Therapeutic measures in the treatment of knee arthrosis

Arthrosis is a deformation of the knee joint accompanied by an inflammatory process with the characteristic signs of redness and swelling of the lesion. Treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint is a long and complex procedure.

This disease is most often diagnosed in the elderly and professional athletes. The effectiveness of rapid recovery depends on a properly designed rehabilitation plan and compliance with all the prescriptions of the attending physician. Therefore, it is necessary to consider in more detail the degree of arthrosis and all methods of treatment of the pathology.

Degrees of arthrosis of the knee joint

The course of arthrosis of the knee joint is divided into four special stages that characterize the severity of the disease.

• First degree.The onset of the disease is marked by constant pain in the legs of a pulling nature. At the same time, the mobility of the joints is limited, and a corresponding crisis occurs with a sharp movement. Increased physical activity increases the deformation of the joint. If you do not load the leg, the pain practically does not manifest itself. X-ray shows narrowing of the joint space, no destruction of the joint.
• Second degree.At this stage of the development of the disease, arthrosis is characterized by the occurrence of severe pain in the joint that limits movement, and the person can no longer travel long distances on his own. Removal of the joint begins, a creaking of the knee is noted, and a gait with a limp appears. The space in the joint narrows to a minimum, the formation of so-called osteophyte spikes occurs, and inflammation can begin.
• Third degree.The most severe complication of arthrosis. A person can no longer move independently, and the pain in the knee does not stop even at rest. There are obvious signs of arthrosis: complete deformation of the knee, lack of joint space on X-ray, limitation of joint mobility.
• fourth degreecharacterized by complete destruction of the knee joint. In this case, surgical operation in the form of a joint prosthesis is recommended. Only a qualified specialist can determine the exact degree of arthrosis of the knee joint after a series of special studies. If you experience similar symptoms, you should immediately go to the hospital to see a rheumatologist.

Basic treatment methods

Treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee involves the use of various methods, from medical therapy to alternative medicine. The process of rehabilitation and restoration of the knee can take a long time and requires the use of various methods, as well as compliance with all the manipulations prescribed by the doctor.

The course of treatment is determined by the attending physician, who determines the recovery plan depending on the degree of arthrosis and the age of the person. At the same time, the maximum effort is made to avoid surgical intervention and ensure the integrity of the knee.

Elimination of excessive tension in the joint

One of the reasons for the increased load on the knee joints is excess weight, which puts pressure on the legs and can lead to the formation of arthrosis, which gradually deforms. If this diagnosis occurs with excessive body weight, corrective measures should be taken to reduce the joint load. To do this, you need to follow a diet, do sports (use only permitted exercises, regularly perform exercise therapy).

They also use a series of special bandages and devices to straighten the knee joint and properly distribute the load on it. Such devices are orthopedic and specially designed to correct and restore the knee joint. The period of use of devices and bandages is determined or extended by the attending orthopedic doctor, who makes a decision after analyzing the complete clinical picture and studying X-ray images.

Use of drug therapy

In the treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint with drugs, three groups of drugs are used: anti-inflammatory, non-steroid analgesics, hormonal drugs, chondroprotective drugs. Positive results and progress in treatment are provided by the correct combination of components in the therapeutic complex.

1. Use of non-steroidal analgesics.These drugs are prescribed as pain relievers that stop the inflammatory process. Medicines are taken orally or used for external use (ointments, gels, patches). The exposure effect occurs on average 4-5 days after the start of the drug. The general course of treatment does not exceed 2 weeks, because further use leads to the development of side effects in the form of indigestion, nausea and ulcerative manifestations.
2. Hormonal drugs.When the course of the disease is complicated, doctors prescribe the use of hormonal drugs that quickly relieve pain and accelerate the recovery process. The duration of treatment with these drugs is short-term, because there are many contraindications for their continuous use.
3. Preparation of chondroprotective effect.They contain natural sources of structural elements of connective tissue in cartilage and perform the function of restoring the knee joint. The use of drugs also helps to relieve painful symptoms. Medicines are presented in the form of tablets, ointments, gels. The main method of using kondoprotectors is the introduction of the drug into the joint fluid.

The total duration of treatment lasts about 4 months. Experience shows that the results give positive changes that are clearly visible on radiographic images. Hyaluronic acid is called a fluid protector in the joint. It has practically the same composition, which actively nourishes and restores the original structure of the knee joint.

Surgery

Surgery in the knee joint is performed only in extreme cases, when other methods of treatment have not given a positive result. Depending on the severity of the disease, the following surgical intervention methods are distinguished:

1. Performing arthroscopy. The most delicate way of surgical intervention. This manipulation is performed in the early stages of the pathology and the work of the knee joint is partially restored. The procedure is performed through a special endoscope, first punctures are made, and then the damaged areas of the joint are removed with the apparatus. The operation is effective for young people and quickly relieves pain;
2. For more severe joint deformity, the use of osteotomy is indicated. The essence of the procedure is in a specific fracture of the bone and its subsequent correct fusion. In this case, the joint is restored, the pain disappears. Also, additionally use the necessary parts of artificial tissues;
3. Implementation of endoprosthetics. It is one of the most difficult types of operations. In this case, a complete replacement of the knee joint with a special implant takes place, which performs all functions to restore the person's bending and further movement. Most patients note very positive results, where the level of physical activity has increased significantly.

Physiotherapy treatment

In the initial stage of the development of arthrosis, physiotherapy is an effective treatment method. It actively reduces
relieves pain, muscle tension and partially restores the original structure of the joint. Physiological procedures have the following types:

• Analgesic magnetotherapy. This procedure performs general functions to restore and relieve pain in the body. The use of this method is effective in the first and second stages of the disease. The total duration of the treatment is 9-15 procedures lasting 30 minutes.
• The use of laser therapy as an anti-inflammatory activity. When using this technique, the following types are used: treatment with infrared radiation, low-frequency UHF, centimeter wave therapy. Such methods have a positive effect on joint recovery. Saturate connective tissue cells with food, improve blood circulation. It should be noted that the use of UHF is combined with intra-articular administration of drugs, and centimeter wave therapy is effective in the early stages of arthrosis. The average duration of the procedures is 10-20 times, and the duration is between 7 and 15 minutes.
• Physiological procedures of intensive effect. Various procedures are used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee joint. A few key techniques should be reviewed in detail.
• ultrasonic waves. The most popular treatment for this disease. It significantly improves blood circulation processes, joint nutrition, restores cartilage tissue. It is recommended to use within 14 days. Using electrophoresis. The use of electric currents in combination with the administration of drugs. The advantage of this method is the significant recovery of the knee joint, along with the absence of a strong drug load on the body. The number of procedures of one course is 10-12 times. The combination of several currents acting together is the phenomenon of intervention therapy. A distinctive feature of the method is the stimulation of atrophic muscles and the restoration of blood circulation processes in the lymphatic system. With the development of the acute stage, it is prescribed twice a day for two weeks. The use of alternating current of an impulsive nature also has an effective effect on the affected joint. This procedure is called darsonvalization and actively reduces pain while performing regenerative functions in the knee. The full course of rehabilitation is 10-15 procedures lasting about half an hour for 15 days. Reception of special therapeutic baths. They are part of procedures for therapeutic measures of arthrosis. Combinations of water with sage, hydrogen sulphide, radon, bischofite, healing mud are very effective. These procedures have a great analgesic effect and can be applied in local or general use. The duration of the session is 10-30 minutes. The average course of treatment is 10-20 days.

Traditional medicine in the treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint

The process of complex treatment of pathology can stop the further development of the disease, but it is impossible to completely get rid of the disease! Therefore, it is very important to use all methods aimed at maintaining a stable state and prolonging the established effect. One of the most effective ways is traditional medicine recipes in the form of compresses, bandages, ointments, tinctures, which have a beneficial effect on the lesion. The most effective means:

• Preparation of dandelion flowers.It is used fresh, brewed in boiling water and alcohol-based tincture. It is recommended to eat 7-8 pieces of ginger daily. Tincture is taken 100 ml three times a day before meals. An alcohol-based solution is applied to the affected joint daily for a month;
• Horseradish compress.This vegetable effectively reduces pain symptoms and partially restores the normal functionality of the joint. The process of making a bandage is simple: rubbed horseradish is applied to gauze and applied to the painful area overnight. The procedure should be repeated every day for about 30 days;
• The use of aloe.The plant has natural anti-inflammatory, analgesic properties and is actively used in the treatment of arthrosis. You can make flower-based compresses, and you can also use crushed leaves or apply to the affected area. The treatment period with this tool should last at least one month;
• Tincture based on cinquefoil.The preparation recipe is to use the herb together with alcohol and get a suitable solution for the prevention and treatment of arthrosis. The drug is taken 3-4 drops per day or used as a compress. Treatment lasts one month;
• A mixture of mustard, sand and salt.All components of the composition should be thoroughly mixed, then placed in a baking dish and heated well. The warm mixture should be applied to the affected area and the compress should not be removed until it cools down. This method is effective in relieving pain and improving blood circulation in the joint. The procedure is not recommended in the acute course of the disease.

Calendula, burdock, juniper are also used in the treatment of the disease, because they have a beneficial effect on the recovery of the knee joint.

Non-traditional means for the treatment of arthrosis

Non-traditional medicine is used in the treatment of arthrosis. The most popular methods in this industry:

1. Treatment with leeches is called hirudotherapy. This method is very efficient. Since insects are attached to joint biological action points. At the same time, they secrete special enzymes that have healing properties, improve metabolic processes, and increase blood circulation in the joint. The duration and duration of treatment is determined by a special doctor;
2. The use of acupuncture by inserting needles into the active points of the joint. It also provides a number of effective procedures in the treatment of arthrosis. They use direct acupuncture, point massage and special moxibustion sticks. Manipulation is carried out only by a qualified specialist who appoints the necessary number of sessions;
3. Treatment with hydrogen peroxide. The chemical compound is involved in all life processes of the body, so it is used for arthrosis. The drug is diluted with water in a ratio of 3% H2O2 to 1 glass and drunk 2 hours after a meal. You can also use peroxide-based compresses;
4. Gelatin intake. This component is a source of natural collagen, which is necessary for the strength of bones and joints. The use of gelatin also has a therapeutic effect in the course of arthrosis. The daily dose is 10 grams. And the duration of treatment with this method should be at least 90 days. It is also good to use food and dishes rich in gelatin (chicken, pork, cartilage, aspic);
5. Use of stem cells. Innovative treatment of arthrosis. Its uniqueness lies in its stem cells, which have the ability to transform into new cell systems and regenerate. They are obtained from human bone marrow and grown in laboratory conditions for 2 months. The cells are then injected into the affected joint. This therapy partially replaces cartilage tissue and improves knee mobility.

A combination of massage and manual therapy

Massage is a prerequisite for the treatment of this pathology. It is performed by a qualified massage therapist or a trained patient. Before starting the procedure, it is recommended to warm up the muscles with exercise therapy exercises and then manipulate them. A good effect is added by the use of water procedures in combination with massage. At first, the first sessions should not exceed 10 minutes, then gradually increase to 20 minutes.

After the massage, the patient should feel a slight relief and should not feel pain. If they are, you should consult a doctor to continue the procedure. Manipulation helps well in the early stages of arthrosis.

Manual therapy is used in individual cases and is performed by a special doctor. For its implementation, the patient must have certain indicators. The essence of the method is to gently reduce and stretch the joint. In this case, the muscles are activated and the process of restoring joint mobility begins. Manipulation should be carried out 3-4 times a year.

Treatment and prevention of arthrosis with exercise therapy

Performing special exercises called physiotherapy is an effective method in the treatment of arthrosis. To get the desired effect, you must follow the rules of complex gymnastics exercises:

1. Exercises are performed only on the recommendation of the attending physician;
2. The exercise regime should be several times a day;
3. Exclusion of strong physical strength;
4. During the training, you need to take special breaks to rest together;
5. A combination of massage, therapeutic drugs and exercise therapy;
6. Exercises are carried out with a quiet course of the disease;
7. The ratio of simple muscle tension and motor activity should be observed. It is this technique that will strengthen the joint;

It should be remembered that a set of special exercise therapy exercises is prescribed purely individually and is selected by a specialist in this field.

Methodology of Doctor of Medicine

This method of treatment was developed by a famous scientist, doctor of medical sciences. The essence of the therapy is based on the recovery of the patient with the help of physiological procedures without the use of drugs.

After a comprehensive examination, an individual treatment regimen is prescribed. In this case, there is no additional load in the joint, but special simulators are used. As analgesics, the doctor suggests the use of ice and other cooling agents.

In parallel with this therapy, swimming, bath procedures, special massages, and then a cooled steam room are also recommended.

In medical practice, many positive cases have been shown in the treatment of arthrosis, in which joint mobility is restored and the patient can lead a normal life.

Rheumatologist's methodology

The famous doctor has developed his own method for the treatment of arthrosis. It is based on a combination of medical and mechanical treatment of the affected joint.

This method is carried out according to the following scheme:

• use of non-steroid drugs;
• use of chondroprotective drugs;
• external use of anesthetic creams, ointments;
• Application of compresses;
• Joint injection;
• Carrying out manual therapy;
• Physiological procedures;
• Therapeutic physical education;
• Wearing special bandages, bandages, canes;
• Diet.

The effectiveness of the technique is confirmed by statistical data. More than 95% of patients with the first degree of arthrosis were treated with this method. The second stage of the disease was rehabilitated in 80% of patients.

Treatment of arthrosis using modern therapy methods

Modern methods of arthrosis therapy are actively combined with drugs and other treatment methods. The following types are used:

1. The phenomenon of kinesitherapy, in which a specially designed set of exercises aimed at obtaining the most positive effect is prescribed;
2. The introduction of ozone into the joint is called ozone therapy. It is a type of physiological procedure that appeared relatively recently and gained popularity due to its high efficiency;
3. The use of homeopathic remedies of various nature.
4. Application and use of biologically active substances.

These medications should only be taken as directed by your doctor.

These treatment methods are used quite often in the treatment of arthrosis and in most cases give positive results. The combination of methods is selected by a qualified rheumatologist.

Treatment of arthrosis in sanatorium-resort conditions

The indication for the treatment of arthrosis in a special sanatorium complex is the development of degenerative-dystrophic arthrosis.

In the sanatorium, the patient is prescribed the following procedures:

1. mud wraps and baths;
2. Physiological therapy;
3. exercise therapy;
4. Massage and manual therapy;
5. Modern treatment methods of arthrosis.

Sanatorium-spa type treatment is prohibited with such contraindications:

• severe deformation of the joint;
• Inflammatory process in the knee;
• Deterioration of the general condition;
• The last stage of the disease in the acute phase.

The correct performance of all prescribed procedures in the sanatorium and further improvement of the general condition, restoration of the joint, restoration of its mobility within 6 months are the confirmation of favorable treatment in these conditions. At the same time, general analyzes show a positive trend.

The average cost of arthrosis treatment and the opinion on the effectiveness of the therapy

The cost of complex treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint depends on the degree of the disease, the general condition of the joint, the stage of its deformation, the age of the patient and the body's ability to heal.

It should be noted that the use of drugs with a chondroprotective effect is an expensive procedure, because the duration of their application is quite long. In the treatment of pathology, a number of measures are prescribed, which have a fairly large price policy.

The final stages of arthrosis are characterized by complete deformation of the joint, which requires a prosthesis. The prices of this operation are quite high. Therefore, the average cost of treatment is quite high, and it is best not to start the disease, but to treat it in the initial stages of its occurrence!

Reviews of patients with arthrosis and complex treatment are published. Most people say that arthrosis is best treated in the early stages of the disease, with full compliance with all prescribed manipulations. At the same time, continuous preventive measures should be taken to prevent the development of the disease.

The third and fourth degrees of the disease are practically not treated, and doctors recommend surgical intervention. Depending on the degree of knee deformity, various surgical operations are performed, from reconstruction to complete replacement of the joint. Postoperative periods and subsequent remission periods also recommend prophylaxis and new surgical interventions.

Finally, it is worth emphasizing the important point of the article and saying that arthrosis of the knee joint is a very serious disease that requires a lot of effort and time for partial recovery. Therefore, if you are prone to this disease, you must strictly follow all preventive methods to prevent the development of this pathology!