How to diagnose and treat knee arthritis?

Arthritis of the knee joint is also called gonorrhea arthritis or osteoarthritis deformans. This disease can have serious consequences, including disability. At the first signs of lupus, a doctor should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment. The treatment must be completed in strict accordance with the terms and other regulations.

General characteristics of the disease

Gonorrhea is a progressive lesion of the cartilage in the articular surface. As a result of this change, joint function is impaired and pain occurs.

Osteoarthritis deformans is chronic. In most cases, the disease progresses slowly, but certain factors can accelerate its progress. This mainly involves the individual characteristics of the body, the patient's activity and physical activity, and accompanying pathology.

Often confused two concepts-arthritis and arthritis. These pathologies are similar in some characteristics, but differ in the nature of the course. Only an expert can make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe an appropriate treatment plan.

Due to gonorrhea, the mechanism of cartilage nutrition is destroyed, so its function is gradually destroyed. In arthropathy of various locations, knee joint disease occurs in every two-thirds of patients.

Causes of primary arthritis of the knee

This is the most common form of disease. Older women are at risk of developing a major pathology, especially if they are overweight (degree 2 or 3 obesity).

There is a view that primary gonorrhea is related to average life expectancy. Compared with the past few centuries, it has increased significantly, and the joints gradually wear out over time.

Lupus disease associated with natural aging is considered normal. If the articular cartilage is destroyed earlier or the process is too violent, it is considered pathological.

Causes of secondary arthritis of the knee

Secondary gonorrhea can be triggered by the following factors:

• Genetic susceptibility, as long as it can be clearly found;
• Broken leg;
• Dislocation of the knee joint;
• Meniscus injury;
• Congenital knee dysplasia;
• Extreme physical exercise (typical for athletes);
• Constant static load;
• Rheumatism;
• Rheumatoid arthritis (not to be confused with rheumatism);
• Ankylosing spondylitis;
• Congenital lower extremity deformities-valgus or varus;
• Congenital shortening of limbs;
• Metabolic syndrome;
• Gout;
• Acromegaly;
• Osteomyelitis;
• Chondroscosis;
• Pathology related to material exchange;
• Hypermobility of joints-ligament devices are inherently fragile;
• Hemochromatosis;
• Diabetes;
• Pathology of the endocrine system.

There are many possible causes of osteoarthritis deformation, so this pathology is called multiple etiology. It is usually impossible to determine the exact cause of the disease, so it can be diagnosed as primary (idiopathic) gonorrhea.

Symptoms of gonorrhea

In addition to pain (main symptom), pathology may also be accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Press and click.These symptoms usually appear during exercise and are often ignored by patients. Knee tightening may mean grooves, osteophytes, and ulcers on the joint surface.
• Constrained action.This symptom is very important in the diagnosis process because it can distinguish gonorrhea from other pathologies that affect the musculoskeletal system. Exercise is usually stiff in the morning. When a person starts to walk, this symptom disappears within half an hour. If stiffness persists for an hour or more, it may indicate an inflammatory process or other pathology.
• Reduced range of motion.This symptom indicates that the patient cannot bend the knee completely. This is due to the pain syndrome, which makes people try to reduce the intensity of leg movements. Over time, this causes the ligaments to shorten, which is called contracture.
• The joint is stuck.Corneal disease can cause joint blockage in a specific location, and it cannot be displaced due to severe pain. When the internal ligaments of the stretched knee protrude from the pineal gland, this usually occurs due to changes in the joint surface. In this case, only the reverse displacement of the ligaments can help. It is less common that the cause of joint jams is foreign bodies entering the joint cavity. The source of trouble can be part of the meniscus or fragments of osteophytes.

Disease classification

Each stage has a specific function:

1. The first stageis ​​the initial stage, also known as the simple stage. The first sign of pathology is considered its beginning, and the transition to the next stage is characterized by the appearance of bone deformities. They can be detected by visual inspection or X-ray. In the first stage of the disease, fluid accumulation in the joints has begun-this phenomenon is called synovitis. It was him who caused the pain, and only showed it when he moved. Their intensity can vary.
2. In the second (medium) stage of gonorrhea, pathological changes can be seen even visually. They are manifested by increased size and deformation of the knee. On X-rays, you can see that the bone tissue at the edge of the joint has grown and the joint space has narrowed. It is at this stage that the pain syndrome manifests from the smallest load. When walking or squatting, the knee begins to crunch.
3. Third (serious) stageDeformed osteoarthritis is diagnosed when there is almost no cartilage in the joint. If the pathology is difficult, the bones can grow together, which will cause the affected limb to be completely immobile.

The exact stage of gonorrhea is determined by experts. In this case, instead of focusing on the symptoms of the disease, you should focus on the X-rays received. Pathology does not always follow standard patterns.

Diagnosis

Only instrumented diagnostic procedures can help determine osteoarthritis osteoarthritis:

• X-ray;
• Ultrasound scan;
• Tomography-computer or magnetic resonance imaging;
• Arthroscopy;
• Thermal imaging;
• Scintigraphy.

Usually, an X-ray is sufficient to detect gonorrhea. It is executed in two projections. If only one knee is affected, images of healthy limbs are still taken to compare the results.

Which doctors should I seek for help?

For osteoarthritis deformans, different experts can be involved. In regular clinics, they usually consult a surgeon.

Arthrologists, rheumatologists, and orthopedists usually deal with the problem of gonorrhea. In addition, the participation of chiropractors and arthroscopy physicians may be required. A physical therapist, physical therapy instructor, and massage therapist are usually involved in the process.

Treatment of gonorrhea

The treatment of knee arthritis takes a long time. In most cases, outpatient treatment is sufficient. It means a series of measures. The treatment is based on medication, physical therapy and physical therapy exercises. In some cases, surgery is required. When suffering from corneal disease, folk recipes can also be used, but it must be combined with traditional medicine.

Medications

The use of various drugs is the main part of the treatment of lupus disease. For this disease, comprehensive measures are needed, which means that the following drugs may be used:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.These drugs can be prepared in various forms, but for osteoarthritis, oral tablets, injections, creams, ointments, and gels for external use are preferred. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can not only fight inflammation, but also relieve pain.
• Corticosteroids.Such drugs are usually used when the disease is severe or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are ineffective. They are usually used as injections to inject drugs into the joint capsule. Corticosteroids are used as a symptomatic treatment to eliminate inflammation and severe pain.
• Analgesics.When prescribing such drugs, the severity of the pain syndrome should be considered. If the intensity of the pain syndrome is high, they will resort to strong opioids.
• Cartilage protector.Because of these drugs, cartilage tissue is full of nutrients that stimulate cell growth. The effect of chondroprotective agents will be manifested for a long time, so it can be used for long-term treatment. Such drugs are suitable for grade 1 or 2 pathology.
• Antispasmodic and muscle relaxant.Such drugs are necessary when the pathology is accompanied by muscle cramps.
• Vasodilators.This medicine can improve blood flow and relieve the spasm of small blood vessels. The combination of vasodilators and chondroprotective agents is effective because in this case, the cartilage tissue is better saturated with nutrients.
• Gentle ointmentcan improve blood circulation. Such funding is appropriate in the absence of synovitis.

The medicine is prescribed by a doctor. Only he can determine which medicine is needed in each specific situation according to the plan that each medicine needs to take and the treatment course of each prescription medicine.

Physical Therapy

In osteoarthritis deformans, various physical therapy methods are actively used. They are used for multiple purposes: to relieve pain, relieve inflammation, activate blood supply and accelerate recovery.

The following physical therapy methods can effectively treat knee arthritis:

• Make a sound.This technology is an ultrasound therapy that combines the effects of drugs. Due to the high frequency vibration, the tissues of the knee joint will heat up, thus ensuring a deeper penetration of medicinal substances.
• Shockwave therapy.This process uses a special device to generate radial sound waves. Under their action, the blood supply in the area around the joint is activated, which stimulates the recovery of cartilage and bone structure.
• Ozone therapy.This process involves the use of active oxygen. It has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects on tissues.
• Electrical muscle stimulation.This technique is usually used during rehabilitation and when there are exercise contraindications. Under the influence of electrical pulses, muscle tension increases and blood circulation improves.
• Diathermy.This technology involves electrotherapy, involving the use of high-intensity high-frequency currents for deep heating.
• Cryotherapy.This technique is also called cold processing. The affected skin area is exposed to low temperature for a short time. This method can restore metabolic processes, increase blood circulation, reduce the severity of inflammation, eliminate pain, and relieve muscle spasms.
• Sham therapy.This technique is considered an alternative method. Water is placed around the affected joint. This procedure can provide good pain relief, reduce swelling, and stimulate regeneration.
• Laser therapy.This technique is usually used in the early stages of pathology. It provides anti-inflammatory, analgesic and stimulating effects.
• Plasma therapy.This process is also called joint plasma boosting. It involves intra-articular injections. For them, use the patient's own plasma, which is full of platelets. This process can reduce inflammation and promote the regeneration of cartilage tissue.
• Rehabilitation bath-Turpentine, ra, hydrogen sulfide.
• Acupuncture.This method is usually used in the initial stages of pathology. This technique reduces swelling, eliminates pain and restores joint mobility.

Exercise therapy

Gonorrhea requires physical therapy. Various exercises must be supervised by qualified professionals. The main purpose of exercise therapy is to restore joint range of motion and achieve a certain range of motion. It is also necessary to increase strength and muscle endurance.

Do not use exercise therapy during the worsening of the disease. At this time, the joints need rest and maximum relaxation. When inflammation and pain are relieved, exercise is allowed, and it takes at least 5 days from now on.

The exercise therapy plan should be developed for each patient individually. The particularity of the course, the severity of the course, and the individual characteristics of the patient must be considered.

Gymnastics

At home, people with lupus can do some exercises independently. You need to do it in stages-first you need to warm up, then do strength exercises and finish stretching.

The preheating method is as follows:

• Spread your feet shoulder-width apart, and lower your arms along your body or lean on the back of a chair. Slowly lift your toes, hover at the highest point for 3 seconds, then transfer the weight to the heel steadily, making the toes as high as possible. Do 10 repetitions without sudden movement.
• The starting position remains unchanged. It is necessary to raise the leg with the bent knee to waist level and then lower it. Repeat 15 times alternately on each leg. Movement should be slow and smooth.
• Lie on your back, raise your bent knee, and simulate the rotation of a bicycle pedal. You need to spin in one direction for half a minute and then in the other direction. Move slowly.
• Separate your feet shoulder-width apart, straighten your back, and bend your elbows. Simulate running on the spot, alternately transferring weight from one leg to the other. The movement should be performed on the toes and do not tilt the heel. Exercise for about 5 minutes.

Surgery

Osteoarthritis deformans may require surgery. They use the following options:

• Piercing.This intervention is minimally invasive. It is not only used to study the fluid in the joint cavity, but also to remove excess fluid. The result of this operation is to reduce inflammation and restore joint mobility, but sometimes only partially.
• Arthroscopy.This process can be performed as an independent operation or as one of its stages. This technique is endoscopy and does not require dissection of the joint cavity. In order to operate, a special thin and flexible instrument is used, and all operations are controlled by a miniature camera. If arthroscopy is used as a stand-alone operation, remove the affected cartilage from the joint surface during this process.
• Osteotomy around the joint.This kind of surgery hurts people. It is used to redistribute the load on the knee, thereby reducing pain syndrome and making the joints more mobile. During the operation, the bones involved in the formation of the knee joint are sawn open and then fixed in other positions. This surgical procedure is suitable for grade 1 or 2 deformable osteoarthritis.
• Internal repair surgery.This operation is performed after the diagnosis of the third degree gonorrhea. During the operation, the knee joint is replaced with a biocompatible structure. The previous range of motion and the patient's normal quality of life must be restored. Internal prosthesis is a rather complicated operation, so it requires a long recovery time.

Diet and general advice

Although pathology can affect the knee joint, its treatment means that you must adhere to diet. It must comply with the following principles:

• If necessary, normalize your weight. BMI must not exceed 20. Weight loss should be done gradually-2-3 kg per month.
• Reduce carbohydrates and animal fat.
• Most of the fat you eat should be of plant origin.
• You need to eat fish at least 1-2 times a week.
• You should consume small amounts. The portion should be small, but there should be 5 to 6 meals a day.
• Every meal eats vegetables or fruits.
• For cooking, you should choose cooking methods, including steaming, stewing, and baking.
• Follow your drinking habits. On average, a person needs 2 liters of liquid per day, and in most cases it should be clean water without gas.
• Drink water before eating. A drink half an hour before a meal is enough.
• Reduce salt intake.
• Avoid alcohol, carbonated and sugary drinks.
• Beef, pork, semi-finished products, peppers, cabbage, and sour fruits should be excluded from the diet.
• You can eat jelly meat, jelly, gelatin, cheese, cheese, chicken, beans.

Traditional Medicine

In the treatment of osteoarthritis deformans, unconventional methods are also suitable. In this case, you should consult a specialist, because even natural remedies have contraindications.

Use the following folk recipes effectively:

• Lubricate the back of the cow d leaf with honey, apply it to the affected area, fix and insulate it with cellophane film. Keep compressed for up to 4 hours.
• You can use cabbage leaves instead of cow d. You can knead it with your hands or poke it in several places. Honey is optional.
• For internal use, you can use the tincture of Niu A root. The raw materials must be chopped and steamed with boiling water to stick. Drink 5 tablespoons every day.
• Rinse the potato sprouts, put them in a glass container, and cover with alcohol. Place it in the dark for 3 weeks, tighten it and use it 3 times a day to wipe the affected area.
• Heat the honey to a liquid state in a water bath, then rub it into the affected area and massage it. Cover and insulate the treatment area with gauze or bandage. Repeat this process every day for a week and a half.
• Steam 5 tablespoons. l. Oatmeal, simmer for 5-8 minutes. Wrap the cooled mixture with natural cloth, apply it to the affected area and fix it with polyethylene. Prepare fresh mixture every time.
• Mix the iodine, honey and glycerin evenly, and let stand for 3 hours. Dip a cotton pad into the resulting composition and move the knee and adjacent areas from bottom to top.
• Chop garlic and add a cup of vegetable oil. Stay in the dark for a week, tired, and then apply to the affected area before going to bed.
• Grate white school chalk and mix it with yogurt or sour cream to make a thick slurry. Wrap it in natural fabric and compress it for 2. 5 hours, and then insulate it with polyethylene. Repeat the process every day.
• Boil two large onions in a liter of distilled water with their husks and drain the water. Drink 3 infusions a day before meals.

The treatment of gonorrhea should not be limited to traditional medicine. This disease requires a comprehensive approach, which must include medication and exercise.

Prognosis, possible complications

Due to the progressive nature of the disease, the general prognosis of osteoarthritis deformans is poor. The process of tissue degradation and joint deformation cannot be reversed, but it can be stopped or slowed down significantly.

The following factors will affect the prognosis of gonorrhea:

• The age of the patient.The younger he is, the worse the prognosis. The pathological process develops gradually. Therefore, in the joint damage of young people, the disease can reach an advanced stage in old age and cause various complications.
• Types of arthritis.In the main pathology, only the joints are affected and the disease usually progresses slowly. For secondary diseases, there are other diseases that can accelerate this process or cause complications.
• Follow the doctor's orders.This involves taking the necessary medications, performing physical therapy procedures, and performing exercise therapy to ensure joint unloading. It is also important to observe the duration of medications, because most medications need to be taken regularly during certain courses.
• Weight.If the patient is heavy, the pressure on the joints will increase, which will have a negative impact on the course of the disease.
• Occupation.This factor is very important for the prognosis of the disease. Professional athletes, people who are constantly under pressure or who often stand up, always suffer more pain. When the joints are in one position for a long time, sitting still can have a negative impact on the progression of the disease.

Osteoarthritis deforms slowly, but without proper treatment, it can lead to many complications:

• Joint deformities.This happens in the final stage of the disease. The legs may bend at unnatural angles, which is not only aesthetically unpleasant, but also leads to complete loss of joint function.
• infection.Small trauma (for example, cracks in cartilage tissue) can cause this complication. Pathogens can enter the joints with water or lymph from the focal point of the infection. Surgical intervention-arthroscopy, diagnostic puncture may also be the cause of infection. Introduction of infection into the joint can cause aseptic necrosis.
• Dislocation, fracture.This complication occurs when the knee joint function is violated. In this case, the load is not distributed correctly, and too much can cause injury.
• Tonicity.In this case, the bones of the missing joints will grow together. This is one of the most serious diseases because of the loss of motor function due to the fixed calf in one position.

In most cases, complications are caused by the fault of the patient, who neglected his condition or ignored the doctor’s order.

Prevention

To avoid knee arthritis, some precautions should be taken:

• Maintain a normal weight;
• Avoid heavy objects and strong knees;
• Ensure regular and adequate physical exercise;
• Avoid hurting joints;
• If you are injured, you must receive timely, competent and complete treatment;
• Strengthen the muscles around the joints.

The secondary prevention measures should also be emphasized. They are necessary when gonorrhea has been diagnosed, and it is necessary to reduce the rate of its development. In this case, you need to take the following measures:

• Seek help from a series of cartilage protectors every six months or a year;
• Timely, fast and effective treatment of arthritis.

Knee arthritis is a serious pathology with a poor prognosis and may cause many complications. It is necessary to start treatment as early as possible to slow down the pathological process. Treatment should be comprehensive, and some techniques should be part of the lifestyle: diet, exercise, taking certain drugs.