Degenerative arthritis is also known as osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage in a joint is worn down. Because the cartilage prevents bone-on-bone contact when the joint moves, this loss of cartilage can be very painful. Because there are no ways to regrow this cartilage, treatment options generally focus on relieving the symptoms.
Avoiding Stress on the Joints
In many cases, the symptoms of osteoarthritis are aggravated by certain activities that put stress on the joints like running and playing tennis. Avoiding these activities may prevent symptoms.
Non-Impact Exercise
Regular non-impact exercise of joints afflicted by osteoarthritis accomplishes two things: It helps keep the muscles strong, and it can prevent the joint from becoming stiff, which can lead to pain. Swimming is one example of a non-impact exercise.
NSAIDs
Non-Steroid Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) can also be useful for treating osteoarthritis. Common examples include aspirin and ibuprofen.
Cortisone and Hyaluronic Injections
Cortisone, a corticosteroid, can relieve pain and swelling with osteoarthritis when injected. Another treatment, hyaluronic acid, also helps by replacing the fluid in the joint.
Surgery
When all other treatment options have been explored and are found to be insufficient, surgical intervention may be necessary. This involves replacing the joint with an implant.
Tags: non-impact exercise, treatment options