Arthritis is a chronic joint disease that manifests itself in adulthood.A characteristic sign of the disease is the destruction of cartilage and changes in bone structure.Most often, people over the age of forty are susceptible to various types of arthrosis, but today they are increasingly common among the younger generation.
Causes of the disease
The main cause of arthrosis is age-related changes.Over time, bones and ligaments weaken, less vitamins and trace elements are supplied, all of which negatively affects the entire body.According to doctors, every year the symptoms of arthrosis appear earlier and earlier, which is associated with poor ecology, unbalanced nutrition and bad habits.Other factors contribute to arthrosis, conditionally divided into two groups (primary and secondary).Among them are:
- Excess weight leads to stress on the joints, which contributes to arthrosis and its rapid development.
- Hard working conditions that stress the joints.Miners, metallurgists, masons, etc. are at risk.
- Disorder in the functioning of the endocrine system.
- Repetitive joint injuries.
- Hereditary predisposition.
Common causes of the secondary type include injuries, autoimmune diseases, blood clotting, inflammatory processes in the joints, hormonal disorders, impaired blood supply, hypothermia, and others.Osteoarthritis is provoked by constant stress on the hands, professional sports, arthritis and congenital disorders of the joint structure.
Symptoms of the disease
The development of arthrosis is gradual.Initially, no signs indicate its presence in the body.Cracking in the joints becomes the first symptom, which is why it is worth paying attention to the damage.The pain syndrome is absent or manifests in a weak form without a clear localization.Gradually, stiffness appears in the joints, the nature of the pain becomes brighter and more intense.Most often, the symptoms of the disease appear after a long period of rest or heavy physical work.
Arthritis is manifested by morning stiffness, but after light training it disappears.Gradually, the picture is supplemented by night pain and the reaction of the joints "in time".Constant crunching is heard, movements are limited and painful.Patients often complain of unpleasant sensations in the back and spine;it is difficult for them to find a comfortable position during sleep, as movements are accompanied by spasms and pain.Acute attacks are replaced by periods of relief, but then the symptoms return.
Types and degrees of the disease
Doctors distinguish four degrees of arthrosis.The first degree of danger is the absence or weak sensation of pain.Even with a medical examination, it is not always possible to diagnose the disease.Palpation of the area gives a good result;in this case, an experienced attending physician will detect slight changes in the area of the damaged joint.This stage is characterized by a satisfactory condition of the patient;all pain symptoms are due to weather conditions or fatigue.
The second degree manifests itself with noticeable symptoms.The pain syndrome becomes stronger, but remains tolerable.At this stage, the destruction of the joint and the appearance of osteophytes begin.Cramping and general malaise are now constant companions of the patient.At this stage, it is important to recognize and start treating arthrosis in time with special drugs.
In third-degree arthrosis, the cartilage thins significantly, extensive foci of destruction appear, and tissue nutrition is disturbed.Multiple osteophytes are visible to the naked eye and severe deformity is noted.
Fourth degree arthrosis is characterized by severe changes and deformation.No joint space.
Diagnostic measures and treatment
Treatment of arthrosis is impossible without a diagnosis.A rheumatologist is involved in this.
The first stage involves gathering information from the patient.The specialist asks about the time of the first symptoms, the nature and location of the pain and determines the associated factors.The following diagnostic steps before treating osteoarthritis include:
- The main diagnostic method is X-ray examination.
- Puncture of the joints to determine the degree of change.
- Biopsy - determines the state of the joints at the time of the examination.
A blood test and a number of additional tests are also required.
The necessary treatment regimen for arthrosis is selected based on the information obtained and the results of laboratory tests.Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to defeat arthrosis in the final stages.But regular courses of treatment and prevention will help the patient to improve his quality of life.
In other cases, the treatment of arthrosis consists of a complex of measures and depends on the degree of development of the disease.Possible treatments:
- Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory, restorative injections and medications.
- Sanatorium-resort procedures.
- Massages and physiotherapy.
- Electrophoresis, etc.
Along with the main treatment regimen for arthrosis, it is recommended to adjust your diet, lose weight and reduce physical activity.
In some cases, folk remedies are used to treat arthrosis, but only on the prescription of a specialist.At home, during treatment, you can use ointments, gels, herbs prescribed by your doctor.In severe cases, surgical methods are used to treat arthrosis.Depending on the stage of the disease, the damaged areas are replaced with analogues.This helps restore mobility and relieve pain.
Preventive measures
Any disease is easier to prevent than to cure.Adherence to simple rules and regular examinations will help reduce the likelihood of developing various types of arthrosis.
It is recommended to avoid excessive exercise, but do not forget about preventive sports.It is better to choose gentle sports as a sport.Walking, swimming and light jogging are ideal.It is worth giving up bad habits and leading a healthy lifestyle.If you are overweight, adjust your diet and introduce foods rich in vitamins and minerals into your diet.If you have problems with the endocrine system, do not neglect treatment, but visit an endocrinologist.