Arthrosis of the knee joint, or gonarthrosis, occupies a leading position in the frequency of arthrosis.It is a degenerative-dystrophic disease of a chronic nature that affects all elements of the joint.Cartilage begins to break down, changes occur in the capsule, synovial membrane, ligament 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 imperceptible, but as the disease progresses, it intensifies.The first stage is characterized by fatigue in the legs and reduced mobility of the joints, usually in the morning.
In 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 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 injuries - broken bones, sprains and torn ligaments, bruises and others;
- excessive load 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;
- overweight and obesity of all degrees, which leads to excessive load on the legs;
- inflammatory processes in joint tissues - arthritis of various types.
Diagnosis and treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint
The diagnosis of arthrosis of the knee joint is carried out 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 their leg or take a few steps.Then, if it is necessary to clarify the stage of the disease or the nature of the pathological changes, he will refer you for additional research.For example, for computed tomography or radiography.
Treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint is often complex, aimed at eliminating pain and restoring the functions of cartilage, ligaments and joints.
Anti-inflammatory drugs, creams and rubs are used to reduce pain.To protect the joint tissue - chondroprotectors.Sometimes hormonal drugs are prescribed.
Physiotherapy procedures and therapeutic exercises aimed at activating blood circulation in the area of the joint 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 properly: your diet should contain a sufficient amount of trace elements, proteins and vitamins;
- avoid excessive loading of the knee joint and its traumatic 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.