Therapeutic measures in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis

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. Treatment of osteoarthritis 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 quick recovery depends on a correctly defined recovery plan and compliance with all the prescriptions of the attending physician. Therefore, it is necessary to consider in more detail the degree of arthrosis and all methods of treating pathology.

The degree of arthrosis of the knee joint

The course of arthrosis of the knee joint is divided into four specific stages, which characterize the severity of the disease.

• First degree.The onset of the disease is marked by persistent pain in the legs that is attractive in nature. At the same time, joint mobility is limited and, with sharp movements, a corresponding crisis occurs. Increased physical activity increases joint deformity. If you do not load the leg, then the pain is practically not real. X-ray shows narrowing of the joint space, destruction of the joint is not observed.
• second degree.Arthrosis at the advanced stage of the disease is characterized by the occurrence of severe pain in the joints, which limits movement, and the person can no longer travel long distances on his own. Joint effacement begins, dryness in the knees is observed and gait with a limp appears. The gap in the joint shrinks to a minimum, the formation of so-called osteophyte spikes occurs, and inflammation may begin.
• third degree.The most severe complication of arthrosis. The person can no longer move freely, and the pain in the knee does not stop even at rest. There are clear signs of arthrosis: complete deformity of the knee, absence of joint space on X-rays, limitation of joint mobility.
• year fourcharacterized by complete destruction of the knee joint. In this case, a surgical operation in the form of a joint prosthesis is recommended. Only a qualified specialist can determine the exact level of arthrosis of the knee joint after a series of specially conducted studies. If you experience the same symptoms, you should immediately go to the hospital to see a rheumatologist.

Basic treatment methods

Treatment of knee osteoarthritis includes the use of a variety of techniques from medical therapy to alternative medicine. The process of recovery and rehabilitation of the knee can take a long time and requires the use of various methods and also compliance with all the manipulations prescribed by the doctor.

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

Eliminates excess pressure on the joints

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

They also use some special bandages and fittings to fix the knee joint and distribute the load correctly on it. Such devices are orthopedic and designed specifically to correct and restore the knee joint. The time for the use of devices and bandages is set or extended by the attending orthopedic doctor, who makes a decision after analyzing the full clinical picture and studying the x-ray image.

Use of drug therapy

In the treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint with drugs, three groups of drugs are used: anti-inflammatory, non-steroidal analgesics, hormonal drugs, chondoprotective drugs. Positive results and progress in treatment are provided by the correct combination of components in the therapeutic complex.

1. Use of non-steroidal analgesics.These drugs are prescribed as pain relievers that stop the inflammatory process. The medicine is taken orally inside or used for external use (ointment, gel, patch). The exposure effect occurs on average 4-5 days after the start of the drug. The general course of treatment is no more than 2 weeks, because further use causes the development of side effects in the form of indigestion, nausea, and ulcerative manifestations.
2. Hormonal drugs.When the course of the disease is complicated, doctors prescribe the use of hormonal drugs that quickly relieve 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 for continuous use.
3. Preparation of chondoprotective action.They contain a natural source of structural elements of connective tissue in cartilage and perform the function of restoring the knee joint. The use of medications also helps relieve painful symptoms. Medicines are presented in the form of tablets, ointments, gels. The main method of using chondoprotectors is the introduction of the drug into the joint fluid.

The total treatment period lasts about 4 months. As practice shows, the result gives positive changes, which are clearly visible on radiographic images. Hyaluronic acid is called as a fluid protector in the joints. It has almost the same composition, which actively nourishes and restores the main structure of the knee joint.

Surgery

Surgery on the knee joint is carried out 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 subtle way of surgical intervention. This manipulation is carried out at the main stage of the pathology, and the work of the knee joint is partially restored. The procedure is carried out using a special endoscope, a puncture is first made, and then the damaged joint area is removed with the apparatus. This operation is effective for younger people and quickly relieves pain;
2. The use of osteotomy is indicated for more severe joint deformities. The essence of the procedure lies in special fractures and their correct combination. In this case, the joint is restored, the pain disappears. And also use the necessary artificial tissue parts;
3. Endoprosthetic implementation. It is one of the most difficult types of surgery. In this case, a complete replacement of the knee joint with a special implant takes place, which performs all the functions of restoring flexion and further movement of a person. Most patients note quite positive results, where the level of physical activity increases significantly.

Treatment with physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is an effective treatment method in the early stages of the development of arthrosis. He actively reduces
pain, relieves muscle tension and partially restores the main structure of the joint. There are the following types of physiological procedures:

• Perform analgesic magnetotherapy. This procedure performs the general function 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 treatment period is 9-15 procedures, lasting 30 minutes.
• The use of laser therapy as an anti-inflammatory action. When using this technique, the following types are used: treatment with infrared radiation, low frequency UHF, centimeter wave therapy. Such a method has a good effect on joint recovery. Saturate connective tissue cells with nutrition, improve blood circulation. It should be noted that the use of UHF is combined with intra-articular administration of drugs, and centimeter wave therapy is effective in the early stages of arthrosis. The average duration of the procedure is 10-20 times, and the duration is from 7 to 15 minutes.
• Physiological procedures of intensive influence. Various procedures are used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee joint. Some basic techniques need to be considered in detail.
• ultrasonic waves. The most famous treatment for this disease. Significantly improves the process of blood circulation, nutrition in the joints, restores cartilage tissue. It is recommended to use within 14 days. Use of electrophoresis. The use of electric current in conjunction with the introduction of drugs. The advantage of this method is the significant recovery of the knee joint, while the absence of a strong drug load on the body. The number of procedures in one course is 10-12 times. The combination of several currents acting on the joint is a phenomenon of interference therapy. A distinctive feature of this method is the stimulation of muscle atrophy and the restoration of the blood circulation process in the lymphatic system. With the development of the acute stage, it is prescribed twice a day for two weeks. The use of alternating current that is impulsive also has an effective effect on the affected joints. This procedure is called darsonvalization and actively reduces pain while performing rehabilitation functions in the knee. A full recovery course is 10-15 procedures lasting about half an hour for 15 days. Special therapeutic bath. They are part of the procedure for the therapeutic measures of arthrosis. The combination of water with sage, hydrogen sulfide, radon, bischofite, therapeutic mud is very effective. This procedure has a great analgesic effect and can be used in local or general use. Session duration is 10-30 minutes. The average course of treatment is 10-20 days.

Traditional medicine in the treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint

The complex treatment process of the pathology can stop the further development 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 condition and prolonging the established effect. One of the most effective ways is traditional medicine recipes in the form of compresses, bandages, ointments, tinctures that have a good effect on lesions. The most effective way:

• Preparation of dandelion flowers.Used fresh, brewed in boiling water and alcohol-based tinctures. It is recommended to eat 7-8 pieces of dandelion per day. Colored taken three times a day, 100 ml before meals. An alcohol-based solution is applied to the affected joint every day for a month;
• Compressed horseradish.This vegetable effectively reduces the symptoms of pain and partially restores the normal function of the joints. The process of making a bandage is simple: rubbed horseradish is applied to gauze and applied to the sore spot overnight. The procedure must be repeated every day for about 30 days;
• Use of aloe.This plant has anti-inflammatory, natural analgesic properties and is actively used in the treatment of arthrosis. You can make a flower-based compress and also use crushed leaves or apply on the affected area. The duration of treatment with this drug should last at least a month;
• Tinted based on cinquefoil.The recipe for the preparation is to use herbs together with alcohol and get a suitable solution for the prevention and treatment of arthrosis. This medicine is taken 3-4 drops daily or used as a compress. Treatment continues for a month;
• A mixture of mustard, sand and salt.All components of the composition should be mixed thoroughly, and then put on a baking sheet and heat well. The hot mixture should be applied to the affected area and not removed until the compress cools down. This method is effective in relieving pain, improving blood circulation in the joints. This procedure is not recommended during the acute course of the disease.

In the treatment of diseases, calendula, burdock, juniper are also used, because they have a good effect on the recovery of knee joints.

Non-traditional medicine for the treatment of arthrosis

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

1. Therapy with leeches is called hirudotherapy. This method is very effective. Because the insect attaches to the point of biological impact on the joint. At the same time, they secrete special enzymes that have healing properties, improve metabolic processes, and improve blood circulation in the joints. The time and duration of treatment is determined by a special doctor;
2. The use of acupuncture by inserting needles into the active points of the joints. It also presents some effective procedures in the treatment of arthrosis. They use direct acupuncture, point massage and special moxibustion sticks. Manipulation is carried out only by a qualified specialist who determines the required number of sessions;
3. Treatment with hydrogen peroxide. Chemical compounds are involved in all life processes of the body, so they are also used for arthrosis. This medicine is diluted with water in a ratio of 1 cup to 3 drops of 3% H2O2 and drunk 2 hours after a meal. You can also use a peroxide-based compress;
4. Take 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 daily dose is 10 grams. And the treatment period with this method should be at least 90 days. It is also good to use foods and dishes rich in gelatin (chicken, pork, cartilage, aspic);
5. Use of stem cells. Innovative methods of arthrosis treatment. Its uniqueness lies in stem cells, which have the ability to regenerate and regenerate into new cell systems. It is obtained from human bone marrow and grown in a laboratory for 2 months. The cells are then injected into the affected joint. This therapy replaces part of the cartilage tissue and improves knee mobility.

A combination of massage and manual therapy

Massage is a prerequisite for the treatment of this pathology. It is carried out by a certified massage therapist or a trained patient. It is recommended that before starting the procedure, warm up the muscles with exercise therapy exercises and then perform manipulations. A good effect is added to the use of water procedures along with massage. Initially, the first session should last no more than 10 minutes, and then gradually increase to 20 minutes.

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

Manual therapy is used in individual cases and is carried out by a special doctor. For its implementation, the patient must have certain symptoms. 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 done 3-4 times throughout the year.

Treatment, prevention of arthrosis with exercise therapy

Performing special exercises called physical therapy is an effective method of treating arthrosis. To get the desired effect, you should follow the rules of complex gymnastics exercises:

1. Training is done only on the recommendation of the attending physician;
2. The exercise regimen should be several times throughout the day;
3. Exclusion of strong physical exertion;
4. During training, you need to take special breaks to rest the joints;
5. A combination of massage, therapeutic drugs and exercise therapy;
6. Training is done with a quiet course of the disease;
7. The ratio of simple muscle tension and motor activity should be observed. This technique will strengthen the joints;

Keep in mind that a set of special exercise therapy exercises is prescribed individually and selected by a doctor in this field.

Methodology Doctor of Medical Sciences

This treatment method was developed by a famous scientist, a doctor of medical science. 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 joints, but a special simulator is used. As an analgesic, doctors suggest the use of ice and other cooling agents.

In parallel with carrying out this therapy, swimming, bathing procedures, special massages, steam rooms with subsequent cooling are also recommended.

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

Methodology of rheumatologists

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

This method is carried out according to the following scheme:

• Use of non-steroidal drugs;
• Use of chondoprotective drugs;
• External use of anesthetic creams, ointments;
• Apply compresses;
• The introduction of injections into the joints;
• Carry out manual therapy;
• Physiological procedures;
• Therapeutic physical culture;
• Wearing special bandages, bandages, crutches;
• Dieting.

The effectiveness of this technique is confirmed by statistical data. With the first stage of arthrosis, more than 95% of patients were cured by this method. The second stage of the disease was restored in 80% of patients.

Treatment of arthrosis using modern therapeutic 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, where a set of specially designed exercises is prescribed, which aims to obtain the most positive effect;
2. The introduction of ozone into the joints is called ozone therapy. It is a type of physiological procedure that appeared relatively recently and has gained popularity due to their high efficiency;
3. The use of homeopathic medicines of various properties.
4. The use and application of biologically active substances.

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

This method of treatment is quite often used in the treatment of arthrosis and for the most part gives positive results. The combination of methods is selected by a qualified rheumatologist.

Treatment of arthrosis in a sanatorium-resort setting

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

In the sanatorium, patients are prescribed the following procedures:

1. Mud wraps and baths;
2. Physiological therapy;
3. exercise therapy;
4. Massage and manual therapy;
5. Modern methods of treatment of arthrosis.

Sanatorium-resort type treatment is prohibited with such contraindications:

• Severe deformity of the joints;
• Inflammatory process in the knee;
• Deterioration of the general condition;
• The last stage of the disease in the acute phase.

The correct implementation of all the prescribed procedures in the sanatorium and the further improvement of the general condition, the restoration of the joint, the resumption of its mobility for 6 months are confirmation of favorable treatment in this condition. At the same time, the general analysis shows a positive trend.

The average cost of arthrosis 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 degree of its deformation, the age of the patient and the ability of the body to recover.

It should be noted that the use of chondoprotective action drugs is an expensive procedure, because the terms of administration are quite long. In the treatment of pathology, various measures are prescribed, which also have a relatively large price base.

The last stage of arthrosis is characterized by complete deformation of the joint, which requires prosthetics. The price for this operation is quite high. Therefore, the average cost of treatment is quite high and it is better not to start the disease, but to treat it in the early stages of its occurrence!

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

The third, fourth stage of this disease can be said to be untreated, and doctors recommend surgery. Depending on the degree of knee deformity, various surgical operations are performed from reconstruction to complete replacement of the joint. The postoperative period and further remission time also recommend prophylaxis and new surgical interventions.

Finally, it is worth emphasizing the important points of the article and saying 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 adhere to all preventive methods to prevent the development of this pathology!