occurrence of degenerative joint disease in the radius: analysis

changes, but the vertebral column was also extensively involved
(Wells, 1964). Based on evidence of DJD affecting the jaw, it
can be hypothesized that the Neandertals of this time period had
a diet composed of tough foods such as roots and nuts.
Although more than likely related to trauma, remains of
ancient Nubians have been recovered with compression injuries to
their necks, due perhaps to the habitual stress of carrying pots
of water on their heads (Wells, 1964). This is a significant
contribution to the literature on DJD, as repeated trauma has
been deemed responsible in many cases for the onset of DJD and
its initial expression.
Joint function and Degenerative Joint Disease
Degenerative joint disease generally has been regarded as a
“wear and tear” phenomenon, or simply as degeneration of
articular cartilage and friction in joint articulation
(Sokoloff, 1969). Radin’s (1993) definition of DJD refers to
mechanically caused joint failure simultaneous with the
destruction of articular cartilage. In more general terms, it
is used in reference to arthritic changes of the joints and
joint surfaces. A medical definition of DJD is presented by
Aufderheide and Rodriguez-Martin (1998) that states, “DJD is a
noninflammatory chronic, progressive pathological condition
characterized by the loss of joint cartilage and subsequent
lesions resulting from direct interosseous contact within
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