Basic Facts On Degenerative Arthritis

One type of arthritis is degenerative arthritis. There are other types but this one sounds particularly scary. You should take the time to learn more about it. After all, it is one of the most common types or arthritis.

What It Is

The degenerative form of arthritis is also commonly known as osteoarthritis. The development of this condition is related to what happens to the cartilage through time. The cartilage is that part which is found in between the ball and socket of a joint. It serves as a cushion to protect the bones during movement and impact. It also ensures that there is no pain during movement.

For some reason, the cartilage can wear down and even disappear. When this happens, movement will result in bones grinding against each other. This can result in terrible pain. The condition often develops only in a single joint and in one that bears weight. These joints are the knee, spine and hip joints. The finger joints may also be affected and are often uniquely affected altogether. It is not common for other joints to be affected but they can be.

Symptoms

You would want to get yourself treated if you have degenerative arthritis. One way to find out if you might have it is to watch out for the symptoms. The symptoms may be similar to the typical symptoms of other arthritis conditions. You could suffer from pain, stiffness and difficulty of movement. One tell-tale sign is when you notice some mild bone grating when you move your joints. These symptoms can get worse through time which is why osteoarthritis is considered a degenerative disease.

Reasons for the Condition

Like other types of arthritis, the exact causes of osteoarthritis have not been fully found. There is a possibility though that the condition could be genetically inherited. Growing old could also be a factor for cartilage degeneration. One other enduring possible contributory factor is joint use. Frequent and intense use of joints especially when they result in joint injury may increase one's risk of osteoarthritis. Being overweight could also increase a person's risk of developing the condition. It has been determined that women and those who already have rheumatoid arthritis are at a higher risk of the disease than others.

Treatment Options

Once you develop osteoarthritis, you would have to live with it for the rest of your life. There is simply no way to cure it. Patients however should still seek treatment. Medical attention can help limit the impact and incidence of symptoms. Not every patient will be treated in the same way. Doctors will initially recommend mild and non invasive treatment. Some however may already need to be operated on. They would also have to take strong medications.

Your arthritis specialist may also recommend a number of home treatment methods. One of these is a special exercise regimen. The exercises you will be asked to perform will help you improve joint flexibility without hurting your bones. Aside from exercises, you may also have to apply compresses and use pain killers.

Living with degenerative arthritis may be a real challenge. It is possible though so you shouldn't lose hope.