Therapeutic measures in the treatment of knee arthrosis

Arthrosis is a deformity of the knee joint, which is accompanied by an inflammatory process with characteristic signs of redness and swelling of the lesion. The treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint is a long and complex procedure.

This disease is most often diagnosed in the elderly and professional athletes. The effectiveness of a speedy recovery depends on a properly prepared rehabilitation plan and compliance with all the prescriptions of the attending physician. Therefore, it is necessary to take a closer look at the degree of arthrosis and all the methods of treating the pathology.

Degrees of osteoarthritis of the knee joint

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

• First Degree.The onset of the disease is characterized by constant pain in the legs of a pulling nature. At the same time, the mobility of the joints is limited, and with a sharp movement there is a corresponding crunch. Increased physical activity increases the deformity of the joint. If you do not load the leg, the pain practically does not manifest itself. The X-ray shows the narrowing of the joint space, the destruction of the joint is not observed.
• second degree.Arthrosis at this stage of the development of the disease is characterized by the appearance of severe pain in the joint, which limits movement and the person can no longer walk long distances on his own. Erasure of the joint begins, a crunch in the knee is noted, and a gait with lameness occurs. The gap in the joint narrows to a minimum, so-called osteophyte tips form and inflammation can occur.
• third degree.The most serious complication of osteoarthritis. The person can no longer move independently and the pain in the knee does not stop even at rest. There are pronounced signs of arthrosis: complete deformity of the knee, absence of the joint space on the x-ray, restriction of joint mobility.
• fourth degreecharacterized by complete destruction of the knee joint. In this case, surgical intervention in the form of a joint prosthesis is recommended. Only a qualified medical specialist can determine the exact degree of arthrosis of the knee joint after a series of specially conducted examinations. If you have similar symptoms, you should go to the hospital immediately to see a rheumatologist.

Basic treatment methods

The treatment of knee arthrosis includes the use of a wide variety of techniques from drug therapy to alternative medicine. The process of rehabilitation and recovery of the knee can take a long time and requires the use of various methods, as well as compliance with all the manipulations prescribed by the doctor.

The course of treatment is determined by the attending physician, who determines the recovery plan depending on the degree of osteoarthritis and the age of the person. At the same time, maximum efforts are made to avoid surgical intervention and keep the knee intact.

Elimination of excessive stress on the joint

One of the reasons for the increased load on the knee joints is the presence of excess weight, which puts pressure on the legs and can gradually lead to the formation of deforming arthrosis. If this diagnosis occurs with excessive body weight, corrective measures should be taken to reduce the stress on the joint. To do this, you should follow a diet, play sports (use only permitted exercises, regularly conduct exercise therapy).

They also use a number of special bandages and installations to fix the knee joint and properly distribute the load on it. Such devices are orthopedic and specifically designed to correct and repair the knee joint. The time for using devices and bandages is determined or extended by the attending orthopedist, who makes decisions after analyzing the full clinical picture and studying x-rays.

The use of drug therapy

When treating arthrosis of the knee joint with drugs, three groups of drugs are used: anti-inflammatory, nonsteroidal analgesics, hormonal drugs, chondroprotective drugs. Positive results and progress in treatment are achieved with the right combination of components in the therapeutic complex.

1. Use of nonsteroidal analgesics.These drugs are prescribed as pain relievers that stop the inflammatory process. Medicines are taken orally or used for external application (ointments, gels, patches). The effect of exposure occurs on average 4-5 days after starting the medication. The general duration of treatment is no more than 2 weeks, since with further use there are side effects in the form of indigestion, nausea and ulcerative manifestations.
2. Hormonal drugs.If the course of the disease is complicated, doctors prescribe the use of hormonal drugs that quickly eliminate pain and speed up the recovery process. The duration of treatment with these drugs is short, since they have a large number of contraindications for continuous use.
3. Preparations with chondroprotective action.They contain natural sources of structural elements of connective tissue in cartilage and perform the function of restoring the knee joint. Medication can also help relieve painful symptoms. Drugs are presented in the form of tablets, ointments, gel. The main method of using chondroprotectors is the introduction of the drug into the synovial fluid.

The total duration of the treatment is about 4 months. As practice shows, the results give positive changes that are clearly visible on x-rays. Hyaluronic acid is known as the protector of synovial fluid. It has a practically identical composition that actively nourishes and restores the primary structure of the knee joint.

surgery

Surgery on the knee joint is performed only in extreme cases, when other methods of treatment do not give positive results. Depending on the severity of the disease, the following methods of surgical intervention are distinguished:

1. perform arthroscopy. The most gentle type of surgical intervention. This manipulation is carried out in the primary stages of pathology and the work of the knee joint is partially restored. The procedure is performed using a special endoscope, first punctures are made, and then the damaged areas of the joint are removed with the device. The operation is effective for younger people and quickly eliminates pain;
2. For more severe joint deformities, the use of an osteotomy is indicated. The essence of the procedure lies in a special bone fracture and its further correct fusion. In this case, the joint is restored, the pain disappears. And additionally use the necessary parts of artificial tissues;
3. Performing endoprosthetics. It's one of the most difficult types of surgeries. In this case, a complete replacement of the knee joint is carried out with a special implant that performs all the functions of restoring flexion and further movement of a person. Most patients note quite positive consequences, in which the level of physical activity increases significantly.

Treatment with physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is an effective treatment method in the initial stages of arthrosis development. She actively reduces
Pain, relieves muscle tension and partially restores the primary structure of the joint. There are the following types of physiological procedures:

• Perform analgesic magnetic therapy. This procedure performs the general functions of restoring and relieving pain in the body. The use of this method is effective in the first and second stages of the disease. The total duration of the treatment is 9-15 treatments lasting 30 minutes.
• The use of laser therapy as an anti-inflammatory effect. When applying this technique, the following types are used: treatment with infrared radiation, low-frequency UHF, centimeter wave therapy. Such methods have a beneficial effect on the restoration of the joint. Saturate connective tissue cells with nutrients that improve blood flow. It should be noted that the use of UHF is combined with the intra-articular administration of drugs, and centimeter wave therapy is effective in the initial stages of arthrosis. The average duration of the procedures is 10–20 times, and the duration is from 7 to 15 minutes.
• Physiological processes of intensive influence. Various methods are used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee joint. Some basic techniques should be considered in detail.
• ultrasonic waves. The most famous treatment for this disease. Significantly improves the processes of blood circulation, nutrition in the joint, restores cartilage tissue. It is recommended to use within 14 days. The use of electrophoresis. The use of electric currents in connection with the introduction of drugs. The advantage of this method is a significant restoration of the knee joint with the simultaneous absence of a strong drug load on the body. The number of procedures of one course is 10-12 times. The combination of several currents acting on the joint is the phenomenon of interference therapy. A special feature of the method is the stimulation of atrophied muscles and the restoration of blood circulation processes in the lymphatic system. With the development of the acute stage, it is prescribed twice a day for two weeks. Also, the use of alternating current of an impulsive character effectively affects the affected joint. This procedure is called Darsonvalization and it actively reduces pain while performing restorative functions in the knee. The full course of rehabilitation includes 10-15 procedures lasting about half an hour for 15 days. Take special therapeutic baths. They are an integral part of the procedure for therapeutic measures for arthrosis. Combinations of water with sage, hydrogen sulfide, radon, bishopite, medicinal mud are very effective. These procedures have a great analgesic effect and can be applied locally or generally. The duration of the session is 10-30 minutes. The average duration of treatment is 10-20 days.

Traditional medicine in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee joint

The process of complex treatment of the pathology can stop the further progression of the disease, but it is impossible to completely get rid of the disease! Therefore, it is very important to use all techniques aimed at maintaining a stable state and prolonging the established effect. One of the most effective methods are recipes of traditional medicine in the form of compresses, bandages, ointments and tinctures that have a beneficial effect on the lesion. The most effective means:

• Preparation of dandelion flowers.Used fresh, brewed in boiling water and alcohol-based tincture. It is recommended to eat 7-8 pieces of dandelions daily. Tincture is taken three times a day, 100 ml before meals. An alcoholic solution is applied to the affected joint daily for a month;
• horseradish compress.This vegetable effectively reduces pain symptoms and partially restores the normal functionality of the joint. The process of making a bandage is simple: grated horseradish is applied to gauze and applied to a sore spot overnight. The procedure must be repeated daily for about 30 days;
• use of aloe.The plant has natural anti-inflammatory, analgesic properties and is actively used in the treatment of arthrosis. You can make flower-based compresses and also use crushed leaves or apply them to the affected area. The duration of treatment with this remedy should be at least a month;
• Tincture based on cinquefoil.The preparation recipe is to use the herb together with alcohol and obtain a suitable solution for the prevention and treatment of osteoarthritis. The drug is taken 3-4 drops per day or used as a compress. Treatment is continued for a month;
• A mixture of mustard, sand and salt.All components of the composition should be thoroughly mixed, and then put on a baking sheet and warm up well. The hot mixture should be applied to the affected area and removed only after the compress has cooled. This method reduces pain and improves blood circulation in the joint. The procedure is not recommended in the acute course of the disease.

In the treatment of the disease, calendula, burdock and juniper are also used, as they have a beneficial effect on the restoration of the knee joint.

Non-traditional means of treating arthrosis

In the treatment of arthrosis, non-traditional medicine is used. The most popular methods in this branch:

1. Therapy with leeches is called hirudotherapy. This method is very efficient. Since insects stick to the joint at the points of biological action. At the same time, they secrete special enzymes that have healing properties, improve metabolic processes and increase blood flow to the joint. Timing and duration of treatment are prescribed by a specialist doctor;
2. The application of acupuncture by inserting needles into the active points of the joint. It also presents a number of effective methods of treating osteoarthritis. They use direct acupuncture, point massage and special moxibustion sticks. Manipulation is carried out only by a qualified specialist who prescribes the required number of sessions;
3. Treatment with hydrogen peroxide. The chemical compound is involved in all life processes of the body, so it is also used in arthrosis. The drug is diluted with water in a ratio of 1 cup to 3 drops of 3% H2O2 and drunk 2 hours after eating. You can also use peroxide-based compresses;
4. ingest gelatin. This component is a natural source of collagen, which is necessary for the strength of bones and joints. The use of gelatin also has a therapeutic effect on the course of arthrosis. The dosage per day is 10 grams. And the duration of treatment by this method should be at least 90 days. It is also good to use foods and dishes rich in gelatin (chicken, pork offal, gristle, aspic);
5. The use of stem cells. Innovative method for treating arthrosis. Its uniqueness lies in stem cells, which have the ability to regenerate and regenerate into new cellular systems. They are obtained 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 knee mobility.

Combination of massage and manual therapy

Massage is a prerequisite for the treatment of this pathology. It is performed by a qualified massage therapist or a trained patient. Before starting the procedure, it is recommended to warm up the muscles with exercise therapy exercises, and then perform manipulations. A good effect is added by using water procedures in conjunction with a massage. The first sessions should initially last no longer than 10 minutes and then gradually increase to 20 minutes.

After the massage, the patient should feel a slight relaxation and no pain. If they are present, you need to consult a doctor about the further continuation of the procedure. Manipulation helps well in the early stages of osteoarthritis.

Manual therapy is used in individual cases and is carried out by a specialist. For its implementation, the patient must have certain indications. The essence of the method lies in the gentle reduction of the joint and its extension. The muscles in this case are activated and the process of restoring joint mobility begins. Manipulation should be carried out 3-4 times a year.

Treatment, prevention of osteoarthritis with exercise therapy

Performing special exercises called physical therapy is an effective way to treat osteoarthritis. To achieve the desired effect, you should follow the rules of complex gymnastic exercises:

1. Exercises are performed only on the recommendation of the attending physician;
2. The training program should be spread out several times throughout the day;
3. Exclusion of heavy physical exertion;
4. During training, you need to take special breaks to relax the joint.
5. The combination of massage, therapeutic drugs and exercise therapy;
6. Exercises are performed with a calm course of the disease;
7. The ratio of simple muscle tension and motor activity should be considered. It is this technique that strengthens the joint;

It is worth remembering that a set of special exercise therapy exercises is prescribed purely individually and selected by a doctor specializing in this field.

Methodology of Doctor of Medical Sciences

This treatment method was developed by a famous scientist, doctor of medical sciences. The essence of therapy is based on healing the patient with the help of physiological procedures without the use of drugs.

After a thorough examination, an individual treatment regimen is prescribed. In this case, there is no additional load on the joint, but special simulators are used. As analgesics, the doctor suggests using ice and other cooling ingredients.

In parallel with the implementation of this therapy, swimming, bath procedures, special massages, a steam bath with subsequent cooling are also recommended.

In medical practice, many positive cases have shown themselves in the treatment of arthrosis, when joint mobility was restored and the patient was able to lead a normal life.

Methodology of a rheumatologist

The famous doctor has developed his own method of treating arthrosis. It is based on a combination of medicinal and mechanical treatment of the affected joint.

This method is carried out according to the following scheme:

• The use of nonsteroidal drugs;
• The use of chondroprotective drugs;
• External use of creams, ointments for anesthesia;
• apply compresses;
• introduction of injections into the joint;
• conducting manual therapy;
• Physiological Procedures;
• therapeutic physical culture;
• wearing special bandages, bandages, sticks;
• Diet.

The effectiveness of the technique is confirmed by statistical data. With osteoarthritis of the first degree, more than 95% of the patients have been cured by this method. The second stage of the disease was rehabilitated in 80% of patients.

Treatment of arthrosis with modern therapy methods

Modern methods of arthrosis therapy are actively combined with drugs and other treatment methods. The following types are used:

1. The phenomenon of kinesitherapy, in which a set of specially designed exercises is prescribed, aimed at achieving the most positive effect;
2. The introduction of ozone into the joint is called ozone therapy. It is a type of physiological procedures that appeared relatively recently and gained popularity due to its high efficiency;
3. The use of homeopathic remedies of different kinds.
4. Application and use of biologically active substances.

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

These treatment methods are widely used in the treatment of osteoarthritis and mostly lead to positive results. The combination of methods is selected by a qualified rheumatologist.

Treatment of arthrosis in sanatorium-resort conditions

An indication for the treatment of arthrosis in a special sanatorium complex is the development of degenerative-dystrophic arthrosis.

In the sanatorium, the patient is prescribed the following procedures:

1. mud packs and baths;
2. Physiological Therapy;
3. exercise therapy;
4. massage and manual therapy;
5. Modern treatment methods for osteoarthritis.

Treatment of a sanatorium-resort type is prohibited with such contraindications:

• Severe deformity of the joint;
• inflammatory process in the knee;
• deterioration in general condition;
• The last stage of the disease in the acute period.

Correct implementation of all prescribed procedures in the sanatorium and further improvement of the general condition, restoration of the joint, regaining its mobility for 6 months is a confirmation of the favorable treatment in these conditions. At the same time, general analyzes show a positive trend.

The average cost of osteoarthritis treatment and feedback on the effectiveness of therapy

The cost of complex treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint depends on the degree of the disease, the general condition of the joint, the stage of its deformation, the patient's age and the body's ability to recover.

It should be noted that the use of drugs with a chondroprotective effect is an expensive procedure, since the duration of their administration is quite long. In the treatment of pathology, a whole range of measures is prescribed, which also have a rather large pricing policy.

The last stages of arthrosis are characterized by complete deformity of the joint, which requires prosthetics. The prices for this operation are quite high. Therefore, the average cost of treatment is quite high, and it is best not to start the disease, but to treat it in the early stages of its onset!

Reviews of patients with arthrosis who have undergone complex treatment are pronounced. Most people say that osteoarthritis is best treated in the early stages of the disease, with full observance of all prescribed manipulations. At the same time, continuous preventive measures should be taken to prevent the development of the disease.

The third, fourth degree of the disease is practically not treated, and doctors recommend surgery. Depending on the degree of knee misalignment, various surgical interventions from reconstruction to complete replacement of the joint are performed. Postoperative phases and further periods of remission also recommend prophylaxis and new surgical interventions.

In conclusion, it is important to emphasize the important point of the article and say that arthrosis of the knee joint is a very serious serious disease that requires a lot of effort and time for partial recovery. Therefore, if you are prone to this disease, you must strictly comply with all preventive methods to prevent the progression of this pathology!