1-

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

You are here

• Home
• »
• Spine Conditions
• »
• Degenerative Joint Disease Risk Factors
• »
• Degenerative Joint Disease Risk Factors
• »
• Aging

Degenerative Joint Disease and Aging

Degenerative joint disease, also known as osteoarthritis, is the most commonly diagnosed form of arthritis. The condition, which is mainly caused by aging, involves the breakdown of cartilage between the connecting joints of the body, including the joints between the vertebrae which are called facet joints.

The facet joints are located at the posterior (or back end) of each vertebra and allow our spines to be flexible. As we get older, the cartilage in our bodies begins to lose water. The dehydrated cartilage of the facet joints can wear down, causing adjacent vertebrae to start rubbing together. As bone grinds on bone, this agitation can lead to joint stiffness, inflammation, and possible nerve compression, which could produce pain and radiating symptoms of pain, tingling, weakness, and numbness in the extremities.

Can I Prevent Osteoarthritis?

There is no way to completely prevent the onset of osteoarthritis. Degenerative joint disease affects up to 80 percent of the elderly and can be debilitating. There are many people, however, who show signs of degeneration and never experience symptoms. Living a healthy lifestyle may help stave off degeneration and reduce your risk of developing symptoms, but it is advisable to check with your doctor before making any diet or exercise changes. Maintain a healthy weight and eat a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Avoid processed or refined foods and eat plenty of vegetables and fruits. Limit the intake of alcohol and avoid smoking cigarettes. The toxins released when smoking have been shown to speed the breakdown of cartilage.

Click Here to see how you can get your life back in 5 days

What if I’m Still in Pain?

Is degenerative joint disease causing you pain? Have you tried conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, massage, chiropractic adjustments, and medication with no relief from your pain? The orthopedic specialists at Laser Spine Institute offer a variety of minimally invasive procedures using state-of-the-art endoscopic techniques. Contact us today 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.