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 bone structure.Most often, people over forty years old are susceptible to various types of osteoarthritis, but today it is increasingly found among the younger generations.
Causes of the disease
The main cause of osteoarthritis 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 a poor environment, an unbalanced diet and bad habits.Other factors, conditionally divided into two groups (primary and secondary), also contribute to osteoarthritis.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, metallurgists, bricklayers and others are at risk.
- Alteration 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 facilitated 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 osteoarthritis occurs gradually.At first, there are no signs indicating its presence in the body.Cracking in the joints becomes the first symptom, so it is worth paying attention to the damage.The pain syndrome is absent or weakly manifested without a 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 intense physical work.
Osteoarthritis is manifested by morning stiffness, but after light training it disappears.Little by little, the condition is complemented by night pains and the reaction of the joints “to the weather.”A crunching sound is constantly heard, movements are constricted 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 osteoarthritis.The first degree danger is the absence or slight sensation of pain.Even through 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 treating doctor will detect slight 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 notable symptoms.The pain syndrome becomes stronger, but remains tolerable.At this stage the destruction of the joint and the appearance of osteophytes begins.Creaks and general discomfort are now the patient's constant companions.At this stage, it is important to recognize and start treating osteoarthritis in time with special medications.
With third degree osteoarthritis, the cartilage noticeably thins, large foci of destruction appear, and tissue nutrition is disturbed.Multiple osteophytes are visible to the naked eye and severe deformation is observed.
Fourth degree osteoarthritis is characterized by severe changes and deformations.There is no joint space.
Diagnostic and treatment measures.
Treatment of osteoarthritis is impossible without making a diagnosis.A rheumatologist intervenes in this.
The first stage is to collect information from the patient.The specialist asks about the time of appearance of the first symptoms, the nature and location of the pain and determines the associated factors.The next 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 the examination.
A blood test and a series of additional tests are also required.
The necessary treatment regimen for osteoarthritis is selected based on the information received and the results of laboratory tests.Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to defeat osteoarthritis in the final stages.But regular medication and prevention treatments 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 development 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 treatment regimen for osteoarthritis, it is recommended to adjust the diet, lose weight and reduce physical activity.
In some cases, home remedies are used to treat osteoarthritis, but only as prescribed by a specialist.At home, during treatment, you can use ointments, gels and herbs prescribed by your doctor.In severe cases, surgical methods are used to treat osteoarthritis.Depending on the stage of the disease, 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 will help reduce the possibility 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.The ideal is to walk, swim and do light jogging.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, visit an endocrinologist.