Degenerative Joint Disease

Question 1

Degenerative Joint Disease

Answer 1

• Slow progressive non-inflammatory disorder of mobile joints, particularly weight bearing articulations
• Degeneration of articular cartilage
• Secondary synovitis may result when phagocytic cells try to rid the joint of small pieces of torn cartilage from joint surface

Question 2

Contributing Factors Degenerative Joint Disease

Answer 2

• Age
• Excessive use of or stress on joint
• Genetic factors, congenital structural defects, metabolic disturbance, repeated intraarticular hemorrhage, neuropathic arthropathies and inflammation and septic arthritis

Question 3

Assessment data

Answer 3

1. Increased joint pain on motion and weight bearing that is generally relieved by rest
2. Mild discomfort to severe disability
3. Usually affects joints asymmetrically
4. Joint stiffness after rest
5. Heberden’s nodes
6. Bourchards nodes

Question 4

Diagnostic Studies

Answer 4

X-rays do not correlate well with disease symptoms. No dx tests