Degenerative joint disease

Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD), also known as Osteoarthritis, is a common type of arthritis characterized by the breakdown and eventual loss of the cartilage of one or more joints.

Overview

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time. Although osteoarthritis can damage any joint, the disorder most commonly affects joints in your hands, knees, hips and spine.

Causes

Degenerative Joint Disease typically occurs due to aging, but it can also be caused by other factors such as obesity, injury or overuse, and genetics. The disease begins with minor damage to the cartilage, which gradually worsens over time, leading to a complete loss of cartilage, pain, and reduced mobility.

Symptoms

The symptoms of DJD can vary greatly from person to person. Some common symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, tenderness, loss of flexibility, grating sensation, and bone spurs. These symptoms can affect any joint but are particularly common in the knees, hips, lower back, neck, and small joints of the hand.

Treatment

While there is no cure for DJD, treatments are available that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These include physical therapy, pain management, lifestyle changes such as weight loss and exercise, and in some cases, surgery. Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), analgesics, and corticosteroids are often used to manage pain and inflammation.

See Also

• Arthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Gout
• Lupus
• Fibromyalgia