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 forty years of age 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 arthrosis appear earlier and earlier, which is associated with poor 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.
- Harsh working conditions that place stress on joints.Miners, metallurgists, masons 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.Crunching in the joints becomes the first symptom, due to which it is worth paying attention to the damage.Pain syndrome is absent or manifests itself in a weak form without clear localization.Gradually, stiffness in the joints appears, the nature of the pain becomes brighter and more intense.Most often, symptoms of the disease appear after a long period of rest or heavy physical work.
Arthrosis is indicated by morning stiffness, but after a light workout it goes away.Gradually, the picture is complemented by night pain and the reaction of joints “to the weather.”A crunching sound is constantly heard, movements are constrained 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, since 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 four degrees of arthrosis.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 attending physician will detect 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 manifests itself with noticeable symptoms.The pain syndrome becomes stronger, but remains tolerable.At this stage, the destruction of the joint and the appearance of osteophytes begins.Crunching and general malaise are now the patient’s constant companions.At this stage, it is important to recognize and begin to treat arthrosis in time with special medications.
With arthrosis of the third degree, the cartilage noticeably thins, extensive foci of destruction appear, and tissue nutrition is disrupted.Multiple osteophytes are visible to the naked eye, and severe deformation is noted.
Arthrosis of the fourth degree is characterized by severe changes and deformation.There is no joint space.
Diagnostic measures and treatment
Treatment of arthrosis is impossible without making a diagnosis.A rheumatologist is involved in this.
The first stage involves collecting information from the patient.The specialist asks about the time of onset of the first symptoms, the nature and location of pain, and determines associated factors.The following diagnostic steps before treating arthrosis include:
- X-ray is the main diagnostic method.
- Puncture of joints to determine the degree of change.
- Biopsy - determines the condition of the joints at the time of 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 stages.But regular courses of medication and prevention will help the patient improve their quality of life.
In other cases, treatment of arthrosis consists of a set of measures and depends on the degree of development of the disease.Possible treatments:
- Painkillers and anti-inflammatory, restorative injections and medications.
- Sanatorium-resort procedures.
- Massages and physical therapy.
- Electrophoresis, etc.
Along with the basic 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.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 chance of developing various types of arthrosis.
It is recommended to avoid excessive exercise, but do not forget about preventative sports.It is better to choose gentle 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 introduce foods rich in vitamins and minerals into your diet.If you have problems with the endocrine system, do not neglect treatment, but visit an endocrinologist.