Arthrosis, or gonarthrosis, of the knee joint holds the leading position in the incidence of arthrosis.It is a degenerative-dystrophic disease of a chronic nature that affects all elements of the joint.The cartilage begins to degrade, changes occur in the capsule, synovial membrane, ligamentous apparatus and adjacent bone structures.This disease also has an additional name - gonarthrosis.
Symptoms of arthrosis of the knee joint
They may be more or less pronounced and depend entirely on the stage.
At the beginning of the disease the pain syndrome is almost not noticeable, but it intensifies as the disease progresses.The first stage causes fatigue in the legs and reduced joint mobility, usually in the morning.
In the second stage of arthrosis of the knee joint, the pain is accompanied by a crunching sound that occurs with movement and limited mobility.
The third stage of the disease has a more severe clinical picture – the pain does not go away even at rest, severe deformities are noticeable, and the joints lose their function.Apart from this the gait also changes.
Causes of arthrosis of the knee joint
- Various injuries – bone fractures, sprains and torn ligaments, bruises and others;
- Excessive stress on the legs, often among professional athletes and those who are forced to stand on their feet for long periods of time during the working day;
- Various metabolic disorders that cause deposition of salts in the joint cavities;
- Previous surgical operation to remove the meniscus;
- Excess weight and obesity of all degrees, causing excessive stress on the legs;
- Inflammatory processes in joint tissues - various types of arthritis.
Diagnosis and treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint
Arthrosis of the knee joint is diagnosed 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, asking the patient to bend his leg or take 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 is often complex, aimed at eliminating pain and restoring cartilage, ligaments and joint functions.
To reduce pain, anti-inflammatory drugs, creams and rubs are used.To protect joint tissues - chondroprotectors.Sometimes hormonal medications 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 treatment – prosthetics – is prescribed.
Prevention of arthrosis of the knee joint
- Eat right: Your diet should contain adequate amounts of microelements, proteins and vitamins;
- Avoid excessive load on the knee joint and its painful 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.