Degenerative Joint Disease
Your Joints Can Change With Age-That Doesn't Mean You Have to Stop Moving
Hearing you have Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) can be discouraging. Many people immediately think they'll have to live with constant pain or give up the activities they enjoy.The reality is often more encouraging.
While degenerative joint changes can't be reversed, many people continue to live active, fulfilling lives by improving the way their joints move, strengthening the muscles that support them, and staying physically active.
At Bilan Chiropractic, our goal is to help you move with greater comfort and confidence-not simply focus on your X-rays.
Could Degenerative Joint Disease Be Causing Your Symptoms?
DJD can affect almost any joint in the body.Common symptoms include:
- Joint stiffness
- Pain during or after activity
- Reduced flexibility
- Grinding or clicking sensations
- Swelling around a joint
- Neck or back pain
- Hip, knee, or shoulder discomfort
- Difficulty with everyday movements
What Is Degenerative Joint Disease?
Degenerative Joint Disease-also called osteoarthritis-occurs when the protective cartilage within a joint gradually changes over time.As cartilage becomes thinner, surrounding joints and muscles often work harder to keep you moving. That can contribute to stiffness, muscle tension, and changes in the way your body moves.
It's important to remember that many people have arthritic changes on imaging without significant pain.
Your diagnosis is only one part of the picture.
Why Staying Active Matters
When a joint becomes painful, it's natural to avoid using it.Unfortunately, less movement can lead to weaker muscles, reduced flexibility, and even more stiffness.
That's why we encourage movement whenever it's safe and appropriate.
Helping a joint move more efficiently may reduce unnecessary stress and make everyday activities feel easier.
Our Approach
Every patient experiences degenerative joint disease differently.Following a thorough evaluation, your care may include:
- Chiropractic adjustments when appropriate
- Gentle joint mobilization
- Soft tissue therapy
- Stretching and flexibility exercises
- Strengthening recommendations
- Balance and stability training
- Postural coaching
- Lifestyle and ergonomic guidance
Your First Visit
We'll begin by discussing your symptoms, activity level, previous imaging, and what you'd like to get back to doing.Your examination may include:
- Joint mobility assessment
- Functional movement evaluation
- Orthopedic testing
- Neurological screening
- Posture analysis
- Range-of-motion testing
Why Patients Choose Bilan Chiropractic
A diagnosis doesn't define you.Our goal isn't simply to identify arthritic changes-it's to understand how those changes affect your movement and daily life.
By focusing on function rather than fear, we help patients build confidence, stay active, and continue doing the things they enjoy.
Is degenerative joint disease the same as osteoarthritis?
A. Yes. Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) is another name commonly used for osteoarthritis.
Can chiropractic care reverse arthritis?
A. No. Chiropractic care cannot reverse joint degeneration, but it may help improve mobility, reduce muscle tension, and support joint function.
Is it safe to stay active with DJD?
A. For many people, yes. Appropriate movement is often one of the best ways to maintain joint health and function.
Why do my X-rays look worse than I feel?
A. Joint changes seen on imaging don't always match a person's symptoms. Some people have significant arthritis with little pain, while others have more discomfort despite milder changes.
Will I eventually need joint replacement surgery?
A. Not everyone with DJD requires surgery. Many people successfully manage their symptoms for years with conservative care, exercise, and lifestyle modifications.