Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD)

A doctor may have told you that you have degenerative joint disease (DJD). It is also known as osteoarthritis. This is a type of arthritis that affects 80-90% of the population. It is characterized by the breakdown and eventual loss of the cartilage between the joints. Once DJD begins it is a process like rust. It will continue from phase I to phase IV which is total joint fusion. In order to help stop, or slow down, the progression of DJD, GCSM recommends:

1. Omega 3’s: i.e. Cold water fish oils

2. For joint lubrication.

3. Chondroitin Sulfate and Glucosamine

4. Chondroitin Sulfate: building blocks for joint repair.

5. Glucosamine: slows down deterioration of joint surfaces.

6. Eliminate specific activities that are causing further degradation of the joints.

7. Maintain function and motion of the joint as well as joint decompression by:

8. Adjustments

9. Traction

10. Massage

11. Exercise: i.e. yoga, swimming

12. Moist heat [when deemed necessary]

13. i.e. Jacuzzi, bath, whirlpool, wet sauna, moist hot pack.