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What are the Symptoms of Degenerative Joint Disease?

Degenerative joint disease, also called osteoarthritis, is a condition that can affect almost any joint in the body, including the facet joints in the neck and back. When an individual informs a friend or loved one about their recent osteoarthritis diagnosis, they are often asked, “What are the symptoms of degenerative joint disease?” Some people may also wonder what they can do to avoid developing the condition themselves.

Symptoms

The symptoms of degenerative joint disease are caused by the gradual deterioration of cartilage on joint surfaces. Cartilage protects our joints and allows them to move smoothly – but without cartilage, raw joint surfaces are allowed to rub directly against one another. Though symptoms may vary, many patients with osteoarthritis experience the following:

• Pain
• Tenderness
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Limited range of motion
• The feeling of bone rubbing against bone
• The formation of bone spurs that can press against nerves, causing pain, numbness, weakness, and other symptoms

The location of these symptoms can differ depending on the position of the affected spinal joints. Patients may experience discomfort in the neck, back, hips, shoulders, buttocks, and extremities.

Preventative Measures

Though this condition is oftentimes unpreventable, there are a number of precautions an individual can take to prevent the development of osteoarthritis. Maintaining a healthy bodyweight, eating a well-balanced diet, participating in moderate exercise, not smoking, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption can all help to keep the spine healthy. Reducing the amount of wear and tear placed on the neck and back by avoiding strenuous occupations and high-impact sports can also help maintain spinal joint health.

Treatments

For those who have passed the point of prevention, there are several treatment options available for degenerative joint disease. Conservative and alternative treatments, such as pain medication, physical therapy, acupuncture, and yoga, can help many patients find relief. Others may opt for surgery to treat this spinal condition. If you are considering neck or back surgery, consult the orthopedic specialists at Laser Spine Institute. Our endoscopic procedures are safe and effective and have helped tens of thousands of patients to rediscover their lives without neck and back pain. Contact us to learn more and to receive a free review of your latest MRI or CT scan.

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