Arthritis

Arthritis is a general term covering numerous conditions where the joint surface cartilage wears out. It is also called osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease. This disease affects the surface cartilage, which is the tissue that cushions and protects the ends of bones in a joint and allows smooth, pain free movement. With osteoarthritis, the cartilage starts to wear away over time. As the disease progresses, the cartilage can completely wear away causing bone-on-bone contact. Treatment options include rest, avoidance of vigorous weight bearing activities, and the use of anti inflammatory medications. With worsening symptoms injection therapy can help. When conservative measures have been exhausted, joint replacement surgery may be necessary.