Arthrosis of the knee joint, i.e. gonarthrosis, occupies a leading place in the frequency of arthrosis.It is a chronic degenerative-dystrophic disease that affects all elements of the joint.Cartilage begins to deteriorate, changes occur in the capsule, synovial membrane, ligament apparatus and adjacent bone structures.The disease has an additional name - gonarthrosis.
Symptoms of arthrosis of the knee joint
They can be more or less pronounced and completely depend on the scene.
The pain syndrome is almost imperceptible at the beginning of the disease, but it becomes stronger as the disease progresses.The first stage is characterized by leg fatigue and reduced joint mobility, usually in the morning.
In the second stage of arthrosis of the knee joint, the pain is accompanied by a cracking sound, accompanied by movement and limited mobility.
The third stage of the disease has a more serious clinical picture - the pain does not disappear even 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 types of injuries - bone fractures, sprains and tearing of ligaments, bruises and others;
- excessive stress on the legs, most often in professional athletes and people who are forced to stand for a long time during the working day;
- various metabolic disorders that lead to deposition of salts in the joint cavity;
- previous surgical operations to remove the meniscus;
- Overweight and obesity of all degrees, which causes excessive stress on the legs;
- Inflammatory processes in joint tissues - different 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 damaged joint, palpates it, listens to complaints and asks additional questions.Conducts several tests - for example, asks the patient to bend the 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 to 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.
Anti-inflammatory drugs, creams and rubs are used to reduce pain.To protect the tissue of the joints - joint protectors.Sometimes hormonal drugs are prescribed.
Physiotherapy 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 enough microelements, proteins and vitamins;
- avoid excessive load on the knee joint and its traumatic injuries;
- lead an active healthy lifestyle, give up bad habits;
- Timely treatment of all diseases and pathologies that can provoke the appearance of arthrosis;
- Control your body weight and prevent obesity.