Osteoarthritis of the knee joint, or gonarthrosis, occupies a preponderant place in the incidence of osteoarthritis.It is a degenerative-dystrophic disease of a chronic nature that affects all elements of the joint.The cartilage begins to deteriorate, changes occur in the capsule, synovial membrane, ligamentous apparatus and adjacent bone structures.The disease also has an additional name - gonarthrosis.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee joint
They can be more or less pronounced and depend entirely on the stage.
Pain syndrome at the beginning of the disease is almost imperceptible, but as the disease progresses, it intensifies.The first stage is characterized by leg fatigue and decreased joint mobility, usually in the morning.
In the second stage of osteoarthritis of the knee joint, the pain is accompanied by a crunching sound that accompanies 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 approach changes.
Causes of osteoarthritis of the knee joint
- Various injuries - bone fractures, sprains and torn ligaments, bruises and others;
- excessive stress on the legs, most often among professional athletes and people forced to stand for a long time during the working day;
- various metabolic disorders leading to the deposition of salts in the joint cavities;
- previous surgeries to remove the meniscus;
- excess weight and obesity of any degree, causing excessive stress on the legs;
- inflammatory processes in joint tissues - arthritis of various types.
Diagnosis and treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee joint
The diagnosis of osteoarthritis of the knee joint takes place 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 the leg or take a few steps.Then, if it is necessary to specify the stage of the disease or the nature of the pathological changes, he will direct you towards additional studies.For example, for CT scanning or x-ray.
Treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee joint is often complex and aims to eliminate pain and restore cartilage, ligaments and joint functions.
To reduce pain, anti-inflammatory drugs, creams and frictions are used.To protect joint tissues - chondoprotectors.Sometimes hormonal drugs 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 - prostheses - is prescribed.
Prevention of osteoarthritis of the knee joint
- Eat well: your diet should contain a sufficient amount of microelements, proteins and vitamins;
- avoid excessive loads on the knee joint and its traumatic injuries;
- lead a healthy and active lifestyle, give up bad habits;
- treat in time all diseases and pathologies that can cause the appearance of osteoarthritis;
- control your weight and prevent obesity.