Think of the human body as a complex machine composed of joints and gears, nuts and bolts, levers and pistons. Like all things, time and excessive use can eventually grind and break down even the most advanced machine.
Osteoarthritis (OA), also know as Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD), is a debilitating problem caused by years of wear and tear on the body, most often in the knees, hips, and elbows. OA is the most common form of arthritis, and the leading cause of chronic disability in the United States. As the articular cartilage between bones begins to deteriorate, the bones in the joint will grind together, causing inflammation, swelling, and a great deal of pain.
DJD often begins to take its toll around the age of 40, sooner in more active adults. And although it commonly arises from trauma and overuse, osteoarthritis often affects multiple members of the same family, suggesting that there is hereditary susceptibility to this condition. It can be frustrating to live with OA, especially when it begins to interfere with everyday activities such as walking up stairs.
One of the simplest lifestyle changes to help cope with DJD is to wear sneakers that are very soft and provide support. Another course of action is to try to begin activities that are not as stressful on the joints. If you miss those five-mile runs and feel your knees just aren't up to it, try a change of pace and speed-walk instead. Swimming and other non-weight bearing activities are great replacements for more physical, competitive sports such as tennis.
Most people who suffer from DJD or similar symptoms find relief in applying local heat before, and cold packs after exercise. It has also been found that Glucosamine, an amino sugar, has had some effect in delaying DJD's progression, though its efficacy has come under question as of late.
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