Therapeutic measures for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee

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 in the knee joint is a long-term 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 prescriptions from the attending physician. Therefore, it is necessary to consider in more detail the degree of arthrosis and all methods of treatment of pathology.

Degrees of osteoarthritis in the knee joint

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

• First degree.The onset of the disease is characterized by constant pain in the legs of a pulling character. At the same time, the mobility of the joints is limited, and with a sharp movement, a corresponding crunch occurs. Increased physical activity increases the deformity of the joint. If you do not load the leg, the pain is practically not manifested. The X-ray shows the narrowing of the joint space, the destruction of the joint is not observed.
• Second degree.Osteoarthritis at this stage of the development of the disease is characterized by the occurrence of severe pain in the joint, which limits movement, and the person can no longer travel long distances on his own. The obliteration of the joint begins, a crunch in the knee is noted and a gait with lameness appears. The gap in the joint narrows to a minimum, the formation of so-called osteophyte tips occurs, and inflammation can begin.
• 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 osteoarthritis: complete deformity of the knee, absence of the joint space on X-ray, limitation of joint mobility.
• fourth degreecharacterized 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 degree of osteoarthritis in the knee joint after a series of specially performed examinations. If you experience similar symptoms, go to the hospital immediately to see a rheumatologist.

Basic treatment methods

The treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee includes the use of a wide range of techniques from medical 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 and also 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, the person's age. At the same time, a maximum effort is made to avoid surgical interventions and keep the knee intact.

Removal of excess load 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 load on the joint. To do this, you need to follow a diet, do sports (use only permitted exercises, exercise regularly, exercise therapy).

They also use a variety of special bandages and installations to fix the knee joint and properly distribute the load on it. Such devices are orthopedic and are specially designed to correct and restore the knee joint. The time for using devices and bandages is appointed 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, non-steroidal analgesics, hormonal drugs, chondroprotective drugs. Positive results and progress in treatment are provided 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. Medicines 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 no 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 hormonal drugs that quickly eliminate pain and speed up the recovery process. The duration of treatment with these drugs is short-lived, as they have a large number of contraindications for continuous use.
3. Preparations of chondoprotective action.They contain natural sources of structural elements of connective tissue in the cartilage and perform the function of restoring the knee joint. The use of medication also helps relieve painful symptoms. Medicine is presented in the form of tablets, ointments, gel. The main method of using chondoprotectors is the introduction of the drug into the synovial fluid.

The total duration of treatment lasts about 4 months. As practice shows, the results give positive changes that are clearly visible on X-rays. Hyaluronic acid is called as a protector of fluid in the joint. It has a practically 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 way of surgical intervention. This manipulation is carried out at the primary 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 first performed, 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 deformity. The essence of the procedure lies in a special fracture of the bone and its further correct fusion. In this case, the joint is restored, the pain disappears. And also use the necessary parts of artificial tissue;
3. Implementation of endoprosthetics. 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 consequences, where the level of physical activity increases significantly.

Treatment with physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is an effective treatment method in the initial phase of the development of osteoarthritis. She is actively reducing
pain, relieves muscle tension and partially restores the primary structure of the joint. There are the following types of physiological procedures:

• Performance of 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 treatment duration is 9-15 procedures lasting 30 minutes.
• The use of laser therapy as an anti-inflammatory effect. When using this technique, the following types are used: treatment with infrared radiation, low-frequency UHF, centimeter wave therapy. Such methods positively affect the restoration of the joint. 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 initial stages of osteoarthritis. The average duration of the procedures is 10-20 times, and the duration is from 7 to 15 minutes.
• Physiological procedures with intensive influence. A wide variety of procedures are used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee joint. Several basic techniques should 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 cartilage tissue. It is recommended to use within 14 days. Using electrophoresis. The use of electric currents in connection with the introduction of drugs. The advantage of this method is a 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 the phenomenon of interference therapy. A characteristic 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 actively reduces pain while performing restorative functions of the knee. The full rehabilitation course is 10-15 procedures lasting approximately half an hour for 15 days. Taking special therapeutic baths. They are an integral part of the procedures for therapeutic measurements of osteoarthritis. Combinations of water with sage, hydrogen sulphide, radon, bischofite, therapeutic mud are very effective. These procedures have a great analgesic effect and can be used for local or general use. The duration of the session is 10-30 minutes. The average course of treatment is 10-20 days.

Traditional medicine for the treatment of osteoarthritis in the knee joint

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

• 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 alcohol-based solution is applied to the affected joint daily for a month;
• Horseradish compress.This vegetable effectively reduces pain symptoms and partially restores the normal function of the joint. The process of making a dressing 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;
• Aloe use. The plant has natural anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving properties and is actively used in the treatment of osteoarthritis. You can make flower based compresses and also use crushed leaves or apply them on the affected area. The duration of treatment with this agent must last at least one month;
• Tincture based on cinquefoil.The recipe for preparation is to use the herb together with alcohol and obtain a suitable solution for the prevention and treatment of osteoarthritis. The medicine is taken 3-4 drops a day or used as compresses. The treatment is continued for one month;
• A mixture of mustard, sand and salt.All components of the composition must be thoroughly mixed 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, improving blood circulation in the joint. The procedure is not recommended during the acute course of the disease.

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

Non-traditional means 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 effective. Since insects are attached to the points of biological impact on 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 the treatment is prescribed by a special doctor;
2. The use of acupuncture by inserting needles into the active points of the joint. It also presents a number of effective procedures for the treatment of 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 in the body, so it is also used for osteoarthritis. The medicine is diluted with water in the 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 osteoarthritis. The dose per day is 10 grams. And the duration of treatment by this method must be at least 90 days. It is also good to use foods and dishes rich in gelatin (chicken, pork offal, cartilage, aspic);
5. The use of stem cells. Innovative method for treating osteoarthritis. Its uniqueness lies in stem cells, which have the ability to regenerate and regenerate into new cell 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. It is recommended that, before starting the procedure, you warm up the muscles with exercise therapy exercises and then perform manipulations. A good effect is added by the use of water procedures in connection with massage. Initially, the first sessions should last no more than 10 minutes, then gradually increase to 20 minutes.

After the massage, the patient should feel a slight relaxation and no pain. If they are present, 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 special doctor. For its implementation, the patient must have certain indications. The essence of the method lies in the soft 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 during the year.

Treatment, prevention of osteoarthritis with exercise therapy

Performing special exercises called physiotherapy is an effective method of treating osteoarthritis. To get the desired effect, follow the rules for complex gymnastic exercises:

1. Exercises are performed only on the recommendation of the attending physician;
2. The training regimen should be several times during the day;
3. Exclusion of strong physical exertion;
4. During training, 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 relationship between simple muscle tension and motor activity should be observed. It is this technique that will strengthen the joint;

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

Methodology for Doctor of Medical Sciences

This method of treatment was developed by a famous scientist, doctor of medical sciences. The essence of therapy is based on healing the patient using 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 performance of this therapy, swimming, bathing procedures, special massage treatments, a steam bath with subsequent cooling are recommended.

In medical practice, there have been many positive cases in the treatment of osteoarthritis, where joint mobility was restored and the patient could live a normal life.

Method for a rheumatologist

The famous doctor has developed his own method of treating osteoarthritis. It is based on a combination of medical, 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 chondroprotective drugs;
• External use of creams, ointments of an anesthetic type;
• Application of compresses;
• Introduction of injections into the joint;
• Performing manual therapy;
• Physiological procedures;
• Therapeutic physical culture;
• Wearing special bandages, bandages, canes;
• Slimming diets.

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

Treatment of osteoarthritis using modern therapy methods

Modern methods of arthrotherapy are actively combined with medicine and other treatment methods. The following types are used:

1. The phenomenon of kinesitherapy, where a specially designed set of exercises is prescribed, which aims to achieve the most positive effect;
2. The introduction of ozone into the joint is called ozone therapy. It is a kind of physiological procedures that have appeared relatively recently and have gained popularity due to their high efficiency;
3. The use of homeopathic remedies of various nature.
4. Application and use of biologically active substances.

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

These treatment methods are used quite often in the treatment of osteoarthritis and mostly give positive results. The combination of methods is chosen by a qualified rheumatologist.

Treatment of arthrosis in sanatorium-resort conditions

An indication for 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 deformity of the joint;
• 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 prescribed procedures in the sanatorium and further improvement of the general condition, restoration of the joint, resumption of its mobility in 6 months is a confirmation of favorable treatment under these conditions. At the same time, general analyzes show a positive trend.

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

The cost of complex treatment of arthrosis in the knee joint depends on the degree of the disease, the general condition of the joint, the stage of 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 conditions for their administration are quite long. In the treatment of pathology, a large number of measures are prescribed, which also have a rather large pricing policy.

The last stages of osteoarthritis 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 best not to start the disease, but to treat it in the early stages of its occurrence!

Reviews of patients with osteoarthritis who have undergone complex treatment are pronounced. Most people say that osteoarthritis is best treated in the early stages of the disease, with full compliance with all prescribed manipulations. At the same time, ongoing 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 deformity, various surgical operations are performed from reconstruction to complete replacement of the joint. Postoperative periods and additional remission time also recommend prophylaxis and new 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 predisposed to this disease, you must strictly observe all preventive methods to prevent the progression of this pathology!