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.

Indications of the Condition

Degenerative arthritis is called such because of its nature. The name of the disease simply stresses the fact that the condition results in worsening symptoms. The longer you have it, the worse your symptoms are. Patients however usually have time to prepare and consider treatment options because the symptoms don't appear overnight. You should immediately see a doctor as soon as your first symptoms show. Symptoms to watch out for include swelling, pain, tenderness, bone grating, loss of flexibility and stiffness.

Causes and Risk Factors

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

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.

Depending on your condition, your doctor may recommend a couple of basic home remedies. This may include using hot or cold compresses and resting your joints. Exercise is also a typical part of mild arthritis treatment. The exercises however aren't typical ones. They have been carefully created to help regain joint movement while preventing joints and patients from getting harmed.

Degenerative arthritis may sound frightening but you need not be overly alarmed. Even though the condition cannot be cured, you may be able to live as normal a life as possible.