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Musculoskeletal and Neurological Case Studies
MSN Nursing, St Thomas University
NUR 502: Advanced Pathophysiology
February 20, 2025
Musculoskeletal Function Case Study
Osteoarthritis vs. Osteoarthrosis
, Musculo and Neuro Cases 2
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by cartilage breakdown,
synovial inflammation, and structural changes within the joint. These lead to pain and impaired
function (Dlugasch & Story, 2021). Osteoarthrosis refers more specifically to the non-
inflammatory aspects of the condition, emphasizing joint wear and degeneration rather than an
inflammatory process (Hunter & Bierma-Zeinstra, 2019).
Risk Factors for Osteoarthritis in the Case Study
G.J. presents multiple risk factors for OA, including advanced age, obesity, chronic joint
pain, stiffness, and intolerance to NSAIDs. At 71 years old, her cartilage has naturally undergone
degeneration, and her recent 20-pound weight gain has increased mechanical stress on her joints.
The worsening of her pain in damp weather is a common complaint among OA patients.
Additionally, her limited response to NSAIDs and increasing reliance on opioids complicate pain
management. Given these factors, her OA symptoms have likely progressed, warranting
intervention.
Osteoarthritis vs. Rheumatoid Arthritis
OA is a degenerative disease, whereas rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune
disorder characterized by systemic inflammation (Smolen et al., 2020). OA presents with joint
stiffness that improves with activity, whereas RA is associated with prolonged morning stiffness
and systemic symptoms. OA primarily affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips,
while RA predominantly affects smaller joints. Diagnosis of OA is based on imaging findings,
whereas RA diagnosis involves serological markers (Dlugasch & Story, 2021). The absence of
systemic symptoms in G.J. supports the OA diagnosis.
Musculoskeletal and Neurological Case Studies
MSN Nursing, St Thomas University
NUR 502: Advanced Pathophysiology
February 20, 2025
Musculoskeletal Function Case Study
Osteoarthritis vs. Osteoarthrosis
, Musculo and Neuro Cases 2
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by cartilage breakdown,
synovial inflammation, and structural changes within the joint. These lead to pain and impaired
function (Dlugasch & Story, 2021). Osteoarthrosis refers more specifically to the non-
inflammatory aspects of the condition, emphasizing joint wear and degeneration rather than an
inflammatory process (Hunter & Bierma-Zeinstra, 2019).
Risk Factors for Osteoarthritis in the Case Study
G.J. presents multiple risk factors for OA, including advanced age, obesity, chronic joint
pain, stiffness, and intolerance to NSAIDs. At 71 years old, her cartilage has naturally undergone
degeneration, and her recent 20-pound weight gain has increased mechanical stress on her joints.
The worsening of her pain in damp weather is a common complaint among OA patients.
Additionally, her limited response to NSAIDs and increasing reliance on opioids complicate pain
management. Given these factors, her OA symptoms have likely progressed, warranting
intervention.
Osteoarthritis vs. Rheumatoid Arthritis
OA is a degenerative disease, whereas rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune
disorder characterized by systemic inflammation (Smolen et al., 2020). OA presents with joint
stiffness that improves with activity, whereas RA is associated with prolonged morning stiffness
and systemic symptoms. OA primarily affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips,
while RA predominantly affects smaller joints. Diagnosis of OA is based on imaging findings,
whereas RA diagnosis involves serological markers (Dlugasch & Story, 2021). The absence of
systemic symptoms in G.J. supports the OA diagnosis.
