By Tracy Hartley, PT, DPT Degenerative Joint Disease at a Glance
Osteoarthritis is the number one cause of degenerative joint
disease leading to disability in America, especially in the
elderly. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis
leading to degenerative joint disease. Degenerative joint
disease (DJD) is a condition in which joint surfaces deteriorate
causing pain and functional limitations. The joint surfaces
exposed to weight bearing have a higher incidence of joint
disease. DJD treatment options to date have mostly targeted the
relief of pain rather than slowing or reversing the progression
of the disease process. Masking the Arthritic Pain Medication
options for DJD pain control are available but have no effect on
the disease process. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is the most widely
used drug for pain relief. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and
naproxen (Naprosyn) are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDS)
medications also commonly used for DJD pain control and are
available over the counter and in