Features

• Cartilage is the connective tissue around the joints that keeps the joints flowing freely as the body moves. Degenerative joint disease wears cartilage down over time; as the cartilage breaks down, movement of the affected joint becomes more difficult.
  
  

Symptoms

• Symptoms include inflammation, stiffness, swelling, crackling or grinding sound when using the joint, pain and loss of mobility. Pain and stiffness are usually most notable in the morning.
  
  

Treatment

• Treatment options include ibuprofen, rest, weight management and gentle exercise such as stretching. Severe cases may require stronger pain medications or steroid injections. Surgery may be required to replace a diseased joint.
  
  

Significance

• As people age, they may develop some form of degenerative joint disease. Genetics or injury to a joint increase a person's susceptibility.
  
  

Considerations

• Women are more likely to develop degenerative joint disease than men.
  
  

Warning

• A person who experiences an increase in pain or disability should see a doctor immediately.