Degenerative Arthritis: Treatment Options and Pain Relief

Degenerative arthritis of the spine

I would like to ask the doctor, I was diagnosed with a herniated disc at the age of 14, and recently, due to persistent pain, I considered surgery.
However, after undergoing an MRI at the hospital, I discovered that I have degenerative arthritis of the spine, which is causing me daily pain.
The discs between my L4 and L5 vertebrae have almost completely lost their fluid, resulting in minimal space.
I am only 25 years old, but the doctor mentioned that my spine resembles that of a 40 to 50-year-old.
Is there a surgical option to address degenerative arthritis? Additionally, my knees and arms make cracking sounds and also experience pain when I move.
How can I slow down the degeneration of my bones?

Xuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/24

Dr. Cai Shanglin reply Orthopedics

Hello, online friend.
There are many causes of lower back pain, and statistics show that 90% of cases are related to soft tissue issues, commonly referred to as "muscle strain." Sports injuries, excessive fatigue, poor posture, or high levels of stress can all contribute to discomfort.
If the pain significantly affects your daily life, moderate use of anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications or physical therapy may help.
If you experience symptoms of nerve compression, such as numbness in your toes or the top of your foot, and conservative treatment does not improve your condition, surgical intervention should be considered.
At 25 years old, you likely do not have issues with bone density or joint degeneration.
Engaging in moderate exercise can help maintain muscle and joint flexibility.
Wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2021/07/24

More Info

Degenerative arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints deteriorates over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. Given your situation, where you have been diagnosed with degenerative arthritis at a young age, it is understandable that you are seeking effective treatment options to manage your pain and improve your quality of life.

Surgical Options for Degenerative Arthritis
1. Surgical Intervention: In cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgery may be considered. However, the type of surgery depends on the severity of the arthritis and the specific joints involved. Common surgical options include:
- Arthroscopy: This minimally invasive procedure allows surgeons to clean out the joint space, remove loose fragments, and sometimes repair damaged cartilage.

- Osteotomy: This involves cutting and reshaping the bones to relieve pressure on the joint.

- Joint Replacement: In severe cases, total or partial joint replacement may be necessary. This is more common in weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.

2. Spinal Surgery: Given your diagnosis of degenerative arthritis in the spine, surgical options may include:
- Discectomy: Removal of the damaged disc material that may be pressing on nerves.

- Spinal Fusion: This procedure involves fusing two or more vertebrae together to stabilize the spine and reduce pain.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Before considering surgery, there are several non-surgical treatment options that can help manage symptoms:
1. Physical Therapy: Engaging in a structured physical therapy program can help strengthen the muscles around the affected joints, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise regimen tailored to your needs.

2. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications or corticosteroid injections directly into the joint.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce stress on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips. Incorporating low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, can also help maintain joint function without exacerbating pain.

4. Alternative Therapies: Some individuals find relief through acupuncture, massage therapy, or chiropractic care. These therapies can complement traditional treatments and provide additional pain relief.

5. Dietary Considerations: A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish), fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, may help reduce inflammation and improve joint health.

Addressing Joint Sounds and Pain
The "cracking" or "popping" sounds you hear in your knees and arms during movement are often harmless and can be attributed to gas bubbles in the joint fluid or the movement of ligaments and tendons. However, if accompanied by pain, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues.

Conclusion
In summary, while surgical options exist for degenerative arthritis, they are typically considered after conservative treatments have been exhausted. It is crucial to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your specific symptoms and lifestyle. Regular follow-ups and adjustments to your treatment plan may be necessary as your condition evolves. Remember, early intervention and a proactive approach can significantly improve your quality of life and help manage the symptoms of degenerative arthritis effectively.

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