What is a significant difference in morning stiffness between Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Osteoarthritis (OA)?

In the context of morning stiffness associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA), the significant difference lies in the duration and nature of the stiffness experienced in each condition.

Rheumatoid arthritis typically presents with prolonged morning stiffness that lasts for at least 60 minutes, reflecting the inflammatory nature of this autoimmune disease. Patients with RA often experience significant stiffness that improves throughout the day as they become more active, highlighting the persistent synovitis and joint inflammation characteristic of the condition.

On the other hand, osteoarthritis is primarily a degenerative joint disease where the stiffness is generally shorter in duration, often lasting less than 30 minutes in the morning. Patients with OA may experience stiffness related to wear-and-tear of the joint and typically find that movement eases their discomfort relatively quickly after waking.

This contrast between the duration of morning stiffness is pivotal in differentiating between these two types of arthritis. In summary, the correct answer reflects the fact that RA is associated with longer morning stiffness (60 minutes or more), while OA usually results in less stiffness, typically lasting for less than 30 minutes.