Degenerative joint disease treatment usually begins with a combination of conservative, nonsurgical methods designed to manage the patient’s symptoms, rather than thoroughly addressing their underlying cause. Some of these treatments may include medication for pain and inflammation, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy and any necessary lifestyle modifications, including weight loss.

Natural treatment options for degenerative joint disease

In addition to the conservative methods of degenerative joint disease treatment mentioned above, some patients choose to explore more natural, alternative treatments. While these methods are not widely accepted throughout the medical community, many individuals have reported significant pain relief through the use of:

1. Massage. Massage therapy can help to relax stiff muscles surrounding the spine.
2. Acupuncture. By inserting thin needles into specific points on the patient’s body, acupuncture stimulates nearby nerves and helps to promote the body’s natural healing process.
3. Chiropractic manipulation. A chiropractor manually adjusts an individual’s spine.
4. Herbal supplements. Many natural herbs like oregano and cinnamon are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce some of the pain associated with degenerative joint disease.

Degenerative joint disease surgery

In the event that the aforementioned conservative and alternative degenerative joint disease treatments are insufficient in managing a patient’s pain, his or her physician may recommend surgery. Patients who find themselves in this position should be sure to research the many surgical options available to them in order to find the most appropriate procedure for their unique situation.

Compared to traditional open spine surgery, one alternative is minimally invasive outpatient surgery performed by the board-certified surgeons⁺ at USA Spine Care. Our dedication to minimally invasive spine procedures has made USA Spine Care a leader in the field,^{^} and we have helped more than 75,000 patients get their lives back since 2005. To learn about the specific benefits of our procedures or to find out if you are a candidate for minimally invasive outpatient surgery at USA Spine Care, contact us today.

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