Degenerative Joint and Bone Disease
Degenerative joint and bone disease, or osteoarthritis, is wear and tear on the joint that gradually worsens over time. The most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis, affects about 27 million Americans. This type of degenerative joint and bone disease may occur in the knees, hips, lower back, neck, and small joint of the fingers. Seeing your Dignity Health doctor early, when symptoms first start, can help slow the progression of osteoarthritis.
At St. Joseph's Medical Center, our orthopedic doctors specialize in the care and treatment of joint conditions like degenerative joint and bone disease around Stockton and surrounding areas.
Degenerative Joint & Bone Disease Causes
Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis. The main one is aging. Osteoarthritis can start in middle age, but it is most common in people older than 65.
Other risk factors for osteoporosis are:
- A family history of osteoarthritis
- Being overweight or obese
- Chronic stress on your joints from your job, sports, or other activities
- Previous joint injuries
Degenerative Joint & Bone Disease Symptoms
If you have osteoarthritis, the cartilage covering the bones in your joint gradually wears away. Without this protective buffer, your bones can rub directly against each other, causing pain and swelling.
Other symptoms of osteoarthritis may include:
- Joint stiffness
- Limited range of motion
- Bump or deformity of the joint
- Creaking or grinding of the joint when you move
Trusted Degenerative Joint & Bone Disease Treatment at Dignity Health
Your experienced doctor may recommend anti-inflammatory medicines, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, or surgery to treat osteoarthritis. You and your doctor will discuss all your options to understand the best treatment plan for your lifestyle. If lifestyle changes are started early, it’s often possible to slow down joint degeneration.
Rely on our expert orthopedic services and advanced treatment options to improve your joint pain.
Dignity Health specializes in treating degenerative bone and joint diseases in Stockton and the surrounding areas.
Learn more
If you need care for a recent shoulder injury or an ongoing condition that is limiting movement in your shoulder, call our Orthopedic Navigator at (209) 547-5700 for more information or to schedule an appointment In addition to advanced diagnostic testing, our orthopedic services include a wide array of treatments for shoulder injuries around the Stockton area.