How Is Degenerative Joint Disease Diagnosed?

Imaging — Common tests that doctors run include

X-rays, MRIs and joint aspiration

. X-rays check the extent of bone damage. MRIs give a view of the cartilage and joints condition. Joint aspiration helps rule out other arthritis forms or conditions.

How do you test for degenerative joint disease?

1. Blood tests. Although there’s no blood test for osteoarthritis, certain tests can help rule out other causes of joint pain, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
2. Joint fluid analysis. Your doctor might use a needle to draw fluid from an affected joint.

What is the difference between osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease?

Osteoarthritis is sometimes referred to as

degenerative arthritis

or degenerative joint disease. It is the most common type of arthritis because it’s often caused by the wear and tear on a joint over a lifetime. It is most often found in the hands, knees, hips and spine.

What is the most common degenerative joint disease?

Osteoarthritis (OA)

is the most common form of arthritis. Some people call it degenerative joint disease or “wear and tear” arthritis. It occurs most frequently in the hands, hips, and knees.

What’s the best treatment for degenerative joint disease?

Treating Degenerative Joint Disease

There are many non-surgical treatments for degenerative joint disease. Most sufferers of osteoarthritis try a variety of options to ease symptoms, including icing, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs),

corticosteroid injections, therapy, bracing, massage, and acupuncture

.

Does walking worsen osteoarthritis?

Doctor’s Response. Exercise, including walking, can be beneficial for

osteoarthritis

patients. Exercise can help to reduce pain and increase quality of life. Lack of exercise can lead to more joint stiffness, muscle weakness and tightness, and loss of joint motion.

What are the 4 stages of osteoarthritis?

• Stage 1 – Minor. Minor wear-and-tear in the joints. Little to no pain in the affected area.
• Stage 2 – Mild. More noticeable bone spurs. …
• Stage 3 – Moderate. Cartilage in the affected area begins to erode. …
• Stage 4 – Severe. The patient is in a lot of pain.

What can be done about degenerative joint disease?

Typical treatments for degenerative joint disease

Treatment may consist of taking

nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS)

, using hot and cold compresses on the affected joints, doing low-impact exercise, strengthening the joints, and other non-surgical remedies. Some people get relief by altering their lifestyle.

How do you slow down degenerative joint disease?

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight. Excess weight puts additional pressure on weight-bearing joints, such as the hips and knees. …
2. Control Blood Sugar. …
3. Get Physical. …
4. Protect Joints. …
5. Choose a Healthy Lifestyle.

Does degenerative joint disease qualify for disability?

Osteoarthritis/Degenerative Joint Disease can cause pain and other symptoms that can impact your ability to work. Social Security Disability benefits may be available to you if you are diagnosed with OA/DJD.

Is there a difference between degenerative joint disease and arthritis?

Arthritis is a general term that means inflammation in joints. Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, is the most common type of arthritis. It is associated with a breakdown of cartilage in joints and can occur in almost any joint in the body.

What is end stage osteoarthritis?

Eventually, at the end stage of arthritis,

the articular cartilage wears away completely and bone on bone contact occurs

. The vast majority of people diagnosed have osteoarthritis and in most cases the cause of their condition cannot be identified. One or more joints may be affected.

Does arthritis hurt all the time?

Many people who have arthritis or a related disease may be living with chronic pain. Pain is chronic when it lasts three to six months or longer, but

arthritis pain can last a lifetime

. It may be constant, or it may come and go.

What are the 5 worst foods to eat if you have arthritis?

• Trans Fats. Trans fats should be avoided since they can trigger or worsen inflammation and are very bad for your cardiovascular health. …
• Gluten. …
• Refined Carbs & White Sugar. …
• Processed & Fried Foods. …
• Nuts. …
• Garlic & Onions. …
• Beans. …
• Citrus Fruit.

Can degenerative joint disease be reversed?

Osteoarthritis symptoms can usually be managed, although

the damage to joints can’t be reversed

. Staying active, maintaining a healthy weight and receiving certain treatments might slow progression of the disease and help improve pain and joint function.

What is the best painkiller for osteoarthritis?

Pills.

NSAIDs

are the most effective oral medicines for OA. They include ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) naproxen (Aleve) and diclofenac (Voltaren, others). All work by blocking enzymes that cause pain and swelling.