Degenerative Arthritis Treatment

Degenerative Arthritis Treatment

Degenerative Arthritis Treatment?

So what is Degenerative Arthritis Treatment? Well let’s begin by stating that Osteo arthritis is a condition that affects the joints. Even more specifically it affects the cartilage that protects the bones within the joints.

When the cartilage wears down it is commonly known as degenerative arthritis. This type of arthritis increases with age.  It is estimated that there are more than 27 million Americans who suffer from degenerative arthritis.

The joints that are typically most impacted are the knees toes and fingers.  When a joint is affected not only does the cartilage disintegrate but bone spurs can also develop.  These two factors contribute to the pain of patients suffering from degenerative arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of degenerative arthritis. It usually impacts adults over the age of 40.

Patients who are seriously over weight and who have had repeated trauma are at greater risk of developing secondary osteo arthritis.

Being over weight will cause additional stress to the cartilage. This is a huge risk factor for developing degenerative arthritis in the knees.  It has been found that repeated trauma to the joint tissue will cause early degenerative arthritis. this is quite common amongth some athletes such as, such as basketball and soccer players.

At this time there is no treatment that will prevent the progression or cure the disease.  However, there is preliminary evidence that using glucosamine, chondroitin, vitamin D and vitamin C in combination may help reduce the damage to the joints and deformity. Some preliminary studies have also had limited evidence that selenium may also contribute to the decrease in the progression of degenerative arthritis.

A Degenerative Arthritis Treatment may include placing ice around the joint as well as designing specific exercises to improve the strength of the muscles that support the damaged joints. Loosing weight is another treatment option that can help to reduce the stress on the cartilage, especially in the knees.

Osteoarthritis can also cause the creation of enlargements in the joints of the fingers.  Osteoarthritis that forms in the base of the big toe will result in the formation of a bunion.

Arthrocentesis is a medical procedure which may be performed in a medical office to remove fluid for analysis.  This information in addition to the arthritis symptoms will give doctors the information they need to properly design a degenerative arthritis treatment for patients.

Unfortunately there is no common Degenerative Arthritis Treatment in place today to stop the  progression of the arthritis  and decrease the pain. Doctors typically rely on pain medications and physical therapy to help patients who are suffering from this illness.  Surgery is still an option for  individuals who do not respond well to traditional therapy.

You should always consult with your doctor before taking any medication or beginning any medical treatment.

If you would like to find out more about Degenerative Arthritis Treatment visit our previous post.