Osteoarthritis is a chronic joint disease that manifests itself in adulthood.A characteristic sign of the disease is the destruction of cartilage and changes in the bone structure.Most often, people over forty are susceptible to various types of arthrosis, but today it is increasingly found in the younger generation.
Causes of the disease
The main cause of arthrosis is age-related changes.Over time, bones and ligaments weaken, fewer vitamins and microelements are supplied, all this negatively affects the entire body.According to doctors, every year the symptoms of osteoarthritis appear earlier and earlier, which is associated with the environment, unbalanced diet and bad habits.Other factors, conditionally divided into two groups (primary and secondary), also contribute to arthrosis.Among them are:
- Excess weight causes stress on the joints, which contributes to osteoarthritis and its rapid development.
- Harsh working conditions that put pressure on joints.Miners, metalworkers, bricklayers and others are at risk.
- Disturbance in the functioning of the endocrine system.
- Repetitive joint injuries.
- Hereditary predisposition.
Common causes of the secondary type include injuries, autoimmune diseases, blood incoagulability, inflammatory processes inside the joints, hormonal disorders, impaired blood supply, hypothermia and others.Osteoarthritis is promoted by constant stress on the hands, playing professional sports, arthritis and congenital disorders in the structure of the joints.
Symptoms of the disease
The development of arthrosis occurs gradually.At first, no signs indicate its presence in the body.Crushing of the joints becomes the first symptom, so it is worth paying attention to the damage.Pain syndrome is absent or manifests itself weakly, without clear localization.Gradually, stiffness in the joints appears, the nature of the pain becomes more intense and intense.Most often, symptoms of the disease appear after a long period of rest or heavy physical work.
Osteoarthritis is indicated by morning stiffness, but after a light workout it disappears.Gradually, the condition is complemented by night pain and the reaction of the joints “to the weather”.A crunching sound is constantly heard, movements are restricted and painful.Patients often complain of uncomfortable sensations in the back and spine;it is difficult for them to find a comfortable position during sleep, as movements are accompanied by spasms and pain.Acute attacks are replaced by periods of relief, but then symptoms return.
Types and degrees of disease
Doctors distinguish four degrees of arthrosis.The first degree danger is the absence or slight sensation 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 minor changes in the damaged joint area.This stage is characterized by a satisfactory condition of the patient;any pain symptoms are attributed to weather conditions or fatigue.
The second degree manifests itself with noticeable symptoms.The pain syndrome becomes stronger, but remains tolerable.At this stage, the destruction of the joint begins and the appearance of osteophytes.Crunching and general malaise are now constant companions of the patient.At this stage, it is important to recognize and start treating arthrosis in time with special medications.
With third-degree arthrosis, the cartilage becomes noticeably thinner, extensive foci of destruction appear and tissue nutrition is disturbed.Multiple osteophytes are visible to the naked eye and severe deformation is observed.
Fourth-degree arthrosis is characterized by severe changes and deformations.There is no common space.
Diagnostic and treatment measures
Treating osteoarthritis is impossible without making a diagnosis.A rheumatologist is involved in this.
The first step involves collecting patient information.The specialist asks about the moment of onset of the first symptoms, the nature and location of the pain and determines the associated factors.The following diagnostic steps before treating osteoarthritis include:
- Radiography 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 several additional tests are also required.
The necessary treatment regimen for arthrosis is selected based on the information received and the results of laboratory tests.Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to defeat arthrosis in the final stages.But regular courses of medication and prevention will help the patient improve their quality of life.
In other cases, the treatment of osteoarthritis consists of a set of measures and depends on the degree of progression of the disease.Possible treatments:
- Analgesics and anti-inflammatories, injections and restorative medications.
- Sanatorium-resort procedures.
- Massages and physiotherapy.
- Electrophoresis, etc.
Along with the basic osteoarthritis treatment regimen, it is recommended to adjust your diet, lose weight and reduce physical activity.
In some cases, folk remedies are used to treat osteoarthritis, 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 osteoarthritis.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.Following simple rules and regular checkups will help reduce the chance of developing various types of osteoarthritis.
It is recommended to avoid excessive exercise, but do not forget about preventive sports.It is better to choose gentle sports as a sport.Walking, swimming and light running 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 into your diet.If you have problems with the endocrine system, do not neglect treatment, but consult an endocrinologist.