Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD)...aka Osteoarthritis (OA) or Degenerative Arthritis
DJD is a progressive condition, meaning it gets worse over time. It breaks down the cartilage that surrounds your joints, while at the same time increases the density of the bones that make up the joint. Recent studies have suggested that DJD is a genetic condition that some people are predisposed to, but it is widely thought that it is the result of repetitive injury to a joint (microtrauma).
Its most common locations are in weight bearing joints: knees, hips, low back, and neck. These are classified as mono-arthritis because they only affect one joint and are asymmetrical in the body. DJD classically presents as morning stiffness that improves with activity. Overuse or over-exercise of the joint can produce increased symptoms of pain. In small joints such as the knuckles of the fingers it visibly enlarges the joints, other joint enlargement can be viewed with x-ray study. Diagnosis of DJD is done with x-ray study; no lab testing of blood or urine can be used to determine if you have the condition.
Treatment options include: chiropractic adjustments to keep the joints mobile, non-weight bearing exercise, and weight loss. Even though DJD is not an inflammatory condition, anti-inflammatory drugs are often prescribed for pain reduction. Moist heat on larger joints also seems to help encourage pain free motion. Low impact exercises, regular chiropractic adjustments, and anti-inflammatory diets are the best preventative measures to reduce the occurrence of DJD.
Submitted by Ronald Martin, DC
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