Arthritis (Osteoarthritis / OA) is a Degenerative Joint Disease and Generally Refers to Wear-and-Tear on a Joint
The disorder usually is precipitated by trauma, but can also be caused by other entities such as:
- metabolic abnormalities
- infections, tumors
- congenital or acquired deformities.
This disorder is progressive.
X-rays are extremely useful in determining the severity of degenerative joint disease, however they do not always correlate with clinical symptoms.
Early Treatment of Arthritis Revolves Around The Following Remedies
- motion control or immobilization
- anti-inflammatory medication
- ice
- rest
- elevation
- compression
- and behavior modification
Surgical Intervention of Arthritis Includes, But May Not Be Limited To
- salvage procedures to “clean-up” the joint
- joint replacement
- and arthrodesis (fusion) of the joint to stop painful motion
This disorder can affect any joint including the ankle, subtalar joint, midfoot joints, and toe joints. The great-toe joint is commonly afflicted.