Treatment of knee osteoarthritis

Arthropathy is a deformity of the knee joint with an inflammatory process with characteristic signs of redness and swelling of the lesions. The treatment of knee osteoarthritis is a long and complex process.

The disease is most often diagnosed in older adults and professional athletes. The effectiveness of rapid recovery depends on a properly developed recovery plan and adherence to all prescriptions from the attending physician. Therefore, it is necessary to consider in more detail the extent of arthropathy and all methods of treating pathology.

Degree of arthropathy of the knee joint

The course of knee arthropathy is divided into four specific stages that characterize the severity of the disease.

• first level.The onset of the disease is characterized by persistent pain in the leg, with a pulling nature. At the same time, the mobility of the joints is limited, and with vigorous exercise, a corresponding tightening occurs. Increased physical activity increases joint deformity. If you don't load the leg, the pain doesn't actually manifest. Radiographs showed narrowing of the joint space and no joint destruction was observed.
• second degree.Arthropathy in the progressive stages of the disease is characterized by severe pain in the joints, which limits movement and the person can no longer travel long distances alone. The joints begin to disappear, the knee joints tighten, and a lame gait develops. The joint space is minimized, so-called osteophyte spikes form, and inflammation may begin.
• Three degrees.The most serious complication of arthropathy. The person can no longer move independently, and the pain in the knee does not stop even at rest. There are clear signs of arthropathy: total knee deformity, no joint space on X-ray, limited joint mobility.
• fourth degreeCharacterized by complete destruction of the knee joint. In this case, surgical procedures in the form of joint prostheses are recommended. The exact extent of the knee joint can only be determined by a qualified specialist after a series of specially conducted studies. If you experience similar symptoms, you should see a rheumatologist right away.

basic treatment

Treatment of knee osteoarthritis involves the use of a variety of techniques from medical therapy to alternative medicine. The rehabilitation and recovery process of the knee joint can take a long time, requiring the use of various methods and compliance with all operations prescribed by the doctor.

The treatment process is determined by the attending physician, who determines the rehabilitation plan according to the degree of joint disease and the age of the person. At the same time, do your best to avoid surgical intervention and keep the knee intact.

Eliminate excess pressure on joints

One of the reasons for the increased load on the knee joint is the presence of excess weight, which puts pressure on the legs and gradually leads to the formation of deformed joints. If this diagnosis occurs with excess body weight, corrective measures should be taken to reduce the load on the joint. To do this, you should diet, exercise (only use permitted exercise, exercise regularly).

They also use a number of special dressings and devices to immobilize the knee and properly distribute the load on it. This device is orthopaedic and specifically designed to correct and restore the knee joint. The time to use the device and bandages was specified or extended by the attending orthopaedic surgeon, who made the decision after analyzing the complete clinical picture and studying the X-ray images.

use of drug therapy

In the treatment of knee joint disease with drugs, three groups of drugs are used: anti-inflammatory drugs, non-steroidal analgesics, hormonal drugs, chondroprotective drugs. The correct combination of components in the therapeutic complex gives positive results and progress in treatment.

1. Use non-steroidal pain relievers.These drugs are prescribed as pain relievers that stop the inflammatory process. The drug is taken by mouth internally or used externally (ointment, gel, patch). The effects of exposure occurred on average 4-5 days after dosing was started. The usual course of treatment does not exceed 2 weeks, as further use can lead to side effects in the form of indigestion, nausea and ulcers.
2. Hormonal drugs.When the course of the disease is complicated, doctors will prescribe hormonal drugs, which can quickly eliminate pain and speed up the recovery process. The duration of treatment with these drugs is short-term because they have a large number of contraindications to continuous use.
3. Preparations for chondroprotective effects.They contain a natural source of connective tissue structural elements in cartilage and perform the function of restoring the knee joint. Medication can also help relieve pain symptoms. Medicines come in the form of tablets, ointments, and gels. The primary method of using chondroprotective agents is to introduce the drug into the joint fluid.

The total course of treatment lasts about 4 months. As practice has shown, the results produced positive changes that were clearly visible on radiographic images. Hyaluronic acid is known as a protectant for joint fluid. It has almost the same ingredients that actively nourish and restore the main structures of the knee joint.

Operation

Knee surgery is only performed in extreme cases, when other treatments have not produced positive results. Depending on the severity of the disease, the following surgical interventions can be distinguished:

1. Perform arthroscopy. The most sophisticated surgical intervention. This operation is performed in the primary stage of the pathology, and the work of the knee joint is partially restored. The procedure is performed using a special endoscope, where a puncture is first performed, followed by a device to remove the damaged area of the joint. The operation is effective for young people and relieves pain quickly;
2. Osteotomy is used for more severe joint deformities. The essence of the procedure lies in the specific fracture of the bone and its further correct fusion. In this case, the joint recovers and the pain goes away. and additionally uses necessary parts of artificial tissue;
3. Implementation of implanted prostheses. It is one of the most difficult types of surgery. In this case, the knee joint is completely replaced with a special implant that performs all the functions of restoring flexion and further movement. Most patients noted very positive outcomes, in which physical activity levels increased significantly.

Physiotherapy

Physical therapy is an effective treatment for the early stages of joint disease development. she actively reduces
Pain, relieve muscle tension and partially restore the main structures of the joint. There are the following physiological processes:

• Carry out analgesic magnetic therapy. The procedure performs the general functions of recovery and relief from body pain. The use of this method is effective in the first and second stages of the disease. The total course of treatment is 9-15 procedures lasting 30 minutes.
• Use laser therapy as an anti-inflammatory effect. When using this technique, the following types are used: infrared radiation therapy, low frequency UHF, centimeter wave therapy. This method favorably affects the recovery of the joint. Saturates connective tissue cells with nutrients and improves blood circulation. It is important to note that the use of UHF in combination with intra-articular administration, centimeter wave therapy is effective in the initial stages of arthropathy. The average operation time is 10-20 times, and the time is 7-15 minutes.
• Physiological processes are strongly affected. A variety of procedures are used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee. Several basic techniques should be considered in detail.
• Ultrasound. The best known treatment for this disease. Significantly improves blood circulation process, joint nutrition, restores cartilage tissue. Recommended use within 14 days. Use electrophoresis. The use of electrical current is combined with the introduction of drugs. The advantage of this method is a significant recovery of the knee joint without a strong drug load on the body. The number of operations for a course is 10-12. The combination of several electrical currents acting on the joint is the phenomenon of interference therapy. A distinctive feature of this method is the stimulation of atrophied muscles and the restoration of blood circulation processes in the lymphatic system. As the acute phase develops, it is prescribed twice a day for two weeks. The use of alternating current with a pulsed nature also has an effective effect on the affected joints. This process is called darsonvalization and actively reduces pain while performing knee joint restoration. The entire recovery process is 10-15 procedures lasting about half an hour for 15 days. Take a special therapeutic bath. They are part of the program of treatment measures for arthropathy. The combination of water with sage, hydrogen sulfide, radon, hectorite, healing mud is very effective. These procedures have great pain relief and can be used for topical or general use. Session duration is 10-30 minutes. The average course of treatment is 10-20 days.

Traditional Medicine for Knee Disease

The complex treatment process of the pathology can prevent the further development of the disease, but it is impossible to get rid of the disease completely! Therefore, it is important to use all techniques aimed at maintaining a steady state and prolonging the intended effect. One of the most effective methods is traditional medicine formulations in the form of dressings, dressings, ointments, tinctures that are beneficial to lesions. The most effective means:

• Preparation of dandelion flowers.To be used fresh, brew in boiling water and an alcohol tincture. It is recommended to eat 7-8 dandelions per day. The tincture is taken 3 times a day, 100ml before meals. Apply the alcohol solution to the affected joints daily for a month;
• Horseradish compress.This vegetable effectively relieves painful symptoms and partially restores the normal function of joints. The process of making the dressing is simple: apply the rubbed horseradish to gauze and leave it on the sore spot overnight. The procedure must be repeated daily for approximately 30 days;
• Use aloe vera.The plant has natural anti-inflammatory, analgesic properties and is actively used to treat joint diseases. You can make a flower-based compress, or use crushed leaves or apply them to the affected area. The duration of this therapy should last at least one month;
• A clover-based tincture.It is prepared by applying herbal medicines with alcohol and obtaining a suitable solution for the prevention and treatment of arthropathy. Take 3-4 drops of this medicine daily or as a compress. Treatment lasts one month;
• A mixture of mustard, sand and salt.All ingredients of the composition should be well mixed, then placed on a baking sheet and heated well. The hot mixture should be applied to the affected area and not removed until the compress has cooled. This method can effectively relieve pain and improve blood circulation in the joints. This procedure is not recommended in the acute course of the disease.

Calendula, burdock, juniper are also used in the treatment of diseases due to their beneficial effects on the recovery of the knee joint.

Non-traditional remedies for joint disease

In the treatment of arthropathy, non-traditional medicines are used. The most popular methods in the industry:

1. Leech therapy is called leech therapy. This method is very effective. Because of the biological impact points where insects attach to joints. At the same time, they secrete special enzymes with healing properties, improve metabolic processes, and increase blood circulation to the joints. The treatment time and duration are prescribed by the specialist;
2. Acupuncture is used by introducing needles into the active points of the joint. It also describes many effective procedures for treating arthropathy. They use direct acupuncture, acupressure and special moxibustion sticks. The operation may only be carried out by qualified specialists specified the required number of times;
3. Treated with hydrogen peroxide. This compound is involved in all life processes of the body, so it is also used in arthropathy. Dilute the medication in 1 cup to 3 drops of 3% H2O2 with water and drink 2 hours after eating. You can also use peroxide-based dressings;
4. Take gelatin. This ingredient is a natural source of collagen, which is necessary for bone and joint strength. The use of gelatin also has a therapeutic effect on the course of arthropathy. The daily dose is 10 grams. The duration of treatment with this method should be at least 90 days. It is also good to use foods and dishes rich in gelatin (chicken, pig offal, cartilage, aspic);
5. Use of stem cells. An innovative approach to the treatment of arthropathy. What makes it unique is stem cells, which have the ability to regenerate and regenerate into new cellular systems. They are taken from human bone marrow and grown in the laboratory for 2 months. The cells are then injected into the affected joint. This therapy partially replaces cartilage tissue and improves the mobility of the knee joint.

Combination of massage and manual therapy

Massage is a prerequisite for the treatment of this pathology. It is performed by qualified massage therapists or trained patients. It is recommended that the muscles be warmed up with exercise therapy exercises before starting the operation. The use of water in conjunction with the massage program adds to the good results. Initially, the first session should not exceed 10 minutes, then gradually increase to 20 minutes.

After the massage, the patient should feel slightly relaxed and painless. If they are present, then you will need to consult your doctor regarding further continuation of the procedure. Manipulation is helpful in the early stages of arthropathy.

Manual therapy is used in individual cases and is carried out by specialized physicians. For its implementation, patients must have certain indications. The essence of this method is the soft reduction of the joint and its extension. In this case, the muscles are activated and the process of restoring joint mobility begins. It should be done 3-4 times throughout the year.

Treatment and prevention of joint diseases through exercise therapy

Doing special exercises called physical therapy is an effective way to treat joint disease. To achieve the desired results, you should follow the rules of complex gymnastics exercises:

1. Exercise only on the advice of the attending physician;
2. The exercise regimen should be several times throughout the day;
3. Exclude intense physical exertion;
4. During training, special rest is required to relax the joints;
5. a combination of massage, therapeutic drugs and exercise therapy;
6. exercise during the calming course of the disease;
7. The ratio of pure muscle tone to motor activity should be observed. It is this technique that will strengthen the joints;

It is worth recalling that a specific set of kinesiotherapy exercises are prescribed purely individually and are chosen by physician specialists in the field.

Methodology for the Doctor of Medicine

This treatment was developed by a renowned scientist, MD. The essence of therapy is to cure the patient with the help of physiological procedures without the use of drugs.

After a thorough examination, a separate treatment plan was developed. In this case, there is no additional load on the joints, but a special simulator is used. As analgesics, doctors recommend ice and other cooling ingredients.

Along with this therapy, swimming, bathing procedures, special massages, steam rooms and subsequent cooling are also recommended.

In medical practice, the treatment of arthropathy has shown many positive cases, and when joint mobility is restored, the patient can lead a normal life.

Methodology for Rheumatologists

The famous doctor developed his own method of treating arthropathy. It is based on a combination of medical, mechanical treatments of the affected joints.

The method proceeds according to the following scheme:

• use of non-steroidal drugs;
• use of chondroprotective drugs;
• topical cream, anesthetic ointment;
• apply compression;
• introducing injections into joints;
• perform manual therapy;
• physiological program;
• therapeutic physical exercise;
• Wear special bandages, bandages, canes;
• diet.

The effectiveness of this technique is confirmed by statistics. For first-degree arthropathy, more than 95% of patients are cured by this method. 80% of patients recover in the second stage of the disease.

Treating Arthropathy with Modern Treatments

Modern arthropathy treatments are actively combined with drugs and other treatments. Use the following types:

1. The phenomenon of kinesitherapy, in which a set of specially designed exercises is prescribed to obtain the most positive effect;
2. The introduction of ozone into the joints is called ozone therapy. It is a relatively new physiological procedure that is popular for its high efficiency;
3. Homeopathic remedies are used in a variety of properties.
4. Application and use of biologically active substances.

These medicines should only be taken as directed by your doctor.

These treatments are often used to treat arthropathy and in most cases have positive results. The combination of methods was selected by a qualified rheumatologist.

Treating Arthropathy in Nursing Home Conditions

One indication for the treatment of arthropathy in special nursing homes is the development of degenerative dystrophic arthropathy.

In nursing homes, patients are prescribed the following procedures:

1. mud wraps and baths;
2. physiotherapy;
3. exercise therapy;
4. massage and manual therapy;
5. Modern methods of treating arthropathy.

Treatment of the health resort type with the following contraindications is prohibited:

• severe deformity of the joint;
• Inflammatory processes in the knee;
• deterioration in overall condition;
• The final stage of acute disease.

Correct execution of all prescribed procedures in the nursing home and further improvement of the general condition, restoration of the joints, restoration of their mobility for 6 months is a confirmation of a favorable treatment in these conditions. Meanwhile, the overall analysis shows a positive trend.

Average cost of joint disease treatment and feedback on treatment effect

The cost of comprehensive treatment of knee arthropathy depends on the extent of the disease, the general condition of the joint, the stage of deformation, the age of the patient and the ability of the body to recover.

It should be noted that the use of chondroprotective drugs is an expensive procedure due to their long administration period. In terms of pathological treatment, a series of measures are prescribed, among which there is also a considerable pricing policy.

The final stage of arthropathy is characterized by complete deformity of the joint, requiring a prosthesis. The price of this surgery is quite high. Therefore, the average treatment cost is quite high, and it is better not to start the disease, but to treat it at an early stage!

Patients with arthropathy and patients who have undergone complex therapy are reviewed. Most people say that arthropathy is best treated in the early stages of the disease with full compliance with all prescribed procedures. At the same time, continuous preventive measures should be taken to prevent the development of the disease.

The third or fourth degree of the disease is hardly treated, and the doctor recommends surgery. Depending on the degree of knee deformity, various surgical procedures are performed from reconstruction to complete joint replacement. Prophylaxis and new surgical interventions are also recommended for the postoperative period and time to further remission.

Finally, it is worth underlining the main point of the article, saying that knee arthropathy is a very serious serious disease that requires a lot of effort and time to recover partially. Therefore, if you have a crush on this disease, you must strictly follow all preventive measures to prevent the development of this disease!