Osteoporosis and osteoarthritis are two different conditions, but it can be easy to confuse them - after all, their names are very similar.

Osteoporosis and osteoarthritis are two different conditions, but it can be easy to confuse them - after all, their names are very similar. However, some symptoms can be similar too. It's also possible for one person to have both conditions at once, which requires different treatments and lifestyle adjustments. Here's a quick explanation of what the difference between the two diseases is.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone disease in which the bones lose their strength and density. If you have osteoporosis, it can be extremely easy to break bones - and in fact, you may not know you have it until a fracture happens. People with severe osteoporosis may experience frequent fractures. If you have severe osteoporosis, some of the simplest activities, like coughing or picking up a child, could cause your bones to break.

If you are concerned you may have osteoporosis, your doctor can order a simple bone mineral density test that is quick and painless. If you have the condition, you'll need to pay attention to diet and physical activity - and you may also need osteoporosis medications to reduce your risk of fractures.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, and it is characterized by the loss of cushioning cartilage at the ends of bones. It can also cause changes in the bones of the joints themselves. If you have osteoarthritis, you'll probably notice pain, stiffness and a lack of mobility in the affected joints. If you are worried about having osteoarthritis, your doctor can examine you. This may include X-rays as well as a physical examination, and if osteoarthritis is found, you and your doctor can discuss what can be done. Lifestyle changes are often necessary, medications may help, and severe arthritis may end in surgery to replace very damaged joints.

What if I have both?

If you have both osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, you will need to consult with your doctor about the best plan for your care. If you see more than one doctor, you must make sure each of them knows about both of your conditions so they can make the best recommendations for your treatment. It is also particularly important for you to exercise if you have both conditions, but each disease might limit the kind of exercise you are able to do. A visit with a physiotherapist to develop an exercise routine that helps keep joints limber and bones strong may be just the thing for you.

For more on osteoarthritis:

Finding the Right Treatment for Your Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Fight Osteoarthritis with the Right Exercises
Why More Women Have Osteoarthritis