Degenerative Arthritis is often referred to as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease, and is a progressive, wear-and-tear breakdown of the joint surfaces and nearby soft tissues. Symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain, inflammation, and decreased range of motion. Degenerative arthritis causes bony outgrowths, or osteophytes, to form, which can put pressure on nearby nerves and lead to additional symptoms of muscle weakness or numbness and tingling. There is no cure for osteoarthritis, according to the Mayo Clinic, but treatments are aimed at relieving symptoms and improving quality of life.
Chiropractic
A doctor of chiropractic is trained to diagnose and treat this very common cause of back and neck pain. They are concerned with proper function of the joints of the spine and appendages, as well as the surrounding muscles. One of the many causes of excessive wear and tear on the joints is improper or limited motion of the joints, and chiropractors aim to restore appropriate motion through manipulation or adjustments. Chiropractic manipulation helps break up adhesions that have developed in the joints, allowing for full and free motion. Most chiropractors will also address muscular limitations caused by soft tissue trigger points, muscle weakness, or excessively tight and strained muscles.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy utilizes passive therapies, such as heat and cold, ultrasound and electrical muscle stimulation to help reduce pain symptoms, and improve soft tissue mobility. In addition, they will utilize exercise to strengthen weak muscles and therapist-assisted stretches to improve flexibility and range of motion, according to Spineuniverse.com. In order to allow for the easiest and fullest joint motion, the surrounding muscles and other soft tissues must be functioning properly. Physical therapy can help retrain muscles that have been damaged through trauma or poor posture.
Lifestyle Modification
One factor that contributes to excessive wear of the joints is additional body weight. Obese individuals have much more mechanical stress on the joints of their spines and legs than those of normal weight. Over time, this additional stress on the joints causes wear and breakdown of the cartilage and spinal discs. While losing weight will not reverse degenerative changes that have already occurred, it can reduce symptoms.
Medication
Medications of many different types can help reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis. According to the Mayo Clinic, NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen are effective at reducing pain and inflammation associated with the condition. They are available over-the-counter or in stronger doses, by prescription. In severe cases, where over-the-counter medications have been ineffective, your doctor may prescribe stronger painkillers, such as opioid narcotics for a short period of time. Corticosteroids can also be injected directly into the affected joint to reduce inflammation and pain.
