Studies reveal that degenerative arthritis is the most common arthritis type. For a lot of people, it is a condition that can truly change their lives. If you have reason to believe that you should prepare for it, then the first step would be to learn about it.

Osteoarthritis

Arthritis of this type is also called osteoarthritis. The progress of the disease has something to do with what happens to the cartilage. Our joints have cartilage in between. This is a crucial location for cartilage because it actually pads the joint. It therefore ensures that the joints do not sustain any damage due to movement. The cartilage is also what keeps us free from pain.

For some reason, the cartilage can wear down and even disappear. When this happens, movement will result in bones grinding against each other. This can result in terrible pain. The condition often develops only in a single joint and in one that bears weight. These joints are the knee, spine and hip joints. The finger joints may also be affected and are often uniquely affected altogether. It is not common for other joints to be affected but they can be.

Symptoms

Osteoarthritis is known as a degenerative condition for a reason. The term is simply an indication that the symptoms of the disease get worse through time. The symptoms however often develop gradually so you have more than enough time to discover it. Like other types of arthritis, degenerative arthritis results in some pain, swelling and tenderness. This is especially when the joint is moved or not moved for a period of time. One may also experience stiffness, a grating sensation and gradual loss of range of joint motion.

Causes and Risk Factors

Researchers are still trying to find out the actual causes of osteoarthritis. There are however, some factors that could contribute to a person's chances of developing the condition. The disease may run in your family. Aging is also a possible risk factor for the disease. Aside from these uncontrollable factors, there are also controllable ones. It is generally believed that your weight and you use of your joints contribute to the progress of the disease. Overweight people, those who frequently stress their joints and those who suffer from joint injuries may develop osteoarthritis.

Treatment

Osteoarthritis cannot be thoroughly treated. You will have the condition for life. This doesn't mean though that you have to live through years of pain and restricted movement. There are treatment options that can help put your symptoms in check. The kind and intensity of treatment will depend on the degree of osteoarthritis that you suffer from. Patients who are already at an advanced stage may have to be treated with a combination of strong medicines and surgery. These options though will only be considered when basic remedies have already been exhausted.

Depending on your condition, your doctor may recommend a couple of basic home remedies. This may include using hot or cold compresses and resting your joints. Exercise is also a typical part of mild arthritis treatment. The exercises however aren't typical ones. They have been carefully created to help regain joint movement while preventing joints and patients from getting harmed.

Living with degenerative arthritis may be a real challenge. It is possible though so you shouldn't lose hope.