Osteoarthritis

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is also known as degenerative joint disease. It is a condition in which the protective cartilage that cushions the tops of bones degenerates, or wears down. This causes swelling and pain. It may also cause the development of osteophytes, or bone spurs. Sometimes, osteoarthritis produces spurs that put pressure on the nerves leaving the spinal column. This can cause weakness and pain in the arms or legs.

What Causes Osteoarthritis?

In general, osteoarthritis happens as people get older. Younger people may get it from injury or trauma to a joint, or a genetic defect involving cartilage. For people younger than age 45, osteoarthritis is more common among men. After age 45, osteoarthritis is more common among women. Osteoarthritis occurs more often among people who are overweight. It also occurs more frequently in those who have jobs or do sports that put repetitive stress on certain joints.

Osteoarthritis and Artificial Disc Replacement

The surgeons at ONZ Spine are experienced and meticulous while using fluoroscopic and microscopic imaging technology for accurate removal of osteophytes during Artificial Disc Replacement surgery. During surgery, our surgeons check the foramen and spinal canal to ensure that they are free of all osteophytes and residual fragments and debris. We also try to use the largest artificial disc footprint (circumference of the endplates of the artificial disc) available which will help prevent osteophytes from forming around the implant in the future.

What is Osteoarthritis?

What Causes Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis and Artificial Disc Replacement

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