have osteoarthritis, while a blood test will reveal rheumatoid arthritis. And while osteoarthritis limits itself to affecting the joints, rheumatoid arthritis will affect your entire body and can also impact other aspects of your health, with sufferers also complaining of extreme tiredness and fatigue in response to the overall inflammation. If you feel any kind of arthritis starting, you should pay a visit to your doctor to see exactly what's going on and come up with a treatment plan. In the wake of the "recent" Vioxx revelations (which have actually been known for years—just not acknowledged by the mainstream), make sure the doctor you choose is knowledgeable about treating you naturally. If you don't have a physician who will do this for you, contact the American College for Advancement in Medicine (800-532-3688, www.acam.org) for a list of those who will. | 
