Arthrosis of the knee joint or gonarthrosis takes a leading position in the case of arthrosis.This is a degenerative-dystrophic disease of a chronic nature that affects all elements of the joint.Cartilage begins to deteriorate, it occurs in the capsule, synovial membrane, ligamentous apparatus and adjacent bone structures.The disease also has an additional name - gonarthrosis.
Symptoms of arthrosis of the knee joint
They can be more or less obvious and depend entirely on the scene.
At the beginning of the disease, the pain syndrome is almost inconspicuous, but as the disease progresses, it becomes stronger.The first stage is characterized by leg fatigue and joint mobility, usually morning joint mobility.
In the second stage of arthrosis of the knee joint, pain is accompanied by a sound accompanying movement and limited mobility.
The third stage of the disease has a more serious clinical picture - the pain does not go away at rest, severe deformation is noticeable and the joints lose their functions.In addition, 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 who are forced to stand on their feet for a long time during the working day;
- Various metabolic disorders that lead to the deposition of salts in the joint spaces;
- previous surgical operations to remove menisci;
- Overweight and obesity of all degrees, which cause excessive stress on the legs;
- Inflammatory processes in joint tissues - various types of arthritis.
Diagnosis and treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint
The diagnosis of arthrosis of the knee joint takes place in the office of a rheumatologist or orthopedist.The doctor examines the affected joint, palpates it, listens to complaints and asks additional questions.Performs several tests - for example, whether the patient wants to bend his leg or walk a few steps.Then, if it is necessary to clarify the stage of the disease or the nature of pathological changes, he will refer you for additional studies.For example, for computed tomography or radiography.
Treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint often aims to relieve pain and restore cartilage, ligaments and joint function.
To reduce pain, anti-inflammatory drugs, creams and rubs.Joint tissue - To protect chondroprotectors.Sometimes hormonal drugs are prescribed.
Physiotherapy procedures and therapeutic exercises are effective in activating blood circulation in the joint area and strengthening the surrounding muscles.
The changes are irreversible, surgical treatment - prosthesis - prosthesis-tufular.
Prevention of arthrosis of the knee joint
- Eat right: Your diet should have enough trace elements, protein and vitamins;
- Avoid excessive load in knee joint and traumatic lesions;
- Lead an active healthy lifestyle, give up bad habits;
- timely treat all diseases and pathologies that can provoke the appearance of arthrosis;
- Control your body weight and prevent obesity.