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 today it is more and more common in the younger generation.
Causes of the disease
The main cause of arthrosis is age-related changes.Over time, bones and ligaments weaken, less vitamins and trace elements are supplied, all of which have a negative effect on the whole body.According to doctors, every year the symptoms of arthrosis appear earlier and earlier, which is associated with a bad environment, unbalanced nutrition and bad habits.Other factors, conventionally divided into two groups (primary and secondary), also contribute to arthrosis.Among them:
- Excess weight causes stress on the joints, which contributes to arthrosis and its rapid development.
- Hard working conditions that put stress on the joints.Miners, metallurgists, masons and others are at risk.
- Disturbance in the work of the endocrine system.
- Repetitive joint injuries.
- Hereditary predisposition.
The common causes of the secondary type are injuries, autoimmune diseases, lack of blood clotting, internal inflammatory processes of the joints, hormonal disorders, impaired blood supply, hypothermia, etc.Osteoarthritis develops with constant stress on the hands, 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 symptoms indicate its presence in the body.Creaking in the joints becomes the first symptom, so it is worth paying attention to the damage.There is no pain syndrome or it manifests itself in a weak form without a clear localization.Gradually, stiffness appears in the joints, the nature of the pain becomes brighter and more intense.Often, the symptoms of the disease appear after a long period of rest or heavy physical work.
Arthrosis is expressed by morning stiffness, but disappears after a light exercise.Gradually, the picture is completed with night pain and the reaction of the joints to "air".A constant creaking sound is heard, 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 the disease
Doctors distinguish four degrees of arthrosis.The first degree of danger is the absence or mildness of pain.Even with a medical examination, it is not always possible to diagnose the disease.Palpation of the area gives good results;In this case, an experienced attending physician will detect small changes in the affected joint area.This stage is characterized by the satisfactory condition of the patient;any pain symptoms are associated with weather conditions or fatigue.
The second degree manifests itself with noticeable symptoms.The pain syndrome intensifies, but remains tolerable.At this stage, the destruction of the joint and the appearance of osteophytes begin.Wheezing and general malaise are now the patient's constant companions.At this stage, it is important to recognize arthrosis in time and start treating it with special drugs.
With third-degree arthrosis, the cartilage becomes noticeably thinner, extensive foci of destruction appear, and tissue nutrition is disturbed.Many osteophytes are visible to the naked eye and severe deformation is noted.
Fourth degree arthrosis is characterized by serious changes and deformation.No joint space.
Diagnostic measures and treatment
Treatment of arthrosis is impossible without diagnosis.A rheumatologist is involved in this work.
The first stage consists of collecting information from the patient.The specialist asks about the time of the onset of the first symptoms, the nature and location of the pain and determines the associated factors.Before treatment of arthrosis, the following diagnostic steps are included:
- X-ray is the main diagnostic method.
- Puncture of the joints to determine the degree of change.
- Biopsy - determines the condition of the joints during examination.
A blood test and a number of additional examinations 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 stage.However, regular medication and preventive courses will help improve the patient's quality of life.
In other cases, the treatment of arthrosis consists of a number of measures and depends on the degree of development of the disease.Possible treatment methods:
- Pain relievers and anti-inflammatories, restorative injections and medications.
- Sanatorium-resort procedures.
- Massage and physiotherapy.
- Electrophoresis, etc.
Along with the main treatment regimen for arthrosis, it is recommended to adjust your 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.It helps to restore mobility and relieve pain.
Preventive measures
It is easier to prevent any disease than to cure it.Following simple rules and regular examination will help reduce the chances of developing different types of arthrosis.
It is recommended to avoid excessive exercise, but do not forget about preventive exercise.It is better to choose soft sports such as sports.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 include foods rich in vitamins and minerals in your diet.If you have problems with the endocrine system, do not neglect the treatment, consult an endocrinologist.