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🦴 Arthritis & Degenerative Conditions These terms refer to disorders that progressively damage the joints, cartilage, bones, and connective tissues, leading to pain, stiffness, loss of mobility, and functional impairment over time. 🔍 Overview Arthritis A group of conditions characterized by joint inflammation, leading to pain and stiffness. Common Types: Osteoarthritis (OA) – Most common; due to wear-and-tear of cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) – Autoimmune; immune system attacks joint lining. Psoriatic arthritis – Linked to psoriasis. Gout – Caused by uric acid crystal buildup. Juvenile arthritis – Affects children. Degenerative Conditions These are chronic, progressive disorders involving the deterioration of tissues, often beyond just the joints. Common Examples: Degenerative disc disease – Intervertebral discs lose height and elasticity, leading to back or neck pain. Spinal stenosis – Narrowing of the spinal canal compresses nerves. Spondylosis – Age-related changes in the spine (can affect neck or back). Meniscal degeneration – Breakdown of knee cartilage over time. Rotator cuff degeneration – Shoulder tendon wear leading to weakness and pain. 🧬 Causes & Risk Factors Age – Most common factor Genetics – Family history increases risk Injury – Prior trauma or overuse Obesity – Adds mechanical stress to joints Autoimmunity – Immune system misfires (e.g., RA, lupus) Lifestyle – Poor posture, inactivity, repetitive strain 🩺 Diagnosis Physical exam – Joint tenderness, swelling, range of motion X-rays / MRI / CT – Detect joint damage or degeneration Blood tests – Inflammatory markers (RA, autoimmune arthritis) Joint aspiration – Examines joint fluid for infection or crystals 💊 Treatment Options Conservative Physical therapy NSAIDs or corticosteroids Activity modification Joint injections (e.g., corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid) Weight loss & nutrition Assistive devices (braces, walkers) Surgical Arthroscopy – Minimally invasive cleanup of joints Joint replacement – Hips, knees, shoulders (for end-stage arthritis) Spinal fusion or disc replacement Osteotomy – Realigns bones to offload joint pressure 🌱 Emerging & Regenerative Therapies Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections Stem cell therapy Biologic drugs – Especially for autoimmune arthritis (e.g., TNF inhibitors) Gene therapy (experimental) 🤝 Specialists Involved Rheumatologists – For medical management Orthopedic surgeons – For surgical interventions Physiatrists (PM&R) – Rehabilitation and pain management Physical/occupational therapists