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Arthritis: Rheumatoid and Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis (OA), also known as Degenerative Joint Disease, is the most common form of arthritis, affecting 21 million Americans. It is caused by the gradual breakdown of cartilage. Cartilage is the rubbery protective cushioning that covers the ends of bones. When the cartilage wears away, bones begin to grate against one another, causing pain and further joint damage. Because cartilage lacks the blood supply to repair itself, osteoarthritis is progressive.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a type of inflammatory arthritis. All joint cavities contain synovial fluid which serves as a shock absorber and lubricator for the joint. Rheumatoid Arthritis occurs when the body's immune system improperly identifies the synovial membranes that secrete the lubricating fluid in the joint as foreign. The joint then produces an enzyme which attacks the connective tissue. Inflammation results, and the cartilage and tissues in and round the joints are damaged or destroyed. RA affects all of the body's synovial joints.
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