Degenerative Joint Pain

Degenerative joint pain is usually caused by osteoarthritis, a type of arthritis whereby joint cartilage starts to wear down from age and repeated use, according to Medicinenet.com. Osteoporosis or bone degeneration can also cause joint pain. Doctors often recommend several key treatments for degenerative joint pain.

Significance

• Osteoarthritis, a sometimes crippling disease, alone affects more than 20 million people in the United States. This disease can affect the hand, fingers, knees, hips, shoulders and even, vertebrae in the back.

Types of Treatment

• People with degenerative joint pain should initially rest their joint to prevent further aggravation or swelling. A doctor may also recommend a certain diet or suggest that a person lose weight to relieve the stress on certain joints.

Other Types of Treatment

• Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen can help reduce degenerative joint pain. Alternative treatments such as the use of glucosamine may also help control pain and stiffness.

Other Types of Treatment

• A doctor may prescribe steroid injections for more severe joint pain. Moreover, according to Medicinenet.com, hyaluronic acid injections may help reduce pain by temporarily restoring joint fluid. Fusion of the joint bones may be another recommended treatment.

Effects of Exercise

• Physical therapy can help a person increase flexibility and strength in their joints and surrounding muscles, according to Mayoclinic.com. Stronger muscles provide more stability for degenerative joint pain.