1-

• Contact Laser Spine Institute
• Request MRI Review
• Medical Spine Seminar

You are here

• Home
• »
• Spine Conditions

How to Treat Degenerative Joint Disease

Degenerative joint disease, also called osteoarthritis, involves the breakdown of cartilage on joint surfaces. A smooth cartilage coating helps the ends of joints to slide smoothly against one another, but once cartilage wears away, exposed bone surfaces will rub against one another, resulting in pain, stiffness, and other uncomfortable symptoms.

Osteoarthritis can occur on any joint in the body that has cartilage, which is the vast majority of joints in the body. When this condition affects the joints of the neck and back – called facet joints – symptoms can include pain, tenderness, stiffness, limited range of motion, and swelling. Symptoms may be felt in the neck, back, shoulders, hips, buttocks, or extremities, depending on the location of the affected spinal joints. Following a diagnosis, most patients immediately inquire about how to treat degenerative joint disease. Fortunately, many treatment options are available.

Conservative Treatments

Most doctors begin treatment for degenerative joint disease with conservative, non-invasive therapies. This may include one or more of the following:

• Pain medications or anti-inflammatory medications (either over-the-counter or prescription)
• Physical therapy
• Intermittent rest
• Hot/cold therapy
• Stretching and low impact exercise
• And others

Alternative Treatments

Some patients may choose to explore alternative therapies, either in conjunction with their doctor-prescribed conservative treatments or in lieu of them. Acupuncture, chiropractics, massage therapy, yoga, and Pilates have benefitted many patients with osteoarthritis, though the exact efficacy of these treatments remains unproven to many doctors and medical professionals.

Surgical Treatments

If conservative and alternative treatments are ineffective, a doctor or back specialist may recommend open back or open neck surgery. These surgeries can involve many risks and may require lengthy hospital stays and recoveries. Individuals who are hesitant to commit to open neck or back surgery may be interested in the minimally invasive procedures performed at Laser Spine Institute. Utilizing state-of-the-art endoscopic technology, our procedures utilize small incisions, deep IV sedation, and local anesthesia. Many patients are on their feet within an hour of their procedure. Contact Laser Spine Institute for more information and to schedule a complimentary review of your MRI or CT scan.

Please note: Laser Spine Institute currently does not perform endoscopic procedures on the thoracic spine.