Therapeutic measures in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee

Arthrosis is a pathology of the knee joint, which is accompanied by an inflammatory process characterized by redness and swelling of the lesion. Treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee joint is a long and complex process.

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

The degree of arthrosis of the knee joint

The course of arthrosis of the knee joint is divided into four specific stages, which reflect the severity of the disease.

• First class.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 with rapid movements, a uniform crunch occurs. The deformity of the joint is aggravated by increased physical activity. If you do not load the leg, the pain practically does not appear. X-ray shows a narrowing of the joint space, the destruction of the joint is not observed.
• second degree.Arthrosis at this stage of development of the disease is characterized by the occurrence of severe pain in the joint, which limits movement, and the person can no longer travel long distances on his own. Erosion of the joint begins, a condition in the knee. The crunch is noted and a gait appears with lameness. The gap in the joint is minimized, so-called osteophyte spikes are formed, and swelling may begin.
• Third degree.The most serious complication of arthrosis. The person can no longer walk independently, and the pain in the knee does not stop even at rest. The obvious signs of arthrosis are: complete deformity of the knee, absence of joint space on X-ray, joint mobilitylimit of.
• fourth degreeCharacterized by the complete destruction of the knee joint. In this case, a surgical operation in the form of a joint prosthesis is recommended. Only a qualified specialist after a series of studies conducted specifically for arthrosis of the knee jointIf 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 a variety of techniques, from medical therapy to alternative medicine. The process of knee rehabilitation and recovery can take a long time and requires the use of a variety of methods as well. Requires 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, the age of the individual. At the same time, maximum efforts are made to avoid surgical intervention and keep the knee intact.

relieve excess stress on the joint

One of the reasons for the increased load on the knee joint is the presence of excess weight, which puts pressure on the legs and can gradually lead to the formation of deforming arthrosis. If this diagnosis is accompanied by excessive body weight, thenCorrective measures should be taken to reduce the load on the joint. To do this, you must follow a diet, play sports (use only permitted exercises, regularly practice exercise therapy).

They also use a number of special dressings and installations to fix the knee joint and properly distribute the load on it. Such devices are orthopedic and specifically for healing and restoring the knee joint. are designed. The time of use of devices and bandages is appointed or extended by the attending orthopedic doctor, who decides after analyzing the full clinical picture and studying the X-ray images.

drug therapy use

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

1. Use of non-steroidal analgesics.These drugs are prescribed as pain relievers that stop the inflammatory process. The drugs are taken orally or are used for external use (ointments, gels, patches). The effect of exposure Onset of drugK occurs on average after 4-5 days. The usual course of treatment is no more than 2 weeks, since further use leads to the development of side effects in the form of dyspepsia, nausea and ulcerative manifestations.
2. Hormonal drugs.When the course of the disease is complicated, doctors recommend using hormonal-type drugs that quickly eliminate pain and speed up the recovery process. The duration of treatment with these drugs is short-lived, because of theirThere are a large number of contraindications for continuous use.
3. Preparations for chondroprotective action.They are natural sources of structural elements of connective tissue in cartilage and have the function of restoring the knee joint. The use of drugs also helps to relieve painful symptoms. Drugs are presented in the form of tablets, ointment, gel. The main method of using chondroprotectors is the introduction of the drug into the joint fluid.

The total duration of treatment lasts about 4 months. As practice shows, the results give positive changes, which are clearly visible on radiographic images. Hyaluronic acid is called the protector of fluid in the joint. ItsHas a practically identical composition, which actively nourishes and restores the primary structure of the knee joint.

Surgery

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

1. Carrying out arthroscopy. The most delicate method of surgical intervention. This manipulation is performed in the primary stages of pathology, and the function of the knee joint is partially restored. The procedure is performed using a special endoscope, first punctures are madeare, and then the damaged areas of the joint are removed with tools. The operation is effective for young people and quickly eliminates pain;
2. The use of osteotomy is indicated for more severe joint deformities. The essence of the procedure lies in a particular fracture of the bone and its further correct fusion. In this case, the joint is restored, the pain disappears. AndAdditionally use the necessary parts of artificial tissues;
3. Implementation of endoprosthetics. This is one of the most difficult types of surgery. In this case, there is a complete replacement of the knee joint with a special implant, which performs all the functions of restoring the flexibility and forward movement of a personMost patients note fairly positive results, with significantly increased levels of physical activity.

treatment with physiotherapy

Physiotherapy at the initial stage of development of arthrosis is an effective method of treatment. She actively reduces
Relieves pain, muscle tension and partially restores the primary structure of the joint. The following are the types of physiological processes:

• Performing analgesic magnetotherapy. This procedure performs the normal functions of restoring and relieving pain in the body. The use of this method is effective in the first, second stage of the disease. The total duration of treatment is 9-15 procedures, lasting up to 30 minutesMoving on.
• The use of laser therapy as an anti-inflammatory action. When using this technique, the following types are used: treatment with infrared radiation, low-frequency UHF, centimeter wave therapy. Such methods allow the restoration of the joint. Favorably affect. Saturate connective tissue cells with nutrition, improve blood circulation. It should be noted that the use of UHF is combined with intra-articular administration of drugs, and centimeter wave therapy in the early stages of arthrosisEffective in stages. The average duration of the procedures is 10-20 times, and the duration is from 7 to 15 minutes.
• Physiological procedures of intense impact. A variety of procedures are used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee joint. Several basic techniques should be considered in detail.
• Ultrasonic waves. The most famous treatment for this disease. Significantly improves the processes of blood circulation, nutrition in the joint, restores cartilage tissue. It is recommended to use it within 14 days. The use of electrophoresis. The use of electric currents with the introduction of drugs. The advantage of this method is a significant restoration of the knee joint, while not having a strong load of the drug on the body. The number of procedures of one course is 10-12 times. Acting on the jointThe combination of several currents to do is the phenomenon of interventional therapy. A distinctive feature of the method is the stimulation of atrophied muscles and the restoration of blood circulation processes in the lymphatic system. With the development of the acute phase, it is prescribed twice a day for two weeks. The use of alternating current of impulsive nature also has an effective effect on the affected joint. This procedure is called darsonvalization and actively reduces pain while performing restorative work in the knee. The whole course of rehabilitation is 10-15 procedureswhich are for 15 daysA lasting about half an hour. Taking special therapeutic baths. They are an integral part of procedures for therapeutic measures of arthrosis. The combination of water with sage, hydrogen sulfide, radon, bischophite, therapeutic clay is very effective. These proceduresHas a great analgesic effect and can be applied topically or in 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 progression of the disease, but it is impossible to completely get rid of the disease! Therefore, it is very important to use all techniques aimed at maintaining a stable state and prolonging the established effect. One of the most effective methods are traditional medicine recipes in the form of compresses, dressings, ointments, tinctures that have a beneficial effect on the woundLet's put. The most effective means:

• Preparation of dandelion flowers.Used fresh, brewed in boiling water and alcohol-based tincture. It is recommended to eat 7-8 pieces of dandelion daily. Tincture is taken 100 ml three times a day before meals. Alcohol on the affected joint daily for a monthbased solution is applied;
• Horseradish Sec.This vegetable effectively reduces pain symptoms and partially restores normal joint function. The process of making the dressing is simple: grated horseradish is applied on gauze and applied to the wound overnight. The procedure should be repeated daily for about 30 days;
• 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 also use the crushed leaves or apply them to the affected area. The duration of treatment with the remedy should last at least a month;
• Tincture based on cinquefoil.The recipe of the preparation is to use the herb with alcohol and obtain a suitable solution for the prevention and treatment of arthrosis. The drug is taken 3-4 drops per day or used in the form of compresses. Treatment up to a monthkeeps on;
• A mixture of mustard, sand and salt.All components of the composition must be thoroughly mixed, and then put on a baking sheet and warm thoroughly. The hot mixture should be applied to the affected area and not removed until the compress cools. This method is effective in relieving pain, improving blood circulation in the joints. The procedure is not recommended during the acute course of the disease.

In the treatment of the disease, calendula, burdock, juniper are also used, as they have a beneficial effect on the restoration of the knee joint.

Non-traditional therapies for the treatment of arthrosis

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

1. Therapy with a leech is called hirudotherapy. This method is very effective. Since the worms are attached to the points of biological influence on the joint. At the same time, they secrete special enzymes that have healing properties, improving metabolic processes. is, and there is an increase in blood circulation in the joint. The time and duration of treatment is determined by a specialized doctor;
2. The use of acupuncture by injecting needles into the active points of the joint. It also offers several effective procedures in the treatment of arthrosis. They use direct acupuncture, point massage and special moxibustion sticks. Manipulation is performed only by a qualified specialist who is necessarySpecifies the number of sessions;
3. Treatment with hydrogen peroxide. The chemical compound is involved in all life processes of the body, therefore it is also used for arthrosis. The drug is diluted with water in a ratio of 1 cup to 3 drops of 3% H2O2 andis drunk 2 hours after eating. You can also use peroxide-based compresses;
4. Taking gelatin. This component is a natural source of collagen, which is necessary for the strength of bones and joints. The use of gelatin also has a therapeutic effect during arthrosis. The dosage is 10 grams per day. And the duration of treatment with this methodshould be at least 90 days. It is also good to use foods and dishes rich in gelatin (chicken, pork offal, cartilage, aspic);
5. Use of stem cells. Innovative method of treatment of arthrosis. Its specificity lies in stem cells, which have the ability to regenerate and regenerate into new cell systems. They are derived from human bone marrow and after 2 monthsThe cells are then injected into the affected joint. This therapy partially replaces the cartilage tissue and improves mobility of the knee.

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 trained patient. It is recommended that before starting the procedure, warm up the muscles with exercise therapy exercises and then do manipulations. A good effect is added to the use of water procedures with massage. Initially, the first session should last no more than 10 minutes, and then gradually increase to 20 minutes.

After the massage, the patient should feel a little relaxed and there should be no pain. If they are present, you need to consult a doctor about continuing the procedure further. Manipulations help well in the early stages of arthrosisdoes.

In individual cases manual therapy is used and carried out by a specialized doctor. For its implementation, the patient must have certain indications. The essence of the method lies in the soft reduction of the joint and its expansion. Muscles in this caseare activated, and the process of restoring joint mobility begins. Manipulations should be done 3-4 times throughout the year.

Treatment, prevention of arthrosis with exercise therapy

Performing special exercises called physical therapy is an effective way of treating arthrosis. To achieve the desired effect, you must follow the rules of complex gymnastic exercises:

1. Exercises are carried out only on the recommendation of the attending physician;
2. exercise regimen should be several times throughout the day;
3. exclusion of strong physical exertion;
4. during training, you need to take special breaks to give the joint a rest;
5. a combination of massage, therapeutic drugs and exercise therapy;
6. exercise is performed with a calm 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 is worth remembering that a set of special exercise therapy exercises is prescribed purely individually and is selected by a doctor specialist in this field.

doctor of medical science

This method of treatment was developed by a well-known scientist, a doctor of medical sciences. The essence of medicine is based on treating the patient with the help of physiological procedures without the use of drugs.

After a thorough examination, an individual treatment regimen is prescribed. In this case, there is no additional load on the joint, but special simulators are used. As analgesics, doctors use ice and other cooling materialssuggest.

In parallel with the conduct of this therapy, swimming, bath procedures, special massages, a steam room with subsequent cooling are also recommended.

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

Functions of a Rheumatologist

The renowned doctor has developed his own method of treating arthrosis. It is based on a combination of medical, mechanical treatment of the affected joint.

This method is performed according to the following scheme:

• use of non-steroidal drugs;
• the use of chondroprotective drugs;
• external use of creams, ointments of an anesthetic type;
• applying compresses;
• injection into the joint;
• manual therapy;
• physical processes;
• therapeutic physical culture;
• wearing special bandages, bandages, canes;
• Abstinence.

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

Treatment of arthrosis using modern methods of medicine

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

1. the phenomenon of kinotherapy, in which a specially designed set of exercises is prescribed, aimed at achieving the most positive effect;
2. The introduction of ozone in the United States is called ozone therapy. It is a type of physiological procedure that has appeared relatively recently and has gained popularity due to its high efficiency;
3. 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 methods of treatment are often used in the treatment of arthrosis and for the most part give positive results. The combination of methods is selected by a qualified rheumatologist.

Treatment of arthrosis in sanatorium-resort conditions

An indication for the treatment of arthrosis in a specialized hospital complex is the development of degenerative-dystrophic arthrosis.

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

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

Treatment of a sanatorium-resort type is prohibited with such contraindications:

• severe deformity of the joint;
• inflammatory process in the knee;
• deterioration of the general condition;
• The late stage of the disease in the acute stage.

Correct implementation of all prescribed procedures in the sanatorium and further improvement in general condition, restoration of the joint, resumption of its mobility for 6 months is a confirmation of favorable treatment in these conditions. At the same time, general analyzes show a positive trend.

Average cost of arthrosis treatment and feedback on the effectiveness of 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 recover.

It should be noted that the use of drugs of chondroprotective action is an expensive process, since the terms of their administration are quite long. In the treatment of pathology, a whole range of measures is prescribed, including a large pricing policy.

The final stage of arthrosis is characterized by complete deformity of the joint, which requires prosthetics. The prices of this operation are quite high. Therefore, the average cost of treatment is quite high and not to start the disease, but to itsIt is best to treat it in its early stages!

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

The third, fourth degree of the disease is practically not treated, and doctors recommend surgery. Depending on the degree of deformity of the knee, various surgical operations are performed, from reconstruction to complete replacement of the joint. The duration and timing of further remission also suggest prophylaxis and new surgical interventions.

In conclusion, it is pertinent to emphasize the important point of the article and say that arthrosis of the knee joint is a very serious serious disease that requires a lot of effort and time for partial recovery. Therefore, if youSuffering from this disease, you must strictly follow all the preventive methods to stop the progression of this pathology!