Arthropathy is a chronic joint disease that manifests itself in adulthood.Characteristic symptoms of the disease are cartilage destruction and changes in bone structure.Most often, people over the age of forty are susceptible to various types of joint disease, but nowadays it is increasingly found in the younger generation.
disease cause
The main cause of arthropathy is age-related changes.Over time, bones and ligaments weaken, and the supply of vitamins and trace elements decreases, all of which can have a negative impact on the entire body.According to doctors, symptoms of joint disease appear earlier and earlier every year, which is related to poor environment, unbalanced diet, and bad living habits.Other factors, conditionally divided into two groups (primary and secondary), can also lead to arthropathy.These include:
- Excess weight puts stress on the joints, leading to joint disease and its rapid progression.
- Harsh working conditions can put stress on joints.Miners, metallurgists, masons and others were at risk.
- Endocrine system dysfunction.
- Repetitive joint injuries.
- Genetic predisposition.
Common causes of the secondary type include injury, autoimmune disease, non-clotting of the blood, inflammatory processes within the joints, hormonal imbalances, compromised blood supply, hypothermia, etc.Osteoarthritis can be promoted by constant stress on the hands, participation in professional sports, arthritis, and congenital disorders of the joint structure.
disease symptoms
The development of arthrosis occurs gradually.At first, there was no sign that it was present in the body.Creaking joints are the first symptom, so damage is worth paying attention to.Pain syndromes are absent or present in subtle forms with no clear localization.Gradually, stiffness develops in the joints, and the nature of the pain becomes more pronounced and severe.Most often, symptoms of this disease appear after a long period of rest or heavy physical work.
Symptoms of arthritis are morning stiffness, which disappears with light exercise.Gradually, this condition was supplemented by nighttime pain and joint "weather" reactions.Crunching sounds are often heard and movement is limited and painful.Patients often complain of uncomfortable sensations in the back and spine; they have difficulty finding a comfortable position while sleeping because movement is accompanied by cramping and pain.Acute attacks are replaced by periods of relief, but then symptoms return.
Type and extent of disease
Doctors divide joint disease into four levels.Level 1 risk is no pain or mild pain.Even with medical tests, the disease is not always diagnosed.Palpation of the area gives good results; in this case, an experienced attending physician will detect slight changes in the area of the damaged joint.This stage is characterized by a satisfactory condition of the patient; any painful symptoms are attributed to weather conditions or fatigue.
The second degree presents with obvious symptoms.The pain syndrome becomes more severe but still tolerable.At this stage, the joints begin to be destroyed and osteophytes appear.Now, chewing and general discomfort remain with the patient.At this stage, it is important to promptly recognize and start treating arthropathy with special medications.
In third-grade arthropathy, the cartilage becomes significantly thinner, extensive lesions appear, and tissue nutrition is destroyed.Multiple osteophytes can be seen with the naked eye, and severe deformation can be seen.
Fourth degree arthropathy is characterized by severe changes and deformations.No joint space.
Diagnostic Measures and Treatment
It is impossible to treat arthropathy without making a diagnosis.Rheumatologists are involved.
The first phase involves gathering patient information.Experts will ask about the time of first symptoms, the nature and location of the pain, and identify relevant factors.The following diagnostic steps before treating arthropathy include:
- X-rays are the primary diagnostic method.
- The joint is punctured to determine the extent of the change.
- Biopsy - To determine the condition of the joint at the time of examination.
Blood tests and some additional tests will also be needed.
The necessary treatment for arthrosis is selected based on the information received and the results of laboratory tests.Unfortunately, defeating the Knuckles in the final stages is nearly impossible.But regular drug treatment and prevention will help patients improve their quality of life.
In other cases, treatment of arthropathy consists of a series of measures and depends on the extent of the disease.Possible treatments:
- Pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, recovery shots and medications.
- Health Resort Program.
- Massage and physical therapy.
- Electrophoresis, etc.
In addition to the basic treatment options for joint disease, dietary modification, weight loss, and reduction in physical activity are recommended.
In some cases, folk remedies can be used to treat joint diseases, but only as prescribed by a specialist.At home, during treatment you can use ointments, gels, herbs prescribed by your doctor.In severe cases, surgical methods may be used to treat arthrosis.Depending on the stage of the disease, the damaged areas are replaced with analogues.This helps restore mobility and relieve pain.
Precautions
The prevention of any disease is easier than its cure.Following simple rules and regular check-ups will help reduce your chances of developing various types of joint disease.
It is recommended to avoid excessive exercise, but do not forget about preventive exercise.It is best to choose moderate exercise for exercise.Walking, swimming and jogging are ideal.It's worth giving up bad habits and living a healthy lifestyle.If you are overweight, modify your diet and introduce foods rich in vitamins and minerals into your diet.If you have a problem with your endocrine system, don't ignore treatment and see an endocrinologist.