How Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis Affect Joint Health in Rosedale, MD.

Osteoarthritis is much more than just “wear and tear”—it is a chronic joint condition that profoundly affects our patients’ quality of life. Osteoarthritis causes the gradual breakdown of cartilage, the smooth tissue that cushions the ends of bones within a joint. As the disease advances, the protective cartilage diminishes, resulting in pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced flexibility in the affected joints.

Our specialists see firsthand how the loss of cartilage leads to increased friction between bones, which can cause further discomfort, bone spurs, and additional joint damage. The deterioration of cartilage in osteoarthritis is often the result of a combination of mechanical stress and biological factors, including genetics, age, joint injuries, obesity, and inflammation.

We recognize that the risk of osteoarthritis increases with age, as the body’s ability to repair cartilage declines. Factors such as previous joint injuries or inherited predispositions can also accelerate the disease process. Additionally, excess weight puts extra strain on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips, making them more vulnerable to cartilage breakdown.

At the Nasseri Clinic, our approach focuses on early diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and patient education to help manage osteoarthritis and improve joint function. We work closely with our patients to address the underlying causes—whether mechanical, genetic, metabolic, or inflammatory—and offer the latest therapies and interventions designed to relieve pain, restore mobility, and enhance overall joint health.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is primarily a degenerative joint disease. As the cartilage deteriorates, bones may begin to rub against each other, causing pain, swelling, and reduced joint flexibility. At our clinic, we often see osteoarthritis affecting weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine. Our comprehensive approach focuses on relieving pain, improving mobility, and slowing the progression of cartilage breakdown through personalized non-surgical and surgical treatment options.

Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disorder. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly targets the synovial membrane—the lining of the joints—leading to chronic inflammation. Over time, this inflammation can damage the cartilage and bone within the joint, potentially leading to joint deformity. Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis often affects joints symmetrically (for example, both wrists or both knees) and may also involve other organs. At Nasseri Clinic, our rheumatologists use advanced diagnostic tools and the latest therapies, to control inflammation, prevent joint damage, and preserve your quality of life.

RA is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, called the synovium. This leads to inflammation, swelling, and pain—symptoms that our rheumatology experts are highly experienced in treating.

As the disease progresses, the ongoing inflammation can cause permanent damage to joint cartilage and bone, resulting in joint deformities, stiffness, and limited range of motion. Without proper management, RA can significantly impact daily function and quality of life.

Our clinic uses the latest diagnostic tools and evidence-based therapies to control inflammation, prevent joint damage, and improve mobility for our patients. By providing individualized care plans, including advanced medications and physical therapy, we aim to minimize pain and preserve joint function, helping our patients maintain their independence and well-being.

If you are experiencing joint pain, swelling, or stiffness, the team at Nasseri Clinic is here to provide expert evaluation and compassionate care.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis we see in our clinic. It develops gradually as the cartilage—the protective tissue at the ends of bones—breaks down over time. Many of our patients with osteoarthritis experience these symptoms in weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips, as well as in the hands and spine. As the disease progresses, bone spurs and changes in joint shape may occur, further limiting movement and making daily activities more challenging.

Rheumatoid arthritis, by contrast, is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly targets the lining of the joints (the synovium). If not properly managed, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to the destruction of cartilage and bone, joint deformity, and loss of function. It can also affect surrounding tissues, causing weakness or damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons, which increases joint instability.

Our experienced team understands the complexities of both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. We know that, while these conditions have different causes—mechanical wear and tear versus autoimmune inflammation—they both can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, and diminished joint function over time.

Early diagnosis and personalized treatment are key priorities at our clinic. By identifying these conditions early and developing individualized management plans, we aim to slow joint damage, relieve symptoms, and help our patients maintain their independence and well-being for as long as possible. 

At Nasseri Clinic of Arthritic and Rheumatic Diseases, Dr. Nasser Nasseri, MD, is dedicated to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care for individuals living with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Our clinic specializes in personalized treatment plans that address each patient’s unique symptoms, disease progression, and lifestyle needs.

For those with osteoarthritis, Dr. Nasseri and the Nasseri Clinic team offer a multifaceted approach that may include medication management, to help alleviate pain. Our clinic’s physical therapy services are designed to strengthen the muscles around affected joints and improve overall mobility, while weight management support and recommendations for low-impact activities like swimming or cycling help reduce stress on joints and promote long-term function.

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis benefit from our expertise in advanced medication therapies, including disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic agents. Dr. Nasseri closely monitors each patient’s response to treatment, making adjustments as necessary to ensure the best possible symptom control and to prevent joint damage.

Education is a cornerstone of care at Nasseri Clinic. We empower our patients with knowledge about joint protection techniques, the importance of regular exercise tailored to their abilities, and the potential benefits of occupational therapy. When appropriate, Dr. Nasseri may also recommend complementary therapies such as heat and cold applications or the use of assistive devices to enhance daily living.

By integrating these evidence-based strategies, the Nasseri Clinic of Arthritic and Rheumatic Diseases strives to help every patient preserve joint function, minimize pain, and maintain a high quality of life. For more information, contact us or visit us online to book an appointment! We are located at 9114 Philadelphia Rd, Ste 208, Rosedale MD 21237. We serve patients from Rosedale MD, Parkville MD, Middle River MD, Rossville MD, Overlea MD, and surrounding areas.