Deforming arthrosis of the knee joint (gonarthrosis) occurs in the context of degenerative-dystrophic damage to cartilage tissue (due to excessive stress on the joint, injuries, damage to the menisci, torn ligaments). The disease is more common among women.
Experts distinguish various stages of gonarthrosis:
- the first stage: there is systematic monotonous pain in the affected joint area, appearing mainly after loading, the deformity still does not occur;
- the second stage: symptoms of arthrosis of the knee joint increase, hyperemia occurs, bone growth appears, there may be tightness in the knee when moving and turning the leg;
- third stage: pronounced deformation of the joint, disturbed gait, permanent pain appears.
People often confuse the early stage of gonarthrosis with an inflammatory reaction to a drop or excessive tension in the joint, without turning to specialists for help. But if the treatment of deforming arthrosis of the knee joint is not started in time, the pathology can lead to a violation of the biomechanics of the remaining joints, intervertebral hernias, severe mobility limitations and even disabilities.
Traditional treatment of arthrosis of the knee
The treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint requires complex measures. In the acute phase, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used. They help to reduce the inflammatory response and relieve pain. Goonarthrosis continues with pronounced pain syndrome, and in the last stage of the disease the pain becomes unbearable, therefore, the elimination of unpleasant sensations with the aid of anti-inflammatory drugs improves the patient's well-being and improves his quality of life. .
To increase the effectiveness of the therapy, medications for the treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint are injected directly into the joint cavity. Chondroprotectors contribute to the restoration of cartilage tissue, improving cartilage nutrition. They should be taken in the early stage of gonarthrosis, when cartilage tissue is just beginning to break down. In the midst of an illness, these remedies are ineffective.
<2_img_rightxx>Hyaluronic acid injections have a good therapeutic effect. They help to interrupt the pathological process and prolong the youth of the joint structures. But the high cost does not allow the introduction of this method of treatment to the masses, as not every patient can afford such procedures.
Modern methods of treating arthrosis of the knee joint help to combat the pathological signs quickly and effectively and to restore physical activity. After the disappearance of the acute process, the use of physical therapy is allowed: phonophoresis with hydrocortisone, electrophoresis, UHF, laser therapy, magnetotherapy). Special therapeutic exercises (gymnastics), massage, relative rest of the affected limb, and intake of supportive vitamins can prevent the development of relapses in the future.
To delay the course of degenerative processes in the joint, the patient must be aware of excessive efforts, lifting weights, jumping from heights and remaining in the same position for a long time (standing or sitting). In the presence of obesity, it is advisable to get rid of the extra pounds as they create additional stress on the knees and can contribute to the progression of gonarthrosis. To relieve joint tension during treatment, your doctor may recommend the use of a cane.
Joint replacement for gonarthrosis
With the ineffectiveness of drug therapy, it is necessary to resort to more radical methods - the replacement of the affected joint by an endoprosthesis. Surgical treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint helps to give the patient back the joy of living without pain and without restrictions on physical activity.
These operations require a highly qualified physician, careful preparation and a long period of rehabilitation. But each year more and more high-quality, modern prostheses are produced, which take root quickly and cause no side reactions. And implant implantation methods are becoming less traumatic for patients.
Surgical treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint should only be performed in clinics with modern technical equipment. The endoprosthesis can be total, when the joint is completely replaced by an artificial prosthesis, and partial (only the destroyed joint structures can be replaced).
After the operation, rehabilitation measures are carried out to help the person get used to the prosthesis, adapt and learn to walk without help. At this stage, special development exercises and professional assistance from experts are of great importance.
gonarthrosis prevention
Traditional medicine to deform arthrosis of the knee joint
Traditional medicine recommends eating a decoction of beef bones or gelled meat for gonarthrosis. Aspic's gelatinous substance is believed to help restore destroyed joint tissue. The bones should be cooked until then (no water can be put into the pan) until the meat is easy to separate from them.
Our ancestors used natural honey to relieve inflammation, swelling and joint pain. With it, compresses and applications were made, which helped to combat pain and stiffness. A little vinegar, herbal infusions or alcohol can be added to honey.
But remember that alternative treatment for arthrosis of the knee joint should still take place under specialist supervision. It is better to combine it with drug therapy. Don't give up traditional medical care in favor of traditional medicine. Goonarthrosis is easily treatable at an early stage of development. If the disease starts, it can be difficult for patients to restore function to the affected joint without surgery.
Traditional medicine for gonarthrosis recommends the use of:
- clay compresses: blue or red clay, make a creamy mass, place a cotton cloth and wrap around the joint and wrap with a woolen handkerchief on top (keep for 2-3 hours);
- dandelion tincture: pour the unblown heads with vodka so that the liquid covers them, place them in a cool place for 2 weeks, then clean the painful knees with the resulting remedy overnight;
- lemon, celery and garlic infusion: 2-3 lemons, 2 garlic heads and a small chopped celery root, place in a jar (3 liters) and pour boiling water up to the neck, in the morning the infusion is ready (strain and use a glass 30 minutes before meals).
For the alternative treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint to be effective, the procedures must be systematic. Spa therapy has a beneficial effect on joint health. Rest by the sea, stay in specialized sanatoriums, where you can pamper your knees with curative mud baths, unique natural springs and aquatic procedures - all of which contribute to a quick recovery.