Therapeutic measures in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis 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 time-consuming and complex procedure.

This disease is most often diagnosed in the elderly and professional athletes. The effectiveness of a quick recovery depends on a properly established rehabilitation plan and compliance with all the instructions of the attending physician. Therefore, it is necessary to consider in more detail the degree of arthrosis and all methods of treatment of the pathology.

Osteoarthritis of the knee joint

The course of osteoarthritis 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 constant pain in the legs of a pulling nature. At the same time, the mobility of the joints is limited, and with a sudden movement, a corresponding crushing occurs. Increased physical activity increases joint deformity. If you don't carry your leg, the pain practically doesn't manifest. X-ray shows narrowing of the joint space, joint destruction is not observed.
• High school.Osteoarthritis at this stage of the disease's development is characterized by the occurrence of intense pain in the joint, which limits movement, and the person can no longer walk long distances alone. Effacement of the joint begins, a knee crisis is noted, and a limping gait appears. The gap in the joint shrinks to a minimum, so-called osteophyte spikes form, and inflammation can begin.
• Third degree.The most serious complication of osteoarthritis. The person can no longer move independently and the knee pain does not stop even at rest. There are pronounced signs of arthrosis: complete knee deformity, absence of joint space on X-ray, limitation of joint mobility.
• fourth degreecharacterized by the 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 degree of osteoarthritis of the knee joint after a series of specially conducted studies. If you have similar symptoms, you should immediately go to the hospital to see a rheumatologist.

Basic treatment methods

Treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee includes the use of a wide variety of techniques, from medical therapy to alternative medicine. The knee rehabilitation and recovery process can take a lot of time and requires the use of various methods and also compliance with all 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, the age of the person. At the same time, maximum efforts are made to avoid surgical intervention and keep the knee intact.

Removing excess 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 excess body weight, corrective measures must be taken to reduce the load on the joint. To do this, you must follow a diet, play sports (use only permitted exercises, exercise regularly, exercise therapy).

They also use various dressings and special installations to fix the knee joint and properly distribute the load on it. These devices are orthopedic and are specifically designed to correct and restore the knee joint. The time of use of the devices and bandages is indicated or extended by the assistant orthopedic doctor, who makes the decisions after analyzing the complete clinical picture and studying the radiographic images.

The use of drug therapy

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

1. Use of non-steroidal analgesics.These drugs are prescribed as pain relievers that stop the inflammatory process. Medications are taken orally inside or used for external use (ointments, gels, patches). The effect of exposure occurs on average 4-5 days after starting the medication. The general course of treatment is not more than 2 weeks, as 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 hormone-type drugs that quickly eliminate pain and speed up the recovery process. The duration of treatment with these drugs is short-term, as they have a large number of contraindications for continued use.
3. Drugs of codoprotective action.They contain natural sources of connective tissue structural elements in cartilage and play the role of restoring the knee joint. The use of medication also helps to relieve painful symptoms. Medicines are presented in the form of tablets, ointments, gel. The main method of using condoprotectants is the introduction of the drug into the joint fluid.

The total duration of treatment lasts about 4 months. As practice shows, the results give positive changes, which are clearly visible on the radiographic images. Hyaluronic acid is called a protector of fluid in the joint. It has a virtually identical composition, which 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 treatment methods do not give positive results. Depending on the severity of the disease, the following methods of surgical intervention are distinguished:

1. Performing arthroscopy. The most delicate form of surgical intervention. Such manipulation is carried out in the early stages of the pathology, and the work of the knee joint is partially restored. The procedure is carried out using a special endoscope, punctures are made first, 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. The use of an osteotomy is indicated for more severe joint deformities. The essence of the procedure lies in a special fracture of the bone and its subsequent correct fusion. In this case, the joint is restored, the pain disappears. And also use the necessary parts of artificial fabrics;
3. Implantation of endoprostheses. 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 a person's additional flexion and movement. Most patients observe quite positive consequences, in which the level of physical activity increases markedly.

Physiotherapy treatment

Physiotherapy is an effective method of treatment in the early stage of osteoarthritis development. It actively reduces
pain, relieves muscle tension and partially restores the primary structure of the joint. There are the following types of physiological procedures:

• Performing analgesic magnetotherapy. This procedure performs the general functions of restoring and relieving pain in the body. The use of this method is effective in the first, second stage of the disease. The total duration of treatment is 9 to 15 procedures, lasting 30 minutes.
• The use of laser therapy as an anti-inflammatory action. When using this technique, the following types are used: infrared radiation treatment, low-frequency UHF, centimeter wave therapy. Such methods favorably affect joint restoration. Saturate connective tissue cells with nutrition, improve blood circulation. It is noteworthy that the use of UHF is associated with intra-articular administration of drugs, with centimeter wave therapy being effective in the early stages of arthrosis. The average duration of the procedures is 10 to 20 times and the duration is 7 to 15 minutes.
• Physiological procedures of intensive influence. A wide variety of procedures are used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee joint. Several basic techniques must be considered in detail.
• ultrasonic waves. The best known treatment for this disease. Significantly improves the processes of blood circulation, nutrition in the joint, restores cartilaginous tissue. Use within 14 days is recommended. The use of electrophoresis. The use of electrical currents in conjunction with the introduction of drugs. The advantage of this method is a significant restoration of the knee joint, while the absence of a strong load of drugs in the body. The number of procedures in one course is 10-12 times. The combination of several currents acting on the joint is the phenomenon of interference therapy. A distinctive 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. The use of alternating current of an impulsive nature also has an effective effect on the affected joint. This procedure is called darsonvalization and it actively reduces pain by performing restorative functions on the knee. The full course of rehabilitation is 10 to 15 procedures lasting about half an hour for 15 days. Take special therapeutic baths. They are an integral part of the procedures for therapeutic measures of arthrosis. Combinations of water with sage, hydrogen sulfide, radon, bischofite, therapeutic mud are very effective. These procedures have a great analgesic effect and can be applied in local or general use. Session duration is 10 to 30 minutes. The average course of treatment is 10 to 20 days.

Traditional medicine in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee joint

The complex treatment process of the pathology can prevent the 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 steady state and prolonging the established effect. One of the most effective ways is traditional medicine recipes in the form of compresses, dressings, ointments, tinctures that have a beneficial effect on the lesion. The most effective way:

• Preparation of dandelion flowers.Used fresh, brewed in boiling water and alcohol-based tincture. It is recommended to eat 7-8 pieces of dandelion daily. The tincture is taken three times a day, 100 ml before eating. An alcohol-based solution is applied to the affected joint daily for a month;
• Horseradish compress.This vegetable effectively reduces pain symptoms and partially restores normal joint functionality. The process of making a bandage is simple: rubbed 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 and analgesic properties and is actively used in the treatment of osteoarthritis. You can make compresses based on flowers and also use crushed leaves or apply them to the affected area. The duration of treatment with this remedy should last at least one month;
• Cinquefoil-based dye.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 a day or used as compresses. Treatment is continued for one month;
• A mixture of mustard, sand and salt.All components of the composition must be mixed well, and then placed on a baking sheet and heated well. The warm mixture should be applied to the affected area and not removed until the compress has cooled. This method is effective in relieving pain by improving blood circulation in the joint. The procedure is not recommended during the acute course of the disease.

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

Non-traditional remedies for the treatment of osteoarthritis

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

1. Therapy with leeches is called hirudotherapy. This method is very efficient. Since the insects are attached to the biological impact points in the joint. At the same time, they secrete special enzymes that have healing properties, improve metabolic processes and increase blood circulation in the joint. The time and duration of treatment are prescribed by a special doctor;
2. The use of acupuncture by introducing needles into the active points of the joint. It also presents a series of effective procedures in the treatment of arthrosis. They use direct acupuncture, spot massage and special moxibustion sticks. Manipulation is carried out only by a qualified specialist who prescribes the necessary number of sessions;
3. Treatment with hydrogen peroxide. The chemical compound is involved in all vital processes in the body, so it is also used for osteoarthritis. The drug is diluted with water at 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. Taking 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 gelatin-rich foods and dishes (chicken, pork giblets, gristle, aspic);
5. The use of stem cells. Innovative method of treating osteoarthritis. 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 cultured 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. It is recommended that before starting the procedure, warm up the muscles with exercise therapy exercises, and then carry out manipulations. A good effect is added by using water procedures in conjunction with massage. Initially, the first few sessions should 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 will need to see a doctor about continuing the procedure. Manipulation helps well in the early stages of osteoarthritis.

Manual therapy is used in individual cases and is carried out by a special doctor. 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 done 3-4 times throughout the year.

Treatment, prevention of osteoarthritis with exercise therapy

Performing special exercises called physiotherapy is an effective method of treating osteoarthritis. To achieve the desired effect, you must follow the rules of complex gymnastics exercises:

1. The exercises are 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 effort;
4. During training, you need to take special breaks to relax the joint;
5. The combination of massage, therapeutic drugs and exercise therapy;
6. The exercises are performed with a calm course of illness;
7. The relationship between simple muscle tension and motor activity should be noted. It is this technique that will strengthen the joint;

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

Methodology of the 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 extra load on the joint, but special simulators are used. As a pain reliever, the doctor suggests using ice and other cooling ingredients.

In parallel with the conduct of this therapy, swimming, bathing procedures, special massages, steam sauna with subsequent cooling are also recommended.

In medical practice, many positive cases have been demonstrated 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 developed his own method of treating osteoarthritis. It is based on a combination of medical and mechanical treatment of the affected joint.

This method is carried out according to the following scheme:

• The use of non-steroidal drugs;
• The use of co-protective drugs;
• External use of creams, anesthetic-type ointments;
• Application of compresses;
• Introduction of injections into the joint;
• Performing manual therapy;
• Physiological procedures;
• Therapeutic physical culture;
• Use special bandages, bandages, canes;
• Diet.

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

Osteoarthritis treatment using modern therapy methods

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

1. The phenomenon of kinesiotherapy, in which a specially designed set of exercises is prescribed, which aims to obtain the most positive effect;
2. Introducing ozone into the joint is called ozone therapy. It is a type of physiological procedure that emerged relatively recently and gained popularity due to its high efficiency;
3. The use of homeopathic remedies of a different nature.
4. Application and use of biologically active substances.

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

These treatment methods are used quite often in the treatment of osteoarthritis and most of the time they give 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 wraps and baths;
2. Physiological therapy;
3. exercise therapy;
4. Massage and manual therapy;
5. Modern methods of treating osteoarthritis.

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

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

Correct implementation of all prescribed procedures in the sanatorium and further improvement of the general condition, restoration of the joint, resumption of its mobility for 6 months is a confirmation of favorable treatment in these conditions. At the same time, overall 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 age of the patient and the body's ability to recover.

It is noteworthy that the use of condoprotective drugs is an expensive procedure, as the time of administration is quite long. In the treatment of the 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 prostheses. The prices for this operation are 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 from patients with arthrosis and who underwent complex treatment are pronounced. Most people say that arthrosis is best treated in the early stages of the disease, with full observance of all prescribed manipulations. At the same time, continuous preventive measures must be taken to prevent the development of the disease.

The third, fourth degree of the disease is practically untreated, and doctors recommend surgery. Depending on the degree of knee deformity, various surgical operations are performed from reconstruction to complete joint replacement. Postoperative periods and additional remission time also recommend prophylaxis and further surgical interventions.

Finally, it is worth emphasizing the important point of the article and saying that osteoarthritis 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 willing to this disease, you must strictly observe all preventive methods to prevent the progression of this pathology!