How To Delay The Progress Of Degenerative Arthritis

Degenerative arthritis is a type of arthritis that commonly affects millions of people worldwide. In fact, next to rheumatoid arthritis, this is the next most common form of arthritis that never fails to make people suffer from pain on a daily basis. Usually, degenerative arthritis happens when the cartilage that is supposed to act as a shock absorber to the bones decrease. Because of this, parts of our body that beats weight such as hips ( for women) and knees often get affected by degenerative arthritis especially for those who are overweight. Daily activities such as walking and climbing stairs gives our joints a beating that we often ignore until the time pain is felt.



Degenerative arthritis can affect people who are in their mid-40s, especially men. In the United States alone, 20 million people suffer from degenerative arthritis according to a report from the national health department. As the cartilage wear out, spurs or small new bones develop that is actually greatly responsible for the pain in this type of arthritis. The swelling causes pain and as a response the cartilage produces new bone growth. The rubbing bones definitely amplifies the pain felt by the person suffering from degenerative arthritis.



Although more often than not, doctors are often perplexed by the cause of OA to a person especially when there is no history of previous trauma which is why it is referred to as primary osteoarthritis. Nevertheless, obesity is a main contributing factor to OA since excess body weight puts so much strain on the joints. When obesity becomes the main culprit, it is now referred to as secondary osteoarthritis.



Degenerative arthritis is also known as Osteoarthritis (OA) since the situation worsens as cartilage becomes worn out. In fact, there is no way yet to stop the progressing of this ailment although some supplements and medication may be able to reduce the pain and swelling as well. Usually, doctors advice people with OA to lose weight and continue moderate physical exercise. Also, physical therapy as well as weight training exercises that strengthen affected body parts may help delay the progress of degenerative arthritis. In conclusion, degenerative arthritis cannot be stopped but its progress can be delayed by taking some precautions advised by the doctor.