Joint Disease

by Stephanie Puckett

Overview

Joint disease, or osteoarthritis, is a medical condition that can effects the joints. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this disease, and it can cause those who suffer from it extreme difficulty in daily activities.
Causes

The exact cause of this condition has not been concluded, but there are suspicions of aging, genes, obesity and joint injury playing a large part in the development of this condition.

Effects

Unfortunately, this condition worsens with time. Many people may experience permanent disability from this condition. In some cases, joint replacement surgery is recommended by doctors.
Risks

Women and those who are older have a higher chance of this condition. Other risk factors include obesity, bone abnormalities and joint injury.
Symptoms

Some of the symptoms of osteoarthritis include joint pain, tender joints, swelling, joint stiffness and inflexible joints.
Treatment

Treatments typically include pain medication such as acetaminophen and corticosteroid medications. The strength and type of the medication depends on the severity of the condition.