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 40 years old are susceptible to various types of arthrosis, but today it is increasingly occurring in the younger generation.
Causes of the disease
The main cause of osteoarthritis is age-related changes.Over time, bones and ligaments become weaker, fewer vitamins and microelements are supplied, which has a negative effect on the entire body.According to doctors, symptoms of arthrosis appear earlier and earlier every year, which is associated with a poor environment, unbalanced diet and bad habits.Other factors, conditionally divided into two groups (primary and secondary), also contribute to osteoarthritis.Among them are:
- Excess weight puts strain on the joints, which contributes to osteoarthritis and its rapid development.
- Hard working conditions that put strain on the joints.Miners, metallurgists, bricklayers and others are at risk.
- Endocrine system dysfunction.
- Repeated joint injuries.
- Hereditary predisposition.
Common causes of the secondary type are injuries, autoimmune diseases, blood clotting disorders, inflammatory processes in the joints, hormonal disorders, impaired blood supply, hypothermia and others.Osteoarthritis is caused by constant strain on the hands, playing professional sports, arthritis and congenital disorders in the structure of the joints.
Symptoms of the disease
The development of osteoarthritis occurs gradually.Initially, there is no evidence that it is present in the body.Crunching in the joints is the first symptom, which is why it is worth paying attention to the damage.The pain syndrome is absent or manifests itself in a weak form without clear localization.Gradually, stiffness of the joints appears, the nature of the pain becomes brighter and more intense.Symptoms of the disease most often appear after prolonged rest or heavy physical work.
Osteoarthritis is noticeable through morning stiffness, but disappears after light exercise.Gradually, the picture is supplemented by night pain and the reaction of the joints “to the weather”.A grinding noise can be heard constantly, movements are restricted and painful.Patients often complain of unpleasant sensations in the back and spine;They find it difficult to find a comfortable position while sleeping because movements are accompanied by cramps and pain.Acute attacks are replaced by periods of relief, but then the symptoms return.
Types and degrees of severity of the disease
Doctors distinguish four degrees of osteoarthritis.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.Scanning the area gives a good result;In this case, an experienced treating doctor will notice slight changes in the area of the damaged joint.This stage is characterized by a satisfactory condition of the patient;Any 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.Grinding and general malaise are now the patient's constant companions.At this stage, it is important to recognize osteoarthritis in a timely manner and treat it with special medications.
In third-degree osteoarthritis, the cartilage becomes noticeably thinner, extensive foci of destruction appear, and tissue nutrition is disrupted.Multiple osteophytes are visible to the naked eye and severe deformation is noted.
Fourth degree osteoarthritis is characterized by severe changes and deformations.There is no joint space.
Diagnostic measures and treatment
Treatment of osteoarthritis is not possible without a diagnosis.A rheumatologist is involved.
In the first phase, information is collected from the patient.The specialist inquires about the time when the first symptoms appeared, the type and location of the pain and determines the factors associated with it.The following diagnostic steps before treating osteoarthritis include:
- X-ray is the most important diagnostic method.
- Puncture of joints to determine the extent of the change.
- Biopsy – determines the condition of the joints at the time of the examination.
In addition, a blood test and a number of other examinations are required.
The necessary treatment regimen for arthrosis is selected based on the information received and the results of laboratory tests.Unfortunately, in the final stages of osteoarthritis it is almost impossible to beat.However, regular drug treatments and prevention help improve the patient's quality of life.
In other cases, treatment of arthrosis consists of a number of measures and depends on the degree of development of the disease.Possible treatments:
- Painkillers and anti-inflammatory, strengthening injections and medications.
- Sanatorium-resort procedures.
- Massages and physiotherapy.
- electrophoresis etc.
In addition to the basic treatment of osteoarthritis, 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 doctor.At home, you can use ointments, gels and herbs prescribed by your doctor during treatment.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 examinations can help reduce the risk of developing various types of osteoarthritis.
It is recommended to avoid excessive physical activity, but also not to forget about preventative sports.It is better to choose gentle sports as a sport.Walks, 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.If you have problems with the endocrine system, do not neglect treatment, but consult an endocrinologist.