Staying Mobile with Degenerative Joint Disease

When every step feels heavier than the last, and even climbing stairs brings discomfort, it may be more than aging — it could be degenerative joint disease. Degenerative joint disease, also known as osteoarthritis, is the most common form of arthritis and one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. The condition gradually wears down cartilage — the smooth tissue that cushions the ends of bones — leaving patients with stiffness, swelling and pain that can make everyday movements increasingly difficult.

MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center is raising awareness about the impact of this disease and offering practical strategies to help patients stay active, mobile and pain-free.

“Degenerative joint disease develops gradually, often starting with stiffness or discomfort that people dismiss as normal aging. But without proper diagnosis and care, the condition can progress and truly limit a person’s independence and quality of life.”

- Timothy W. Gibson, M.D., medical director, MemorialCare Joint Replacement Center, Orange Coast Medical Center

What is Degenerative Joint Disease?

Degenerative joint disease occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions joints begins to break down. Without this cushion, bones can rub against each other, leading to pain, inflammation and decreased flexibility. The condition most often affects the hips, knees, spine and hands.

More than 32 million Americans are currently living with osteoarthritis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). That number is expected to rise as the population ages, making degenerative joint disease one of the most pressing health concerns for older adults.

Dr. Gibson said many patients live with symptoms for years before seeking medical attention. “I often hear people say they just tried to tough it out or push through the pain. But over time, untreated joint disease doesn’t just limit mobility. It can impact emotional health, sleep quality and even social activities.”

Recognizing the Symptoms

The disease usually develops gradually, and symptoms may come and go before becoming more persistent. Warning signs include:

• Ongoing joint pain during or after movement
• Stiffness, especially in the morning or after resting
• Swelling and tenderness around the joint
• Loss of flexibility or range of motion
• A grating or grinding sensation when moving

Left untreated, these symptoms can intensify, making routine tasks such as climbing stairs, bending down, walking or even gripping objects difficult.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

One of the most important factors in slowing joint damage is catching the disease early. Dr. Gibson stresses that early diagnosis allows physicians to preserve joint function and delay the need for surgery.

“Waiting too long can lead to more significant joint damage and fewer treatment options,” he said. “When we diagnose degenerative joint disease early, we can often manage it with non-surgical therapies, keeping patients active and independent much longer.”

- Dr. Gibson

Diagnostic tools such as X-rays, MRIs and physical exams help determine the stage of the disease and guide treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.

Strategies to Stay Mobile and Reduce Pain

MemorialCare Orthopedic & Spine Institute experts recommend starting with conservative approaches before considering surgery. Practical strategies include:

• Exercise regularly: Low-impact activities like walking, swimming and cycling help strengthen muscles and reduce joint stress.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Carrying excess pounds increases pressure on hips and knees, accelerating joint wear.
• Consider physical therapy: Structured therapy programs improve strength, flexibility and balance, while teaching safe movement strategies.
• Use medications wisely: Over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory medications may help reduce pain and swelling.
• Explore injections and supports: Corticosteroid injections, braces and supportive devices can provide temporary relief and stability.

“Many patients benefit from these non-surgical treatments for years before we even think about surgery. It’s about tailoring the plan to each person’s lifestyle and goals.”

- Dr. Gibson

Advances in Joint Surgical Specialty Care

For patients with advanced disease who no longer respond to conservative treatments, joint replacement surgery is often the best option to restore mobility and relieve pain. MemorialCare Orthopedic & Spine Institute offers a wide range of procedures, including robotic-assisted joint replacement using the Mako robotic arm-assisted surgery system. This advanced technology enables surgeons to develop a personalized surgical plan based on each patient’s unique anatomy and is available for partial knee, total knee and total hip replacements.

Using detailed imaging and diagnostics, surgeons determine the most appropriate procedure for each individual. For example, a younger athlete may benefit from a partial knee replacement, which targets only the damaged portion of the joint while preserving healthy bone and tissue. Mako’s precision enhances surgical accuracy and supports faster recovery.

“Mako provides real-time guidance during surgery and gives us an unparalleled level of accuracy,” said Dr. Gibson. “That precision helps us preserve more healthy bone and soft tissue while replacing only what’s damaged. Patients benefit with less pain, quicker recovery and a more natural-feeling joint.”

By offering a full spectrum of options, MemorialCare ensures patients receive the procedure best suited to their condition—whether it’s a partial knee replacement for localized damage or a total hip replacement for more advanced deterioration. This personalized approach helps patients return to their everyday activities sooner, from gardening and exercising to playing with grandchildren.

Living Well with Degenerative Joint Disease

Although degenerative joint disease is a chronic condition, it doesn’t have to dictate how people live their lives. With proactive care, patients can maintain independence and enjoy their favorite activities.

“Don’t ignore persistent pain or stiffness. If joint pain is keeping you from the things you love, that’s the time to see a specialist. The sooner you get evaluated, the more options you’ll have to protect your mobility and quality of life.”

- Dr. Gibson

Dr. Gibson noted that many patients are surprised at how much better they feel once they begin treatment. “Whether it’s lifestyle changes, physical therapy or joint replacement surgery, our goal is always the same — to keep patients moving and living the life they want.”

MemorialCare Orthopedic & Spine Institute's Approach to Joint Health

MemorialCare Orthopedic and Spine Institute at Orange Coast Medical Center offers comprehensive care, from diagnosis and conservative treatments to advanced surgical procedures. The centers focus on patient-centered care, innovative technology and outpatient recovery to achieve the best possible outcomes.

“Every patient is unique,” Dr. Gibson said. “We take the time to understand their goals, whether it’s returning to sports, playing with grandchildren or simply walking without pain. Our team is committed to helping each person find the right path forward.”

Take the First Step

Orange Coast Medical Center encourages anyone experiencing ongoing joint pain to seek medical evaluation. Early action can slow disease progression, reduce pain and preserve mobility. To learn more about joint care at Orange Coast Medical Center call (714) 378-7264.

About Timothy W. Gibson, M.D., medical director, MemorialCare Joint Replacement Center, Orange Coast Medical Center

Dr. Timothy W. Gibson is a board certified orthopedic surgeon at Orange Coast Medical Center. He has expertise in all aspects of arthritis treatment including arthroscopic surgery and joint replacement. He also specializes in sports medicine. Dr. Gibson has additional expertise and certification to perform robotic-arm assisted total knee, partial knee and hip replacement with the Mako system available at Orange Coast Medical Center. Mako is advanced robotic technology and an innovative tool that helps surgeons create a personalized surgical plan based on each patient’s unique anatomy and perform joint replacement surgery with increased accuracy. The target outcomes are reduced pain, quicker recoveries with patients returning to active lifestyles.

Dr. Gibson acquired his undergraduate degree at the University of California at Irvine, and completed medical school at UCLA. After completing his orthopedic residency at the LA County USC Medical Center, he completed his fellowship training at the San Diego Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine Fellowship.

He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, and is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.