Osteoarthritis is the progressive non-inflammatory destruction of articular cartilage.
As a result of degenerative-dystrophic changes, the joint gradually loses its function, flexion-extension movements in it become difficult and then completely impossible.
Joints are movable joints of bones. There are more than 200 such joints in the human body, which provide all types of movements of the bone skeleton. Free sliding occurs in them due to the smooth surfaces of hyaline cartilage and synovial lubrication.
With arthrosis, the hyaline cartilage thins and gradually collapses, becomes rough, and synovial lubrication becomes insufficient for free gliding. As a result, friction occurs, which restricts movement in the joint andLeads to its progressive destruction.
Arthrosis is one of the most common degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the musculoskeletal system. They affect more than 30% of people aged 45 to 65 years and more than 65% of people over 65 years of age. The incidence depends on ageThere is a clear dependency.
Most often, the disease affects the large joints – the knee (gonarthrosis), hip (coxarthrosis), and shoulder. Of the small joints, the joints of the hands, feet, and spine are most commonly affected.
At the last stage of the disease, ankylosis (complete immobilization) of the joint occurs. In this case, only surgical treatment is possible - removal and replacement with endoprosthesis.
At stages 1 – 3 of arthrosis, conservative treatment is possible, aimed at slowing down and stopping the destruction of the joint, gradual restoration of cartilage tissue, improving functions (mobility), increasing the range of motion, relieving pain. Symptoms and swelling.
In the clinic, these goals are achieved through the integrated use of reflexology, herbal and physiotherapy methods of oriental medicine.
due to arthrosis
The cause of the disease is the predominance of wear of hyaline cartilage over its regeneration process. This means that due to stress the articular cartilage wears out and destroys faster than it can heal.
This is due to the action of two factors – increased load and/or slow recovery.
Regeneration of hyaline cartilage requires collagen, which is produced in the body with the participation of the liver.
This organ not only participates in the synthesis of collagen necessary for joints, but is also responsible for the level of body heat.
From a medical point of view, the cause of all diseases caused by cold, including arthrosis, is a decrease in the level of body heat. This, in particular, can be due to insufficient liver function.
All arthrosis belong to degenerative, dystrophic diseases. Their development begins with dystrophy, that is, tissue starvation due to insufficient blood supply.
To constantly regenerate, articular cartilage needs collagen, which is a universal building material of connective tissue. This protein substance is synthesized in the body and enters the joints with the blood.
If for some reason the blood supply is disrupted, the hyaline cartilage lacks collagen. The regeneration process in them slows down. In this case, the joints that bear the most load - knee, ankle, hip andShoulders – suffer the most. The articular cartilage gradually begins to wear out and collapse.
When the cartilage is destroyed, its fragments break off and move freely in the joint cavity (so-called "rats"), causing pinching, blockage, limiting movement and increasing pain.
Another cause of the disease may be collagen deficiency due to insufficient synthesis of this substance in the body. This may be caused, for example, by functional insufficiency of the liver, which takes an active part in this synthesis.
Provocative factors for the development of the disease can be:
- overweight,
- unhealthy diet
- heavy physical work, intense sports,
- stroke, multiple microstrokes,
- exposure to cold
- age-related changes in the body (dehydration),
- Congenital anomalies (dysplasia, weakness of connective tissues, etc. ).
classification
Arthrosis that develops against the background of metabolic disorders is called primary.
Secondary arthrosis occurs against the background of inflammatory processes (arthritis, including autoimmune), endocrine diseases or injuries.
Some of the most common forms of the disease have their own names - gonarthrosis (knee joint), coxarthrosis (hip joint), spondyloarthrosis (spine).
Due to the joining of inflammation, the disease is diagnosed as arthrosis-arthritis.
There are four stages in the development of the disease.
Arthrosis of the first stage is manifested by periodic pain and slight narrowing of the joint space.
Stage 2 of the disease means noticeable narrowing of the joint space, limited range of motion, formation of bone growths (osteophytes), and joint deformity.
Stage 3 arthrosis means almost complete disappearance of the joint space, limitation of range of motion to a minimum, joint deformity, involvement of periarticular tissues and bones (osteoarthrosis, periarthrosis).
In the fourth stage, complete immobilization (ankylosis) occurs, the joint space disappears completely.
Symptoms of arthrosis
Like many other degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the musculoskeletal system, arthrosis develops gradually.
Symptoms may be absent for a long time, although changes in the properties of cartilage tissue, quantity and synovial lubrication have already begun.
Symptoms of stage 1 arthrosis include increased fatigue in the joints, minor pain that occurs at the beginning of movements after physical activity or after prolonged immobility (so-called "starting" pain), after which the joint develops flexion-extension. And the range of rotational movements is not limited, and no difficulties occur during the movements.
In stage 2, pain in the joints becomes more intense and lasts longer, even with minor loads. Creaking or rattling sounds are heard while walking. Flexion, extension, rotational movements become difficult. is, their volume becomes increasingly limited. Rigidity develops.
In the third stage of arthrosis, joint pain remains constant. Movements in the joint occur with great difficulty, their volume becomes minimal. Due to the growth and increase in size of the bones, the joint becomes severely deformed. WhenIf joints are affected, severe lameness develops.
In stages 2-3 of the disease, inflammation is usually accompanied by symptoms such as swelling, redness, increased pain, and local fever.
Pain with arthrosis can intensify with changes in weather, dampness, cold, at night, at the beginning of movement or during physical activity, as well as when the joint is blocked with a mouse.
diagnosis
Arthrosis is diagnosed on the basis of a survey, external examination and hardware methods (X-ray, CT, MRI).
During the interview, the doctor studies the medical history, asks the patient about the symptoms, the circumstances of their appearance and intensity.
At the initial appointment in the clinic, the doctor, as a rule, asks the patient not only about the symptoms of arthrosis, but also about the nature of nutrition and lifestyle, because in Eastern medicine the human body is considered as a single system. This integrated system consists of internal relationships.
For example, the condition of the joints depends on the metabolism, immunity, hormonal systems and movement of body fluids, body mass index.
Modern medicine classifies arthrosis as a winter disease that develops against the background of lack of energy in the body, reduction of heat levels and accumulation of cold. The key factors in this case are poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, Are exposed to cold and moisture.
During external examination, the doctor pays attention to the shape, size, range of motion of the joints, as well as symptoms of inflammation - swelling, redness, local increase in temperature.
After examining and interviewing the patient, the doctor sends him for additional examinations – X-ray, CT or MRI.
On the X-ray, the doctor sees a narrowing in the joint space, which indicates thinning of the cartilage. Depending on the degree of narrowing, it determines the stage of arthrosis.
An X-ray image clearly shows osteophytes – growths on the edges of the bones that form during arthrosis.
X-rays see bone tissue well, but show connective, soft structures poorly. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides much more information.
Using a tomogram, the doctor can examine in detail the condition of the hyaline cartilage, as well as the synovial bursa, the joint capsule, and detect damage to the joint "rats", meniscus and ligaments.
To study the blood supply in the joint, angiography using a contrast agent (radiography, computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging) is prescribed.
treatment of arthrosis
In stage 4 arthrosis, surgical treatment is used, the joint is removed and replaced with an endoprosthesis. In stages 1-3 of the disease, conservative treatment is carried out.
- Medicines.Drug therapy is used to relieve symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. In the presence of an inflammatory process, hormonal (glucocorticoids) or non-steroidal drugs (NSAIDs based on ibuprofen, diclofenac, etc. ) are prescribed. Usually, these drugs are given by injection into the joint or intramuscularly. To slow down the process of destruction of articular cartilage, chondroprotectors are prescribed.
- Injection into the joint.To reduce friction and improve gliding, hyaluronic acid is injected into the joint cavity, the molecules of which have the ability to retain moisture. Injections of hyaluronic acid protect the cartilage surfaces from drying out and slow down their destruction. We do.
In the presence of severe inflammation and swelling, injections of hormonal drugs into the joint cavity are used. - Operation.Surgical treatment of arthrosis consists in replacing the joint with an endoprosthesis. Such interventions are indicated in the fourth stage of the disease with ankylosis (complete immobility).
- Physiotherapy.To relieve inflammation, physical therapy methods such as laser therapy, magnetic therapy and administration of drugs using current (electrophoresis) or ultrasound (phonophoresis) are used.
Applying, baking and warming clay improves local blood circulation, promotes healing and restoration of cartilage tissue and relieves pain. - Other treatments.To prevent arthrosis, as well as as an adjunctive method of treatment, exercise therapy (physical therapy) is prescribed. Regularly performing simple exercises improves the blood supply to the joint, its mobility and movement. The limit increases.
Hot baths can be used to warm the painful joint and relieve symptoms. Balneological treatments for arthrosis include treatments such as mud or radon baths.
Is it important!
Chondroprotectors do not affect the causes of arthrosis. Basically, these are not therapeutic, but prophylactic agents. They contain chondroitin and glucosamine, which act to increase the amount of lubrication (synovial fluid) and facilitate gliding. Reduce frictionDoing this slows down the destruction of the cartilage, but does not restore it.
In order not only to slow down the development of the disease, but also to reverse it, it is necessary to improve the blood supply, activate the processes of metabolism and tissue regeneration. Chondroprotectors do not do this. Therefore, they are used as an aidCan be done, but not as a replacement for full treatment.
Treatment of arthrosis in a specialized clinic
In the clinic, stage 1 – 3 arthrosis is treated using phyto-, physio- and reflexology methods of oriental medicine. Positive results of treatment of this disease are achieved in more than 90% of cases.
Complex treatment sessions include several procedures (moxibustion therapy, acupressure, acupuncture, etc. ), which mutually enhance the effect according to the principle of synergy.
Treatment in the clinic is aimed at eliminating the cause of arthrosis, this ensures a long-term and lasting result.
Joint diseases refer to disorders of the base of the bad ear - one of the body's three control systems, the balance of which means health, and the imbalance of which means disease. In addition to the joints, this base also includes the lymphatic system, the body's fluidSubstance responsible for immunity, hormones and metabolism.
Bad ear imbalance usually causes not one, but several diseases at once. Therefore, arthrosis is almost always accompanied by concomitant disorders, diseases, for example, overweight (obesity), chronic respiratory diseases, allergies and/orOr immunodeficiency conditions, endocrine disorders, hormone-dependent gynecological diseases (in women), etc.
Modern treatment holistically restores the balance of the bad ear base and thus eliminates the common cause of all these diseases. Therefore, along with arthrosis, there are other concomitant diseases.
When treating arthrosis, the doctor works not only on the area of the affected joint, but also on the entire body to restore the balance of the Badak-N base. This is the secret of the high effectiveness of arthrosis treatment in our clinic.
Tszyu or moxo therapy.
The process involves heating the bioactive points simultaneously or sequentially with a wormwood cigar or smoldering cone (made from wormwood or coal). Zoo therapy is the main treatment of arthrosis in alternative medicine. It is used locally, on the affected joint. Bad Kan is performed on the area of and meridians of the body to restore the balance of the base and the entire body.
This procedure has a comprehensive effect: improves blood circulation, stimulates blood flow, activates and accelerates the restoration and renewal of connective tissues, improves the properties and normalizes the amount of synovial lubrication. , and has an anti-inflammatory and metabolic effect.
Acupuncture.
The introduction of medical needles into bioactive points has an anti-inflammatory, decongestant, analgesic effect, and promotes the outflow of inflammatory fluid.
Impact on the bioactive points of the Liver meridian helps to improve the functioning of this organ and activate collagen synthesis in the body.
Impact on the bioactive points of the kidneys helps to improve blood circulation in the lower body with gonarthrosis, coxarthrosis and other arthrosis of the feet.
Accupressure.
Strong point pressure improves local circulation, increases blood flow, accelerates metabolic processes and tissue regeneration, eliminates muscle tension and spasms. Acupressure on the body meridians (ku-ni) improves the body's overall energy levels. Increases.
Phytotherapy.
For arthrosis, various herbal remedies are prescribed that speed up the metabolism, increase the level of body heat, accelerate recovery processes in the body, have anti-inflammatory effects and improve the functioning of the liver and kidneys. We do.
Auxiliary equipment.
Hirudotherapy, stone therapy, manual therapy and shock wave therapy are used as adjuvant means.
Hirudotherapy has anti-inflammatory effect and improves blood circulation.
Hot stone therapy increases the level of heat in the body.
Shock wave therapy (SWT) improves local blood circulation, accelerating the healing and restoration of the joint.
With the help of manual therapy, the doctor relieves the painful joint, increases range of motion and mobility.
Diet for arthrosis
For arthrosis, warming, hot food is indicated.
Hot foods such as fish, lamb, poultry, seafood, pumpkin, liver, nuts, as well as garlic, onion, ghee and sesame oil are recommended.
To increase the energy value of food, you must consume spices (ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, black pepper, turmeric, coriander, asafoetida etc. ).
Hot dishes that contain a lot of animal connective tissue, for example, rich bone and meat broths, are useful.
You should exclude cold foods, cold drinks, reduce the intake of cold foods like sugar, butter, milk and dairy products, confectionery, citrus fruits, raw vegetables and leafy salads, semolina and legumes.
Arthrosis prevention
To prevent arthrosis, you should avoid factors that provoke imbalance in the base of the bad ear - cold nutrition, a sedentary lifestyle (physical inactivity), exposure to cold, moisture.
Warm nutrition, physical activity, in particular, walking, outdoor sports and physical therapy exercises are useful.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arthrosis
Are vitamin complexes useful for arthrosis?
Vitamin complexes influence metabolic processes in general. But they have no specific, preventive or therapeutic effect for joint diseases. To maintain normal health and physical balance, the vitamins present in food are sufficient, provided proper nutrition is provided. Go.
Is there always swelling with arthrosis?
No not always. Osteoarthritis may accompany arthritis, but inflammation is secondary. Therefore, the use of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for arthrosis does not always help and is often pointless.
Is summer good for joints?
Warming up for arthrosis improves blood circulation and is generally beneficial. But only in the absence of an acute inflammatory process. For arthritis, thermal procedures and warming are prohibited.
How long does arthrosis treatment last?
Usually, the treatment course in the rehabilitation clinic consists of 10 - 15 complex sessions, which are carried out every other day, and takes 21 - 30 days. This is followed by a break of 6 months. Six months later, an examination is carried out, on the basis of which it is decided to conduct a second course of treatment to enhance and consolidate the results.