Degenerative Arthritis Treatment in Southlake

Here discuss about Degenerative Arthritis Treatment in Southlake : Degenerative arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis is the most commonly known type of arthritis. It is a type of arthritis that occurs when the natural cushioning (cartilage) between joints experience wears and tears over time. The cartilage is a firm, slippery tissue that enables the joint to move freely.

When degenerative arthritis occurs, there is less cushioning between the bones of the joints and they rub against each other resulting in pain, swelling, stiffness, limited or inability to move, and formation of bone spurs. The wearing down of the cartilage occurs gradually and worsens over time.

Degenerative arthritis commonly occurs in older people. It affects more than 30 men and women in the United States.

Causes of degenerative arthritis

The wear and tear of the cartilage in the joint that occurs over time is the major cause of degenerative arthritis.

Risk Factors

 

There are several risk factors for degenerative arthritis. These include:

• Age

As we grow older, the risk of developing degenerative arthritis increases. The older you get, the more wear and tear occur on your joints.

• Overuse

Degenerative arthritis can occur due to overuse of a joint such as from demanding sports or physical activities done over a long period of time.

• Overweight

Excess weight can put pressure on some joints in the body, increasing the risk of degenerative arthritis.

• Ligament injuries

People with ligament injuries are at higher risk of degenerative arthritis.

• Torn cartilage

Individuals with torn cartilage are also at risks of degenerative arthritis

• Heredity

People with a family history of degenerative arthritis are at greater risk of developing the condition.

• Repetitive stress injuries

Individuals with certain occupations that include a lot of repetitive stress on the joints, such as kneeling, squatting, or lifting heavy weights are at risk of degenerative arthritis.

• Joint injuries

People with injuries to their joints are at risk of degenerative arthritis.

• Bone deformities

Individuals born with deformed joints or defective cartilage are at increased risk of degenerative arthritis.

• Certain diseases and disorders

People with certain diseases and disorders such as diabetes, hemochromatosis, and rheumatoid arthritis are at greater risk of developing degenerative arthritis.

Symptoms of degenerative arthritis

Symptoms of degenerative arthritis include:

• Pain
• Joint stiffness
• Joint inflammation
• Tenderness around the affected area
• Swelling around the affected joint
• Loss of flexibility of joint
• Reduced or loss of mobility
• Warmth feeling in the knee
• Bone Spurs
• Muscle weakness
• Joint deformity

Treatment of degenerative arthritis

The treatment that will help improve your condition depends largely on the severity of your symptoms and the location of the arthritis.

Treatment options for degenerative arthritis include:

Exercises

Exercises and physical activities help to strengthen the muscles around your joints. Exercises also help to make the joint more stable and relieve stiffness.

Tai chi and yoga

Tai chi and yoga helps to improve joint flexibility and increase range of motion. They also help with pain management.

Weight loss

Excess weight can strain the joints and increase your risk of degenerative arthritis. If you are overweight, reducing your weight can help to reduce pressure on the joint.

Heat and cold

Apply heat can help relax the muscles around the joint and reduce pain while applying cold can help relieve pain.

Over-the-counter pain relievers

OTC pain relievers such acetaminophen can help relieve degenerative arthritis pain.

Over-the-counter topical analgesics

OTC topical analgesics are available in creams, gels, and patches. They are applied on the affected area to help numb the joint area and provide pain relief.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium can help provide pain relief.

Corticosteroids injection 

Injecting corticosteroids into the affected joint can stop degenerative arthritis pain.

Hyaluronic acid injection

Injecting hyaluronic acid into the affected joint can help reduce friction between bones and improve mobility.

Using assistive devices

Using assistive devices can help provide support and improve your symptoms.

Alternative therapies

Some alternative therapies and supplements may help to relieve your symptoms. These include the use of topical creams with capsaicin, ginger, fish oil, green tea, acupuncture, and massage therapy.

Surgery

Surgery is required in severe cases where other conservative treatments fail to improve your condition. There are different types of surgery that your doctor may recommend depending on the severity of your condition and the location of the arthritis.

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