Arthrosis

Arthrosis is a chronic progressive disease of the joints, which is characterized by degenerative-dystrophic damage to cartilage tissue and the development of reactive changes in the parts of bones adjacent to the cartilage.

With arthrosis, there is a gradual loss of cartilage tissue in the joints. This leads to thinning and softening of the cartilage, resulting in a decrease in its shock-absorbing function. In addition, with arthrosis, osteophytes are observed - growths of bone tissue along the edges of the joint.

The main symptoms of arthrosis include pain and stiffness in the joints, limited mobility, swelling and deformation of the joints. The pain usually increases with movement and decreases with rest.

Risk factors for the development of arthrosis are age over 40 years, female gender, genetic predisposition, excess body weight, joint injuries.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, chondroprotectors, and physiotherapy are used to treat arthrosis. If severe deformities develop, surgical treatment is indicated - joint replacement.

Arthrosis: causes, symptoms and treatment methods

Arthrosis is a chronic joint disease that can occur for various reasons, including endocrine disorders, excess weight, joint injuries, metabolic disorders and constant excessive physical activity. This disease affects both large and small joints, including the spine.

With arthrosis, the process involves the cartilage covering the articular surfaces of the articulating bones. It gradually collapses and becomes thinner, and the bone tissue and the inner surface of the joint capsule (synovium) are also affected. Sometimes spiky bone growths form.

The disease begins with the appearance of mild and intermittent pain in the joints, which disappears with moderate exercise. Then the pain occurs with prolonged exercise and gradually becomes constant. The joints swell, pain appears when touched, and their flexion and extension are often accompanied by a crunching sound. There may be a change in the shape of the joints and accumulation of fluid in large joints. With spondyloarthrosis, so-called radicular pain appears, caused by compression and injury to the nerve roots by bone growths; pain points may occur in the heart and abdomen.

Treatment for arthrosis depends on which joint is affected and the stage of the disease. Its purpose is to normalize metabolic processes in the body and eliminate overload in the area of ​​the affected joint. In some cases, corrective surgery is necessary.

The main methods of treating arthrosis are conservative methods, such as physiotherapy, massage, joint exercises, and the use of anti-inflammatory and painkillers. It is also important to control your weight and avoid overload.

In the case of an advanced stage of the disease, when conservative methods no longer help, surgery may be prescribed. This may include removing bone growths or replacing the affected joint with an artificial one.

It is important to remember that arthrosis is a chronic disease that requires constant monitoring and care. At the first signs of the disease, it is necessary to consult a doctor and begin treatment to prevent the progression of the disease and maintain the functionality of the joints.