The difference between arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis is significant. Arthritis is a degenerative lesion caused by factors such as obesity, overuse, and trauma, which lead to the degeneration of joint cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by acute or chronic inflammation of the connective tissue, commonly referred to as rheumatic fever. Clinically, it is mainly characterized by migratory pain, redness and swelling in the joints and muscles. The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not yet definite in clinical practice, and the treatments are different. Osteoarthritis mainly results from cartilage degeneration and can be managed with conservative treatment in its early stages, while surgery might be required in the later stages. The treatment for rheumatoid arthritis primarily relies on medications to alleviate symptoms, and this condition may eventually lead to significant deformities of the hands and feet. Therefore, the differences between these two diseases are considerable.