Lumbar Degenerative Joint Disease
Lumbar degenerative joint disease, also called “osteoarthritis,” affects millions of people in America. This disease is caused by the wear and tear of the cartilage. Osteoarthritis of the spine can also affect different joints in the body, such as those in the hands, knees, hips, and cervical spine.
Causes of Lumbar Degenerative Joint Disease
While there are many causes of back pain, the most common cause is a disorder of the lumbar intervertebral discs. Just like degenerated disc disease, the lumbar degenerative joint disease specifically affects the facet joints, the cartilage between the bones that make up the spine, and the ligaments in the spine.
As you age, these cartilages coating the facet joints can gradually wear away. Your intervertebral discs are made mainly of water. These lumbar spine discs can dehydrate as you become older. This can cause the discs in your spine to narrow and put high pressure on facet joints.
Symptoms of Lumbar Degenerative Joint Disease
The symptoms of the degenerative joint disease will depend on the location of the joint and its affected areas. Some of the common symptoms associated with this disease include:
- Pain and tenderness.
- Muscle spasm or a pinched nerve.
- Loss of motion.
- Standing and walking can be difficult.
- Loss of the normal lumbar curvature.
- Stiffness in the joints.
- Pain with excess activity.
- Localized swelling at the joint.
Treatments of Lumbar Degenerative Joint
Treatment of degenerative joint disease or injury will depend upon its condition. When spine surgeons are treating spine problems, they use different treatment options, including both conventional and surgical.
Conventional Treatments
- Rest.
- Application of ice or heat therapy.
- Exercise.
- Anti-inflammatory drugs and pain medication.
Surgical Treatments
If conventional treatments fail to resolve the issue and alleviate pain, the neuro-spine specialists at CMW, offer minimally invasive procedures like:
- Facet Joint Injections.
- Lumbar Spinal Fusion Surgery.
- Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery.
Need help finding a doctor who gives you the best neuro spine care in New Jersey? Call us now and schedule your appointment today.
FAQ’S
What Are the Symptoms of Lumbar Degenerative Joint Disease?
The symptoms of the degenerative joint disease will depend on the location of the joint and its affected areas. Some of the common symptoms associated with this disease include:
- Pain and tenderness.
- Muscle spasm or a pinched nerve.
- Loss of motion.
- Standing and walking can be difficult.
- Loss of the normal lumbar curvature.
- Stiffness in the joints.
- Pain with excess activity.
- Localized swelling at the joint.
Can You Become Paralyzed From Degenerative Disc Disease?
- If the condition gets severe and nerve roots start damaging, then ultimately, the process of disc herniation is initiated.
- In such cases, there is a higher risk of you getting paralyzed.
Can You Live a Normal Life With Degenerative Disc Disease?
- We recommend you to not give up in case you are diagnosed with degenerative disc disease.
- You can relieve your pain by adopting a healthy lifestyle.
Does Walking Help Degenerative Disc Disease?
- You can walk and do moderate stretching exercises to achieve balanced movement.
- Avoid high impact activities as they may increase the damage.
