Learn what arthrosis is and the different types and degrees of this disease that exist. Learn about the causes and symptoms of osteoarthritis, as well as how to treat and prevent it.
Arthrosis is a common disease of the musculoskeletal system associated with the disruption of the structure and function of the joints. The disease is chronic and usually develops gradually, its manifestations intensify with age. Arthrosis can be identified by various symptoms, such as pain, limited movement, joint deformation, etc.
Arthrosis can occur in any joint, but large joints are most affected: knee, hip, shoulder, elbow. The disease can also be classified into several types depending on which joint is affected. For example, there are maxillofacial arthrosis, digital arthrosis, arthrosis of the spine and many others.
Each type of arthrosis has its own characteristics, but the common feature is the loss of joint function, which can cause significant disruptions in the patient's life. In order to avoid serious consequences, it is important to consult a specialist at the first signs of the disease and start timely treatment, which can be drug or surgical.
Arthrosis: degrees and types of the disease
Degrees of arthrosis
Arthritis is a disease that can develop gradually and go through several stages. The degree of arthrosis depends on how much the joints are affected and what changes occur in them. There are usually three degrees of arthrosis.
- First degree- at this stage of the disease, the patient may feel only minor pains in the joints after physical activity or staying in one position for a long time. Loss of noise when moving joints is also possible.
- Second degree- at this stage of arthrosis, the pain is especially strong when moving, and swelling and movement of the bone in the joint is also possible.
- Third degree- the most serious stage of arthrosis, when the pain syndrome becomes unbearable and the joint cannot fully perform its functions. In this case, urgent medical assistance is required.
Types of arthrosis
Osteoarthritis can affect a variety of joints, but most commonly occurs in the knees, hips, elbows, and shoulders. The following types of arthrosis are distinguished.
- Knee arthrosis- This is one of the most common types of arthrosis affecting the knee joints. Joint damage or overuse can also occur due to genetic factors.
- Hip arthrosisis an injury to the hip and hip joints that often occurs in people over 50 years of age or those who are prone to the disease.
- Elbow arthrosisis a disease that affects the elbow joint. This usually occurs as a result of injury or overuse of the joint, as well as repetitive minor injuries that cause microtrauma to the joint.
- Shoulder arthrosisis damage to the shoulder joint that can occur either as a result of injury or due to various diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or juvenile arthritis.
In any case, to prevent the development of arthrosis, it is necessary to monitor the condition of your joints and consult a doctor at the first signs of the disease.
Arthrosis: conception and causes of development
Arthrosis is a disease of the musculoskeletal system that causes degenerative changes in the cartilage tissue of the joints. The disease manifests itself in the form of pain, stiffness of movement and joint deformation, which can lead to disruption of the patient's full life activity.
The main reason for the development of arthrosis is damage to the cartilage, which is responsible for the shock absorption function of the joints. Damage can occur as a result of mechanical damage, increased load in certain areas, disruption of blood circulation and nutrition of tissues.
The development of arthrosis can be influenced by various factors, such as age, heredity, metabolic disorders, obesity, hormonal disorders, as well as mechanical stress related to professional or household activities.
Types of arthrosis:
- Coxarthrosis (damage to the hip joint);
- gonarthrosis (knee joint damage);
- Humeral arthrosis (damage of the shoulder joint);
- Radiocarpal arthrosis (damage of the carpal-radial joint);
- Interphalangeal arthrosis (damage to the interphalangeal joints of the fingers).
X-rays, computer tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, as well as clinical and laboratory tests are used to diagnose arthrosis. Treatment includes conservative methods (drug therapy, physiotherapy, manual therapy), as well as surgical methods, including joint replacement.
Types of arthrosis
Arthritis is a joint disease characterized by gradual destruction of cartilage tissue. There are several types of arthrosis, each of which has its own characteristics and reasons for its development.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthrosis that occurs as a result of the body's natural aging and wear and tear of the joints. A distinctive feature of arthrosis is the destruction of cartilage tissue, which causes pain during movement and limited mobility of the joint.
Post-traumatic arthrosis
Post-traumatic arthrosis develops as a result of an injury that damages the joints, such as a fracture. Reconstruction of the joint can lead to imperfect regeneration of cartilage tissue, which can lead to the development of arthrosis.
Rheumatoid arthrosis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease associated with increased activity of the immune system. In this case, inflammation of the joints occurs, which leads to the destruction of cartilage and deformation of the joints.
Summary:There are several types of arthrosis, each of which has its own characteristics and reasons for its development. Osteoarthritis is the most common type associated with natural aging and joint wear and tear. Post-traumatic arthrosis occurs as a result of damage to the joints, while rheumatoid arthrosis is associated with increased activity of the immune system and causes deformation of the joints.
How does arthrosis develop?
Arthrosis is a chronic disease of the joints, characterized by the breakdown of cartilage function, the structure and function of bone and muscle substances. The development of arthrosis begins with the gradual wear and tear of the cartilage tissue, which causes it to become dehydrated, lose its elasticity and mobility. This causes degenerative changes in the joint, usually leading to serious damage to the joint.
When the cartilage begins to wear out, its mechanical shock-absorbing function is impaired and pathological contact between the joint segments occurs. Worn bone fragments become rough and jagged and oppose the plane of the articular surface. This leads to a violation of the adhesion of the articular surfaces to each other, an increase in the load on them, and the development of additional friction that accelerates the wear of the cartilage.
Thus, the development of arthrosis is associated with slow progression of cartilage damage, changes in bone tissue, reduction of synovial fluid and loss of its fatty properties. Typically, the symptoms of osteoarthritis appear with age, but can also occur as a result of injury or stress to the joint, as well as an unhealthy lifestyle that reduces the ability of tissues to regenerate and maintain normal bodily functions.
Arthrosis: types, degrees, symptoms
What symptoms occur with arthrosis?
Arthrosis is a chronic disease of the joints, which can cause disruption of their functions and vital activity. This disease can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Joint pain. This is the most common symptom of arthrosis. Typically, the pain increases with movement and decreases with rest. It can be sharp or dull and painful.
- Limitation of movement in the joint. With osteoarthritis, you may feel that the joint is stiff and unable to move. The patient may have difficulty bending or straightening the knee or elbow, for example.
- Creaking or noise when moving. With arthrosis, there may be a creaking or noise in the joints that occurs with every movement.
- Swelling and redness. Some #1093; In cases of arthritis, this can cause swelling and redness of the joint. But this rarely happens.
- Joint deformation. Chronic deformation may occur along with the long duration of the disease, which will be accompanied by pain and limitation of movement.
If you notice such symptoms, you should consult a doctor who will diagnose and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
How is arthrosis diagnosed?
Basic diagnostic methods
Different methods are used to diagnose arthrosis. The main ones are:
- Clinical examination of the patient;
- radiography;
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI);
- computed tomography (CT);
- Arthroscopy.
Clinical examination
The clinical examination of the patient is carried out by the doctor who examines the joint for pain, swelling, limited mobility and other signs of arthrosis. In addition, the doctor asks questions about the nature, duration and manifestations of pain in various situations.
Radiography
Radiography allows determining the degree of joint damage and identifying characteristic changes characteristic of arthrosis. This diagnostic method allows to determine the reduction of joint spaces, the presence of bone sprouts and joint deformations.
Magnetic resonance imaging
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) helps to more accurately determine the nature of joint damage and identify other changes that are not accessible to radiography.
CT scan
Computed tomography (CT) is a more accurate method for diagnosing arthrosis than radiography, as it allows creating a more detailed image of the joint.
Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy allows you to examine the joint using a special instrument - an arthroscope. This diagnostic method allows to more accurately determine the degree of joint damage and determine the cause of the development of arthrosis.
Treatment of arthrosis: features depending on the degree of development
1st degree of arthrosis
In the first stage of the development of arthrosis, it is necessary to take measures to protect the joints and strengthen the muscular system. Physical activity and moderate exercise will help strengthen your muscles and prevent joint injuries. At the same time, you should avoid excessive stress and a sedentary lifestyle.
2nd degree arthrosis
At this stage of the development of arthrosis, the main task is to reduce pain and prevent further destruction of the joints. In this case, physiotherapeutic procedures, massage, as well as the use of anti-inflammatory drugs and medicinal ointments can help. It is also recommended to regularly do exercises for joints and muscles.
3rd degree arthrosis
In the third stage of arthrosis, significant destruction of the articular surface occurs, which can cause serious limitations in movement. In this case, the operation is often prescribed to restore the joint and restore its functionality. Rehabilitation treatments, including physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises, are also needed to restore joint function after surgery.
The main methods of preventing arthrosis
Maintain a normal body weight
Excess body weight has a negative effect on the condition of the joints, especially those that are more stressed. Weight in arthrosis is one of the main risk factors for the development of the disease. The greater the weight, the more force is applied to the joints and the faster the degenerative process in the cartilage tissue progresses. To prevent the development of arthrosis, it is necessary to control the weight as much as possible and avoid excessive increase in body weight.
Exercise regularly
Weak muscles and especially weak joint muscles are risk factors for osteoarthritis. Regular exercises that strengthen the muscles of the body and joints will help prevent the development of arthrosis. It should be remembered that excessive loads on the joints can negatively affect the condition of the cartilage. Therefore, it is necessary to choose exercises that will not cause significant stress on the joints, but at the same time will help strengthen the muscles.
Choose the right shoes
Shoes, especially shoes you wear regularly, can have a significant impact on joint health. Avoid wearing high heels as they can put extra pressure on the knee joints and contribute to the development of osteoarthritis. You should also avoid shoes that are too stiff and tight, which can cause misalignment of the foot and increased stress on the joints.
Nutritious food
A nutritious and balanced diet is of great importance not only for the health of the joints, but also for the health of the body as a whole. If you have osteoarthritis, you should increase your consumption of foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, which help strengthen bones and joints. Drinking enough water is also very important to maintain optimal hydration levels of cartilage tissue.
Follow the rules of hygiene and prevention of joint damage
Observance of hygiene rules and prevention of joint damage will help prevent the development of arthrosis. When playing sports, do not put unnecessary stress on your joints, do not make sudden movements, do not lift heavy loads, use joint protectors.
Complications of arthrosis
Arthritis is a progressive joint disease that can cause various complications. One of the most serious complications of arthrosis is the complete destruction of the joint. Once a joint is completely destroyed, little can be done to restore its function and relieve pain.
Other complications of osteoarthritis include limited movement and loss of functionality in the joint. In some cases, surgery may be required to correct the problem.
Another possible complication of arthrosis is the development of an inflammatory process in the joint. This can cause pain, swelling and loss of joint function.
Complications of arthrosis can be avoided if you seek help when small changes start to appear in the joints. To reduce the risk of complications, it is important to monitor your health, lead a healthy lifestyle, and regularly consult a doctor for the prevention and treatment of arthrosis.
Arthritis and disability: what you need to know?
What is arthrosis?
Arthrosis is a chronic disease of the musculoskeletal system in which the function of the joints is disturbed. Different symptoms are pain in the joints and their deformation. Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint of the body, but the joints of the knee, hip, and shoulder are most commonly affected.
Types and degrees of arthrosis
Depending on which joint is affected, there are several types of arthrosis: knee, hip, shoulder, hand, wrist.
The degree of arthrosis can be different. Mild arthrosis is characterized by mild pain and limited joint deformation. The average degree of arthrosis is characterized by severe deformation of the joint and painful sensations even at rest. Severe arthrosis is accompanied by impaired joint mobility and severe pain.
Arthrosis and disability
In the case of severe arthrosis, when the mobility of the joints is impaired and the person feels severe pain, you can apply for disability. The decision on determining disability is made by the commission after a medical examination. Each case is considered individually and a decision is made based on the presence of medical indications determined by doctors.
Restrictions for arthrosis and disability
Most of the people suffering from arthrosis have movement limitations, which makes it difficult for them to function normally. When disability is established, such patients may be given additional benefits, such as benefits, free medicine and medical services, as well as the opportunity to contact social protection organizations.
How to maintain healthy joints with arthrosis?
Arthrosis is a chronic disease of the joints, which leads to the deterioration of their functions and the degeneration of the cartilage tissue. However, there are ways to maintain healthy joints with osteoarthritis.
Maintain a normal weight
Excess weight is the main enemy of the joints. The weight puts additional stress on the joints, accelerating their destruction. So monitor your weight and reduce it if necessary.
Engage in physical activity
Physical activity is necessary to strengthen muscles and ligaments, which helps reduce stress on joints. However, strong impact and traumatic loads should be avoided as they can damage the joints.
Pay attention to nutrition
Nutrition is an important aspect of joint health. Foods rich in calcium and vitamins strengthen bones and joints. However, it is necessary to limit the consumption of fatty, sweet and smoked foods, as they worsen the condition of the joints.
Visit your doctor
It is important to see a doctor regularly and monitor the condition of your joints. Osteoarthritis cannot be cured, but its symptoms can be reduced with treatment and special exercises.
Following these recommendations will help maintain healthy joints with arthrosis. It should be understood that the slightest discomfort in the joints should be taken seriously and measures should be taken to strengthen them.
Question and answer:
What is arthrosis?
Arthritis is a chronic joint disease characterized by the destruction of cartilage tissue. As a result, deformation and limitation of joint mobility occurs.
What are the types of arthrosis?
There are several types of arthrosis, which differ depending on where the joints are affected. For example, coxarthrosis (arthrosis of the pelvic joint), gonarthrosis (arthrosis of the knee joint), osteoarthrosis (arthrosis of the fingers and toes), neck arthrosis (arthrosis of the cervical vertebra), etc.
What are the symptoms of arthrosis?
Symptoms of arthrosis can vary depending on the severity of the disease. The main symptoms are pain and discomfort in the joints, stiffness and limitation of mobility, grinding and cracking sounds when moving the joints, swelling and redness of the joints.
What factors can cause the development of arthrosis?
Risk factors for the development of arthrosis may include age, sex, heredity, joint injuries and overuse, obesity, calcium and vitamin D metabolism disorders, diabetes, and other diseases such as gout.
What treatment methods are used for arthrosis?
Various methods can be used to treat osteoarthritis, including drug therapy, exercise and rehabilitation measures, massage and physical therapy. In some cases, surgical intervention may be required - endoprosthetic or arthroscopy.
What is the prognosis for people with osteoarthritis?
Life prognosis for people with arthrosis depends on the degree of the disease and the time of treatment. If treatment is not carried out, complications and limitations in joint mobility are possible. By starting treatment on time and following the doctor's recommendations, most patients with arthrosis can continue their full lifestyle and work.