Arthrosis is one of the most common diseases in the world, accounting for approximately 80% of joint pathologies.Both men and women are affected.It mainly occurs in adulthood.In general, the probability of developing the disease increases from the age of 30.
During arthrosis, the articular cartilage changes, as a result of which the tissue structure is damaged and the inflammatory process begins.
What is arthrosis
Arthrosis is a joint disease that occurs due to metabolic disorders in the body.The joints are less flexible.Overweight people, retired people and athletes are most prone to arthrosis.
The disease can occur against the background of any injury or damage.In addition, the cause of arthrosis can be genetic characteristics or heredity.
Degrees of arthrosis
Arthrosis has three stages:
- The first has virtually no symptoms.The patient only occasionally feels discomfort during movement.However, pathological deformations already appear in the joints.
- In the second stage, the joints are destroyed.The pain will be pronounced, but tolerable.There is also a crunchy feeling in the joints.
- In the last stage, the damage occurs more deeply.The joint is severely deformed, tissues and ligaments are damaged, as a result of which the person cannot move in the usual way.
The symptoms may worsen periodically, so it is quite difficult to independently determine the stage of arthrosis and treatment.Therefore, it is best to consult a doctor at the first symptoms.
Symptoms of the disease
The main symptom that helps to identify the disease is joint pain during movement.At rest, the pain subsides.The symptoms are localized in the damaged areas.A characteristic sign of arthrosis is a screeching sound in the affected joint.
In the initial stage, pain is felt only when there is a heavy load or pressure in the affected area.It gets stronger over time, the patient has to move less and less and stay still more.
As you know, joints can crack even in a normal healthy state.However, the voice of arthrosis is specific: unlike the natural voice, it is "dry".As you progress, the joints crack more and more clearly.
During the development of arthrosis, the motor activity of the damaged joints decreases.When the disease reaches dangerous stages, the joints begin to deform irreversibly.
Treatment and prevention
It is best to do the treatment at the initial stage.The main goal of therapy is to eliminate the causes and stop the inflammatory process.Treatment should include a series of measures aimed at restoring the joints.
Among them:
- treatment with drugs that relieve inflammation and pain;
- performing physiotherapy procedures that relieve joint pain;
- spa treatment with mud bath and mineral water;
- doing physical therapy.
During the treatment of damaged joints, physical activity and excessive fatigue are not allowed.The joints should be at rest most of the time.You must also pay attention to nutrition and follow a certain diet.
In order to prevent arthrosis, you should follow simple preventive measures:
- avoid overloading and intense physical activity;
- eat correctly (the diet should contain all the necessary vitamins and microelements);
- avoid overeating.
Arthrosis is a chronic disease that can have serious consequences, so treatment is necessary at the initial stage.Adherence to preventive measures will help prevent the disease.