According to Medicinenet.com, arthritis is a disorder that can cause inflammation in the joints. There are over 100 different kinds of arthritis. Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative arthritis, is just one type of arthritis, but it is the most common. This degenerative arthritic condition can be caused by the breakdown and eventual loss of bone cartilage. It can also cause the joints to break down.
In severe cases, osteoarthritis may be referred to as severe degenerative arthritis. Arthritis can affect the hands, feet, spine, and in some people, the hips and knees. Symptoms of degenerative arthritis include:
Limited function of the joints
Inflammation in the joints
Fever
Fatigue
Weight loss
So what causes someone to develop a degenerative arthritic condition? Research from Medicinenet.com states that age is the most common risk factor for this type of arthritis. Adults over the age of 40 are more prone to develop arthritis and its related conditions. This is due to the fact that with age, cartilage starts to flake and tiny holes form. With advanced cases of arthritis, cartilage can be completely lost, which means there is no longer anything to act as a cushion between the bones and joints of the body.
Weight reduction and reducing the amount of time you spend on activities that cause pressure on the joints are two ways to help treat degenerative arthritis. In some cases, physical and occupational therapy has proven helpful to ease pain and get the joints moving in a healthy manner. There is currently no cure for degenerative arthritic conditions, but its important to speak with your doctor if you are at risk or have arthritis-related symptoms.
