What is arthrosis and how to treat it

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative chronic changes in the cartilage of the joint, which results in further deformation of the bone tissue. The disease covers not only the cartilage but the entire joint as a whole (synovium, ligaments, periarticular muscle, subchondral bone). The first thing arthritis affects the knee, followed by hip joints, then the joints of the big toes. Much less from this disease affects the interphalangeal and ankle joints, located on the fingers.

In the initial stage of disease appear mild pain in the affected joints. This is the reason that osteoarthritis very often trigger. Pain in the second stage of the disease occurs at low loads on the joints. In the third stage of osteoarthritis the pain will haunt even when stationary. Another proof of the disease is rough and dry crunch arising from the friction of the articular surfaces. Here it should be noted that the sonorous crunch in the joints is harmless in the absence of pain. Another major symptom of osteoarthritis – modification of the affected joints.

There are several basic principles of treatment of osteoarthritis: orthopedic treatment, pharmacotherapy, limiting stress on the joints, therapeutic exercise, proper nutrition, the saturation of the joint with oxygen, shock-wave and laser therapy, magnetic therapy, pulsed electromagnetic therapy, intraosseous blockade, decompression of metaepiphysis, Spa treatment. This scheme is considered a classic in the treatment of osteoarthritis.

It should also highlight drug therapy, which aims to reduce inflammation and pain. Doctors often prescribe NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) intramuscularly or intravenously to rapidly obtain the therapeutic effect and not to injure the mucous membrane of the stomach. Local use of these funds is seen as a complement to the basic treatment, since the effectiveness of the gels, and ointments is extremely low.

In acute disease prescribe hormonal corticosteroids intra-articular ("Kenalog", "Diprospan", "Hydrocortisone"). Sometimes, in addition use the alkaloid of hot pepper in the form of ointment, plaster, or alcohol tinctures. Also, the doctor prescribes a substance, which help to repair cartilage, improve the quality of the fluid in the joints – chondroprotectors. Course duration lasts as long as the patient does not receive the first effect. If within six months of signs of the influence of the drugs is not observed, then cancel it.