By Healthesystems
Degenerative conditions can be defined as illnesses that cause a progressive breakdown of cells, tissues, or organs over time, leading to a decline in function. These conditions can affect various parts of the body, but when discussed in the context of workers’ comp, “degenerative conditions” often refers to such conditions of the musculoskeletal variety.
While different degenerative conditions may have varying causes, the prevalence of these conditions increases with age and the wear and tear of the human body, sometimes tied to certain repetitive motions over a significant period of time.
Delineating between a work-related injury and a degenerative comorbid condition can be difficult, but data from the Workers Compensation Research Institute make it clear that the presence of degenerative conditions within claims can significantly impact claims outcomes and costs.
Here are six common degenerative conditions impacting injured workers:
#1. Osteoarthritis
According to the Centers for Disease Control, Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis and causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, usually in the hands, hips, back, or knees. OA can develop when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time, causing bone to rub on bone. Over time, OA can lead to changes in bone, cartilage, and other joint tissues, resulting in disability or making it hard for someone to do work or daily tasks.
#2. Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone mineral density and bone mass decreases, leading to a decline in bone strength that can increase the risk of fractures, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Sometimes osteoporosis does not have symptoms and may go unnoticed until a fracture occurs. However, once bones have been weakened by osteoporosis, signs and symptoms can include back pain, a loss of height over time, and a stooped posture.
#3. Degenerative Disc Disease
Also known as intervertebral disc degeneration, degenerative disc disease (DDD) is arthritis of the spine, where cartilage has worn out. The Mayo Clinic explains that this allows the soft discs in the vertebrae to partially dry out and shrink, narrowing the space between the vertebrae and making the spine less stable. This decreases flexibility and can cause pain, weakness, or numbness. It is known to cause sharp pain that can worsen with activity, as well as soreness and sometimes tingling. However, sometimes DDD can be undetected if it hasn’t yet caused pain. While DDD primarily affects the neck and lower back, it can extend to arms, hands, feet, and legs.
#4. Sarcopenia
Sarcopenia is an age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function that can result in decreased mobility and an increased risk of adverse outcomes including falls, fractures, and premature mortality. According to a National Library of Medicine article, sarcopenia most commonly affects elderly and sedentary populations, as well as patients who have comorbidities that affect the musculoskeletal system or make physical activity difficult.
#5. Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. While there can sometimes be no symptoms, the inflammation caused by spinal stenosis can result in pain, numbness, and weakness to the back, neck, and limbs. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases notes that while anyone can get spinal stenosis, the chances of developing it increase with age.
#6. Spondylosis
Spondylosis is the age-related wear and tear of spinal discs, impacting the neck, mid-back, and lower back. Symptoms can include pain; stiffness; compression of neural structures; tingling, numbness and weakness in arms, hands, legs, or feet; a loss of bladder or bowel control; a lack of coordination; and difficulty walking. According to the Mayo Clinic, more than 85% of people over age 60 are affected by cervical spondylosis.
Want to Learn More?
For more information, including causes and risk factors of degenerative conditions as well as management strategies, read our RxInformer article, Wear and Tear: A Breakdown of Degenerative Comorbid Conditions.
