Osteoarthritis of the knee joint, or gonarthrosis, occupies a leading position in the incidence of arthrosis.This is a degenerative-dystrophic disease of a chronic nature that affects all elements of the joint.Cartilage begins to deteriorate, changes occur in the capsule, synovial membrane, ligament apparatus and adjacent bone structures.The disease also has another name: gonarthrosis.
Symptoms of arthrosis of the knee joint
They can be more or less pronounced and completely depend on the phase.
The pain syndrome at the beginning of the disease is almost imperceptible, but as the disease progresses it intensifies.The first stage is characterized by leg fatigue and decreased joint mobility, usually in the morning.
In the second stage of arthrosis of the knee joint, pain is accompanied by a creaking sound that accompanies movement and limited mobility.
The third stage of the disease has a more serious clinical picture: the pain does not disappear even at rest, severe deformation is noted and the joints lose their functions.Also, the gait changes.
Causes of arthrosis of the knee joint
- Various injuries: bone fractures, sprains and torn ligaments, bruises and others;
- excessive stress on the legs, most often among professional athletes and people forced to stand for long periods during the working day;
- various metabolic disorders leading to the deposition of salts in the joint cavities;
- previous surgeries to remove the meniscus;
- excess weight and obesity of all degrees, which cause excessive stress on the legs;
- inflammatory processes in joint tissues - arthritis of various types.
Diagnosis and treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint
The diagnosis of arthrosis of the knee joint occurs in the office of a rheumatologist or orthopedist.The doctor examines the affected joint, palpates it, listens to complaints and asks additional questions.He carries out various tests, for example asking the patient to bend his leg or take a few steps.So, if it is necessary to clarify the stage of the disease or the nature of pathological changes, he will direct you for further studies.For example, for computed tomography or x-ray.
Treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint is often complex, aimed at eliminating pain and restoring cartilage, ligaments and joint functions.
Anti-inflammatory drugs, creams and rubs are used to reduce pain.To protect the joint tissue - chondo protectors.Sometimes hormonal drugs are prescribed.
Physiotherapeutic procedures and therapeutic exercises aimed at activating blood circulation in the joint area and strengthening the surrounding muscles are effective.
If the changes are irreversible, surgical - prosthetic treatment is prescribed.
Prevention of arthrosis of the knee joint
- Eat well: your diet should contain a sufficient amount of microelements, proteins and vitamins;
- avoid excessive loads on the knee joint and its traumatic injuries;
- lead a healthy and active lifestyle, abandon bad habits;
- promptly treat all diseases and pathologies that can cause the appearance of arthrosis;
- control body weight and prevent obesity.