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• Degenerative Joint Disease Symptoms

Degenerative Joint Disease Symptoms

Also known as osteoarthritis, degenerative joint disease and its symptoms are commonly exhibited in the vertebral joints in the spine. Over the years, the cartilage-coated vertebral joints that stabilize the spine become worn and arthritic, which can?cause significant back or neck pain in an otherwise healthy individual. The good news is that while there is no cure for arthritis and its effects cannot be reversed, the symptoms of degenerative joint disease can usually be managed with a series of conservative, nonsurgical treatments.

The Role of the Facet Joints

In a healthy spine, the individual vertebra are cushioned by soft, spongy discs and are interconnected at vertebral joints – known as facet joints – that are located above and below each bone. These joints are what stabilize the spine, but also allow it to remain flexible. Over the years, the cartilage that prevents the bones from grinding together gradually begins to wear away, which can lead to arthritic pain – most frequently experienced in the cervical spine (neck) and lumbar spine (lower back).

Other degenerative joint disease symptoms include:

• Localized pain at the site of the arthritic joint
• Pain that radiates along a nerve
• Headaches
• A feeling of stiffness or soreness
• Fatigue
• And more

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Treatment Strategies

Treatment for degenerative joint disease is normally attempted conservatively at first, with a variety of nonsurgical techniques that are designed to alleviate pain and improve joint mobility. Treatments such as the use of pain medications or anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, massage, and diet are all effective strategies.

In the event that your pain persists after several weeks of conservative treatment, contact Laser Spine Institute to learn about our minimally invasive techniques for treating degenerative joint disease and its various symptoms.

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