Degenerative arthritis is also known as Osteoarthritis, and is a form of arthritis caused by the breakdown of cartilage of one or more joints. Cartilage is the dense connective tissue that protects the joint between bones and serves as a cushion to keep bones from rubbing together.

Statistics show that degenerative arthritis affects nearly 20 million Americans. Experts believe these numbers will double or perhaps even triple, over the next decade due to the explosion of Baby Boomers turning to senior citizens.

Degenerative arthritis tends to occur as we age. It affects more men before the age of 45, and more women after the age of 55. It occurs more frequently in females and in the U.S. all races are equally affected.

Degenerative arthritis typically affects the hands, feet, spine, and large weight-bearing joints including the hips and knees.

There are two types of degenerative arthritis: primary and secondary. Primary degenerative arthritis is most often related to aging and the degeneration of cartilage. In severe cases, there is a total loss of cartilage which causes friction between the bones causing joint pain, swelling, and inflammation.

Secondary degenerative arthritis is caused by another disease or condition. The most common diseases that can lead to degenerative arthritis include gout, diabetes, and hormone disorders. Conditions that can lead to degenerative arthritis include obesity, congenital abnormalities, and repeated trauma or surgery to the joint structures.

Degenerative arthritis is a disease of the joints and does not affect other body organs. The most common symptom of degenerative arthritis is joint pain accompanied by swelling or redness and warmth.

Symptoms of degenerative arthritis vary greatly. Some people with degenerative arthritis are completely debilitated by their symptoms, while others have very few symptoms. Symptoms can be intermittent or occur daily.

At this time, there is no specific treatment for degenerative arthritis. Some people find relief from various modalities including rest, exercise, weight reduction, physical and occupational therapy, and certain medications. Medication may be used topically, taken orally, or injected into the joints to decrease joint inflammation and pain.