What is degenerative osteoarthritis? Degenerative arthritis, also known as hypertrophic arthritis, is a condition in which some older people often have back pain, leg pain, and joint pain. It is also called senile arthritis because it is mostly seen in older people. Age-related degeneration is the main cause of degenerative arthritis. After middle and old age, all tissues and organs undergo degenerative changes; bone and joint tissues are no exception, and degenerative changes, especially in weight-bearing joints and joints with a lot of activity, are more likely to occur. Excessive weight bearing or overuse of certain joints can promote the onset of degenerative changes. In addition, factors such as intra-articular fractures, diabetes mellitus, and long-term inappropriate use of adrenocorticotropic hormones can promote the formation of degenerative changes and accelerate the development of existing degenerative changes. What are the main symptoms of degenerative arthritis? Joint pain is the main symptom of degenerative arthritis, which is a dull ache that is most pronounced in the morning or after the joint has been in a certain position for a long time and can be relieved with a little activity. The pain is most pronounced in the morning or after the joint has been in a certain position for a long time. Patients feel that the joint is inflexible, which is more obvious after rest. The joints may become stiff and may make a rough grinding sound when moving. These symptoms may worsen as the pathology worsens. In addition to pain, there is localized joint swelling, oozing, muscle atrophy, and even joint deformity and restricted movement. How is degenerative arthritis treated? There is no specific treatment for degenerative arthritis in the Western medical community, but pain can be reduced or even eliminated with appropriate non-surgical treatment and functional exercise. When an acute attack occurs, short-term rest should be given. A splint or cast can be used for temporary immobilization. After an acute attack, appropriate activities and planned functional exercises can be performed. Appropriate exercise in the elderly can strengthen the stability of the joint and slow down the onset of degenerative changes. However, care should be taken to avoid over-activity and chronic injury. A variety of diathermy and manual massage can promote local blood circulation and play a role in relieving pain.