Arthrosis of the knee joint, or gonarthrosis, occupies a leading position in the incidence of arthrosis.This 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 arthrosis of the knee joint
They can be more or less pronounced and completely depend on the stage.
The pain syndrome at the beginning of the disease is almost unnoticeable, but as the disease progresses it intensifies.The first stage is characterized by fatigue in the legs and decreased joint mobility, usually in the morning.
At the second stage of arthrosis 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 go away 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 injuries - bone fractures, sprains and torn ligaments, bruises and others;
- excessive stress on the legs, most often among professional athletes and people who are forced to stand on their feet for a long time during the working day;
- various metabolic disorders that lead to the deposition of salts in the joint cavities;
- previous surgical operations to remove the meniscus;
- excess weight and obesity of all degrees, causing excessive stress on the legs;
- inflammatory processes in joint tissues - arthritis of various types.
Diagnosis and treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint
Diagnosis of arthrosis 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 his leg or walk 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 tissue - 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 - prosthetics - is prescribed.
Prevention of arthrosis of the knee joint
- Eat right: your diet should contain a sufficient amount of microelements, protein and vitamins;
- avoid excessive loads on the knee joint and its traumatic lesions;
- lead an active healthy lifestyle, give up bad habits;
- treat in a timely manner all diseases and pathologies that can provoke the appearance of arthrosis;
- control your body weight and prevent obesity.