Rheumatoid Arthritis vs. Osteoarthritis The NCLEX loves to ask about the differences between these two conditions, so be sure to make this comparison chart your friend 🙂 🦴Osteoarthritis (OA) → -Gradual wear & tear -Unilateral (think of a specific joint which is impacted by wearing over time) -Cartilage becomes thinned -Characterized by aching or stiffness after activity 🔴Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) → -Inflammation of the joints due to an autoimmune response -Symmetrical and systemic inflammatio