Arthrosis of the knee is a chronic degenerative disease characterized by a violation of the integrity of the cartilage tissue and structural changes in the underlying bone plate. A progressive pathological process, which gradually covers all elements of the articular articulation, leads to an impairment of motor function. Leads to obvious impairment, impairs the ability to work and even causes disability.
Orthopedic specialists are engaged in the treatment of gonarthrosis. Timely diagnosis and a competent approach to orthopedic correction allow to achieve a positive result even in the most severe forms of pathology.
How does arthrosis of the knee joint develop?
Gonarthrosis of the knee joint (goni from the Greek language "knee") is a multifactorial disease. The list of reasons provoking the development of the pathological process includes:
- shock;
- chronic trauma associated with production factors or violations of the exercise regime;
- diseases (autoimmune, inflammatory, endocrine, vascular);
- overweight, obesity;
- burdened heredity (mutations of the gene encoding type II collagen chain - matrix of hyaline cartilage);
- congenital dysplasia and articular pathology;
- Haemophilia, frequent bleeding in the knee joint;
- Arthroscopic knee manipulation.
Prolonged exposure to adverse factors leads to a disruption of metabolic processes in the knee joint, the death of cartilaginous tissue cells, and a decrease in the density and elasticity of hyaline cartilage. Due to the weakening of protection against functional loads, Compensatory reactions develop. In the adjacent areas of the bone tissue, marginal growths (osteophytes) appear, which distort the osteoarticular articulation.
Progressive destruction consists of inflammation of the inner layer of the joint and a violation of the synthesis of synovial fluid, which increases the destruction of cartilage. As a result, its depreciating properties and functionality are reduced.
Symptoms of gonarthrosis
The primary complaint is a dull ache in the right or left knee. This first makes itself felt after a long walk or intense physical activity. Painful sensations may appear when you are on your feet for a long time and descend the stairs. As the degenerative process develops, other symptoms appear:
- morning stiffness of movements;
- periodic inflammation of the synovium (synovitis) and fluid accumulation in the joint;
- swelling, redness of the skin;
- increased pain in the surface of the anterior-internal joint;
- crunch, crepitus on movement;
- deformity of the knee joint;
- limiting leg flexion and extension;
- changes in walking stereotypes, impaired motor function;
- Development of X or O-distortion.
The result of pathological changes, characteristic of an advanced stage, can be closure and complete immobilization of the joint (ankylosis).
Who's at risk?
Gonarthrosis is the most common form of osteoarthritis, accounting for 33. 3% of the total number of degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the musculoskeletal system. It is found in all age groups. The disease most vulnerable to:
- elderly and elderly persons;
- women during menopause;
- people with increased body weight;
- professional athlete;
- Patients who have undergone joint surgery or have congenital anomalies of the musculoskeletal system.
knee arthrosis degree
There are 4 degrees of gonarthrosis. When specifying them, the percentage of osteoarticular degradation is taken into account:
- I - initial -<10%;
- II - stage of increasing symptoms, 10-25%;
- III - the most pronounced clinical manifestations, 25-50%;
- IV - terminal, >50% loss.
Knee disorders can be primary or secondary. Primary (idiopathic) arthrosis caused by aging of the articular cartilage is often bilateral and is diagnosed in elderly patients. The secondary degenerative process is the result of trauma and pathological disorders. They are usually one-sided and can debut at any age.
Which doctor should I go to?
Arthrosis (knee joint), the symptoms of which can develop slowly and imperceptibly, which is why it is called a very fatal disease. The destruction of cartilage can be prevented only by seeking timely medical helpTreatment of knee arthrosis is the responsibility of orthopedists, traumatologists, arthrologists and sports medicine specialists.
Quote from a Rehabilitation Specialist
Injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system can significantly reduce activity levels in the sporting context and on an everyday basis. Rehabilitation aims at maximum possible recovery, compensation for impaired or completely lost functions. A multi-Thematic, comprehensive, but at the same time individual approach allows you to reduce the recovery time. The specialists of the clinic strive to form a responsible attitude of the patient to the rehabilitation process and their health.
methods of diagnosis
To detect structural changes in the knee joint, instrumental diagnostic techniques are used:
- radiography;
- arthroscopy;
- ultrasonography;
- whistle;
- scintigraphy;
- MRI.
The introduction of magnetic resonance imaging in orthopedic practice has significantly expanded the diagnostic capabilities. A safe informative visualization method allows you to make a detailed assessment of the condition of the osteoarticular and surrounding soft tissue structures in almost all parameters:
- hyaline cartilage;
- subchondral bone;
- marrow;
- medial and lateral meniscus;
- cruciate and collateral ligaments;
- Synovium and synovial cavity.
An MRI image of the knee joint (with arthrosis) reveals the presence of synovitis, bursitis, cysts, deformities and intra-articular bodies. Therefore, tomography can completely replace radiography and other diagnostic studies.
treatment
Treatment of gonarthrosis is recommended to begin as early as possible. It pursues the following goals: to reduce the progression of the pathological process, eliminate pain, restore the homogeneity of the articular surfaces and achieve remission. 4 Main therapeuticsAreas are:
- preventive (weight loss, injury prevention, wearing orthoses, physical education);
- drug therapy;
- physical therapy treatment;
- surgical correction.
The rehabilitation center successfully uses complex drug-free treatment of gonarthrosis. It includes a dosage load on the joint, kinesiotherapy techniques, physiotherapy. The greatest positive effect is provided by microwave therapy, electrophoresis, therapeutic exercises and manual therapy.
rehabilitation
The main point of recovery of patients suffering from arthrosis of the knee joint is physical rehabilitation. It helps to prevent the development of a pathological process, reduce pain, eliminate edema, strengthen the periarticular muscles, normalize local blood circulation, There is a set of measures aimed at maintaining and improving mobility.
The rehabilitation center actively uses rehabilitation programs that involve the use of modern technical means and patented high-tech simulators. An individual set of physical exercises is developed for each patient. It depends on age, general condition, lifestyle, physicalTakes into account the capabilities and the degree of damage to the knee joint.
Result
The neglected form of gonarthrosis has irreversible consequences:
- severe deformity and shortening of the diseased limb;
- ankle and hip joint disorders, spine problems;
- persistent excruciating pain and drug dependence;
- loss of ability to move independently;
- Disability.
prophylaxis
To maintain health and prevent the continued development of degenerative processes, you should follow simple rules:
- follow a healthy lifestyle;
- eat right and control the calorie content of food;
- maintain a healthy weight and adequate physical activity;
- protect your knees from injury and microtrauma;
- reducing the impact of harmful factors;
- strengthen immunity;
- When playing sports, strictly follow the squat technique;
- timely treatment of inflammatory diseases;
- undergo regular examinations even with normal health;
- Choose comfortable shoes.
It is not yet possible to completely cure the deforming arthrosis of the knee joint. But this disease can be avoided. The main thing is to take preventive measures and not to postpone the visit to a specialist.