How do I tell the difference between Osteo Arthritis and Psoriatic Arthritis ?

That's a great question, . Sometimes it can be quite challenging to tell whether the pain is from PsA or Osteoarthritis, especially if one has both types of arthritis.

We have several articles about the different types of arthritis. I will link them here for you to read about the difference in more detail; https://psoriatic-arthritis.com/clinical/condition-distinguish, and, https://psoriatic-arthritis.com/living/arthritis-types. It's also important to note that while osteoarthritis is the normal wear and tear on the joints, PsA is an inflammatory disease that impacts joints and tendons. Because of the inflammation, PsA can also impact other systems in the body as well. Do you also have a PsA diagnosis?


Are you currently experience symptoms of PsA and/or osteoarthritis? Hopefully this helps answer your questions, but don't hesitate to reach out. Wishing you a gentle day. -- Warmly, Christine (Team Member)

I personally can tell the difference because of the type of pain. First, my osteoarthritis pain is usually just a dull ache. My PsA pain is much sharper, more ferocious. Where osteoarthritis may feel like being hit with a rubber mallet, PsA pain is more akin to being hit with a hammer, repeatedly, and all day long.