What characterizes osteoarthritis compared to rheumatoid arthritis?

Osteoarthritis is characterized primarily by the localized degeneration of joints, which differentiates it from rheumatoid arthritis. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage that cushions the joints gradually deteriorates, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced movement primarily in weight-bearing and previously injured joints. This condition typically develops gradually and is associated with aging and wear-and-tear on the joints, making it more localized in nature.

In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the immune system and is characterized by systemic joint inflammation, which means it can affect multiple joints throughout the body and often leads to more widespread symptoms. Furthermore, rheumatoid arthritis can affect individuals of any age, including children, which is not a characteristic of osteoarthritis, as the latter usually occurs in older adults.