Arthrosis is a chronic joint disease that appears in adulthood.A characteristic sign of the disease is the destruction of cartilage and changes in bone structure.Most often, people over forty years old 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, less vitamins and microelements are supplied, all this negatively affects the whole body.According to doctors, every year the symptoms of arthrosis appear earlier and earlier, which is associated with bad 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 leads to stress on the joints, which contributes to arthrosis and its rapid development.
- Difficult working conditions that cause stress on the joints.At risk are miners, metallurgists, masons and others.
- Disorders 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 within the joints, hormonal disorders, impaired blood supply, hypothermia and others.Osteoarthritis is triggered by constant stress on the hands, playing professional sports, arthritis and congenital disorders of the joint structure.
Symptoms of the disease
The development of arthrosis occurs gradually.At first, no signs indicate its presence in the body.Crackling in the joint becomes the first symptom, due to which it is worth paying attention to the damage.The pain syndrome is absent or manifests in a weak form without clear localization.Gradually, stiffness appears in the joints, the nature of the pain becomes brighter and more intense.Most often, the symptoms of the disease appear after a long period of rest or heavy physical work.
Arthrosis is indicated by stiffness in the morning, but after light exercise it goes away.Gradually, the picture is complemented by night pain and the reaction of the joints "against the weather".A creaking noise is constantly heard, movements are limited and painful.Patients often complain of unpleasant sensations in the back and back;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 the symptoms return.
Types and degrees of the disease
Doctors distinguish four degrees of arthrosis.The risk of the first degree 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 slight changes in the area of the damaged joint.This stage is characterized by a satisfactory condition of the patient;any symptoms of pain are attributed to weather conditions or fatigue.
The second degree manifests itself with visible symptoms.The pain syndrome becomes stronger, but remains tolerable.At this stage, joint destruction and the appearance of osteophytes begin.Screaming and general ill-treatment are now the patient's constant companions.At this stage, it is important to recognize and start treating arthrosis in time with special medications.
With arthrosis of the third degree, the cartilage is visibly thinned, extensive foci of destruction appear and tissue nutrition is interrupted.Numerous osteophytes are visible to the naked eye and severe deformities are 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 making a diagnosis.A rheumatologist is involved in this.
The first stage involves gathering information from the patient.The specialist asks about the time of the appearance 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-rays are the main diagnostic method.
- Puncture of the joints 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 stages.But regular courses of treatment and prevention will help the patient to improve the 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 treatments:
- Painkillers and injections and anti-inflammatory, restorative medications.
- Sanatorium-resort procedures.
- Massage and physiotherapy.
- Electrophoresis etc.
Along with the basic arthrosis treatment regimen, 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 the 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.Following simple rules and regular examination will help reduce the possibility of developing different types of arthrosis.
It is recommended to avoid excessive exercise, but do not forget about preventive sports.It is better to choose soft sports as a 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 include foods rich in vitamins and minerals in your diet.If you have problems with the endocrine system, do not neglect treatment, but visit an endocrinologist.