Arthrosis is a chronic joint disease that manifests itself in adulthood.A characteristic sign of the disease is the destruction of cartilage and changes in bone structure.Most often, people over the age of forty are susceptible to various types of arthrosis, but nowadays it is more and more common among the younger generation.
Causes of disease
The main cause of arthrosis is age-related changes.Over time, bones and ligaments weaken, less vitamins and microelements are obtained, and all this negatively affects the entire organism.According to doctors, every year the symptoms of arthrosis appear earlier, which is related to bad living environment, unbalanced diet and bad habits.Other factors contribute to the development of arthrosis, conditionally divided into two groups (primary and secondary).Among them are:
- Excess weight leads to stress on the joints, which contributes to the onset of arthrosis and its rapid development.
- Difficult working conditions that stress the joints.Miners, metallurgists, masons and others are at risk.
- Disturbance in the work of the endocrine system.
- Repetitive joint injuries.
- Hereditary predisposition.
The usual causes of the secondary type are injuries, autoimmune diseases, blood coagulation, inflammatory processes inside the joints, hormonal disorders, blood supply disorders, hypothermia, etc.Osteoarthritis is caused by constant stress on the hands, playing professional sports, arthritis, congenital disorders in the joint structure.
Symptoms of the disease
The development of arthrosis takes place gradually.At first, no signs indicate its presence in the body.Cracking in the joints becomes the first symptom, which is why it is worth paying attention to the damage.The pain syndrome is absent or manifests in a weak form without a clear localization.Stiffness in the joints gradually appears, the nature of the pain becomes brighter and more intense.Most often, the symptoms of the disease appear after a long rest or hard physical work.
Stiffness in the morning indicates arthrosis, but it disappears after light training.Gradually, the picture is completed by night pains and the reaction of the joints "to the weather".There is constant creaking, movements are restricted and painful.Patients often complain of unpleasant sensations in the back and spine;it is difficult for them to find a comfortable position during sleep, because movements are accompanied by spasms and pain.Acute attacks are replaced by periods of relief, but then the symptoms return.
Types and degrees of disease
Doctors distinguish between four degrees of arthrosis.The danger of the first degree is the absence or mild feeling of pain.Even with a medical examination, it is not always possible to diagnose the disease.Palpation of the area gives a good result;in this case, an experienced doctor will detect small changes in the area of the damaged joint.This phase is characterized by the satisfactory condition of the patient;all pain symptoms are attributed to weather conditions or fatigue.
The second degree is manifested by noticeable symptoms.The pain syndrome becomes stronger, but remains tolerable.At this stage, the destruction of the joint and the appearance of osteophytes begin.Cramping and general malaise are now the patient's constant companions.At this stage, it is important to recognize and start treating arthrosis with special drugs in time.
In third-degree arthrosis, the cartilage is noticeably thinner, extensive foci of destruction appear, and tissue nutrition is disturbed.Multiple osteophytes are visible to the naked eye, and severe deformation was also observed.
Fourth degree arthrosis is characterized by severe changes and deformations.There is no shared space.
Diagnostic measures and treatment
Treatment of arthrosis is impossible without establishing a diagnosis.A rheumatologist is involved.
The first stage involves gathering information from the patient.The specialist asks about the time of the first symptoms, the nature and location of the pain, and determines the associated factors.The following diagnostic steps before treating osteoarthritis include:
- X-ray is the main diagnostic method.
- Joint puncture to determine the degree of change.
- Biopsy - determines the condition of the joints at the time of examination.
A blood test and a series of additional examinations are also required.
The necessary treatment regimen for arthrosis is selected based on the information obtained and the results of laboratory tests.Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to defeat arthrosis in the final stage.But regular courses of medication and prevention will help the patient improve his quality of life.
In other cases, the treatment of arthrosis consists of a series of measures and depends on the degree of development of the disease.Possible treatments:
- Pain relievers and anti-inflammatories, restorative injections and medications.
- Sanatorium-resort procedures.
- Massages and physical therapy.
- Electrophoresis, etc.
In addition to the basic arthrosis treatment regimen, it is recommended to adjust the diet, lose weight and reduce physical activity.
In some cases, folk remedies are used to treat arthrosis, but only as prescribed by a specialist.At home, during treatment, you can use ointments, gels, herbs prescribed by your doctor.In severe cases, surgical methods are used to treat arthrosis.Depending on the stage of the disease, the damaged areas are replaced with analogues.This helps restore mobility and relieve pain.
Preventive measures
Any disease is easier to prevent than to treat.Adherence to simple rules and regular examinations will help reduce the chance of developing various types of arthrosis.
It is recommended to avoid excessive exercise, but do not forget about preventive sports.As a sport, it is better to choose a gentle sport.Walking, swimming and light jogging are ideal.It is worth giving up bad habits and leading a healthy lifestyle.If you are overweight, adjust your diet and introduce foods rich in vitamins and minerals.If you have problems with the endocrine system, do not neglect treatment, but visit an endocrinologist.