Written by Daniel M. Scarbrough, M.D. | Monthly Series
This month, let’s discuss osteoarthritis. This is the most common joint disease and is often called degenerative joint disease (D.J.D.). It is caused by a breakdown of the cartilage in the joint. D.J.D. is more common in older people, women, people who are overweight, and those with family members who have it.
The most common symptom, of course, is joint pain. It is mostly in the hands, feet, hips, knees, or spine. In the hand, it often affects the joint at the base of the thumb and the distal joints of the fingers. In the foot, it is usually at the base of the big toe. The knee can show swelling, bony enlargement, and malalignment when there is advanced disease. The pain can be worse after periods of rest, like when you first get up in the morning or when you get up out of a chair. D.J.D. limits motion because of the pain and stiffness and can make it difficult to do every day activities such as walking or opening a jar.
D.J.D. is treated with medicines, supplements, exercise, weight loss, and occasionally surgery when the symptoms do not get better with other treatments. Acetaminophen (Tylenol), which you can buy over-the-counter is safe and inexpensive when used correctly. Also, ibuprofen (Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) are both anti-inflammatory drugs that you can get over the counter and may help. Dietary supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin may also help, but they must be taken together. Your doctor may prescribe other anti-inflammatory drugs, but be sure to tell him about any side effects. Sometimes, an intrajoint injection of steroids or hyaluronic acid will help. Low-impact exercise like riding a bike and swimming will help you get back some of the motion you have lost.
If you are overweight, you should lose weight, as this takes pressure off the joints and can lessen pain and stiffness. If these treatments do not help, your doctor may recommend surgery with artificial joints. This gives excellent pain relief and can last 15-20 years. See your doctor for these more advanced therapies.
About Dr. Daniel M. Scarbrough, M.D.
Founder, Chairman of the Board & Medical Director
As a physician, Dr. Scarbrough has more than 30 years’ experience of caring for the elderly; including medical and mental illness, having been responsible for the medical care of thousands of both hospital and nursing home patients. On July 1, 1997, he became the full-time Medical Director of Community Health Systems and its affiliates.