Osteoarthritis is the progressive non-inflammatory destruction of articular cartilage.
As a result of degenerative-dystrophic changes, the joint gradually loses its functions, flexion-extension movements in it become difficult, and then completely impossible.
Joints are movable joints of bones. The human body contains more than 200 such joints, which allow all types of movements of the bony skeleton. The free sliding in it is carried out thanks to the smooth surfaces of hyaline cartilage and synovial lubrication.
In osteoarthritis, the hyaline cartilage thins and gradually collapses, becoming rough and the synovial lubrication becomes insufficient for free sliding. As a result, friction occurs, which hinders movement in the joint and leads to its gradual destruction.
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the musculoskeletal system. They affect more than 30% of people between 45 and 65 years of age, and more than 65% of people over 65 years of age. The incidence has a pronounced age dependency.
The disease usually affects large joints: the knee (gonarthrosis), hip (coxarthrosis) and shoulder. Of the small joints, the joints of the hand, foot and spine are most commonly affected.
In late stages of the disease, ankylosis (complete immobilization) of the joint occurs. In this case, only surgical treatment is possible: removal and replacement with an endoprosthesis.
In stages 1 - 3 of osteoarthritis, conservative treatment is possible, the aim of which is to slow down and stop the destruction of the joint, gradual restoration of cartilage tissue, improvement of functions (mobility), increasing range of motion, relief of pain symptoms and inflammation.
In the clinic, these goals are achieved through the integrated use of reflexology, herbal and physiotherapy methods from oriental medicine.
Causes of osteoarthritis
The cause of the disease is the predominance of wear and tear of hyaline cartilage over the regeneration process. This means that articular cartilage is worn and destroyed under stress faster than it can repair.
This happens due to the action of two factors: increased load and/or slow recovery.
Collagen is required for the regeneration of hyaline cartilage, which is produced in the body with the participation of the liver.
This organ not only participates in the synthesis of collagen, necessary for the joints, but is also responsible for the level of body heat.
From a medical point of view, the cause of all cold diseases, including osteoarthritis, is a decrease in body heat. This can happen mainly due to insufficient liver function.
All arthrosis belongs to degenerative, dystrophic diseases. Their development begins with dystrophy, that is, tissue starvation due to insufficient blood supply.
In order to continuously regenerate, articular cartilage needs collagen, a universal building material of connective tissue. This protein substance is synthesized in the body and enters the joints with the blood.
If the blood supply is disrupted for some reason, the hyaline cartilage lacks collagen. The regeneration process slows down. In this case, the joints that bear the maximum load (knees, ankles, hips and shoulders) suffer the most. Articular cartilage gradually begins to wear down and collapse.
When cartilage is destroyed, its fragments tear off and move freely into the joint cavity (the so-called "mice"), causing pinching, blocking, restriction of movement and increasing pain.
Another cause of the disease may be a deficiency of collagen due to insufficient synthesis of this substance in the body. This may be due, for example, to functional insufficiency of the liver, which actively participates in this synthesis.
Provoking factors for the development of the disease may be:
- overweight,
- unhealthy diet
- heavy physical work, intensive sports,
- trauma, multiple microtraumas,
- exposure to cold
- age-related changes (dehydration) in the body,
- congenital abnormalities (dysplasia, weakness of connective tissue, etc. ).
Classification
Osteoarthritis that develops against the background of metabolic disorders is called primary.
Secondary arthrosis occurs against the background of inflammatory processes (arthritis, including autoimmune diseases), 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).
With the addition of inflammation, the disease is diagnosed as osteoarthritis-arthritis.
There are four stages in the development of the disease.
Osteoarthritis 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, the formation of bone growths (osteophytes) and joint deformity.
Stage 3 osteoarthritis 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 4th phase, complete immobilization takes place (ankylosis), the joint space disappears completely.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis
Like many other degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the musculoskeletal system, osteoarthritis develops gradually.
Symptoms may be absent for a long time, although changes in cartilage tissue, volume and properties of synovial lubrication have already begun.
Symptoms of stage 1 osteoarthritis are increased fatigue in the joint, mild pain that occurs after physical activity or at the beginning of movements after long periods of immobility (the so-called "initial pain"), after which the joint develops. The range of flexion-extension and rotation movements is not limited and there are no problems during movements.
In stage 2, the pain in the joint becomes more intense and lasts longer, even with light loads. When moving, a cracking or cracking sound is heard. Flexion, extension and rotation movements become difficult, their volume becomes increasingly limited. Stiffness occurs.
In the third stage of osteoarthritis, joint pain becomes constant. Movements in the joint are performed with great difficulty, their volume is reduced to a minimum. The joint is severely deformed due to bone growth and becomes larger. When the joints of the legs are affected, severe lameness occurs.
In stages 2-3 of the disease, inflammation usually occurs with symptoms such as swelling, redness, increased pain and local fever.
Pain in 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 by a mouse.
Diagnostics
The diagnosis of arthrosis is carried out on the basis of examination, 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 exacerbation.
At the first 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 diet and lifestyle, since in Eastern medicine the human body is considered one system. In this unified system there are internal relationships.
For example, the condition of the joints is highly dependent on metabolism, the immune system, hormonal systems and the movement of body fluids, the body mass index.
Modern medicine classifies arthrosis as a cold disease that develops against the background of energy depletion of the body, a decrease in heat levels and the accumulation of cold. The main factors in this case are poor nutrition, sedentary lifestyle, exposure to cold and moisture.
During an external examination, the doctor pays attention to the size, shape of the joints, range of motion and signs of inflammation - swelling, redness, local temperature increase.
After examining and interviewing the patient, the doctor sends him for additional examination: X-ray, CT or MRI.
On an X-ray, the doctor sees a narrowing of the joint space, which indicates thinning of the cartilage. The stage of the osteoarthritis is determined based on the degree of narrowing.
An X-ray clearly shows osteophytes: growths along the edges of bones that develop during osteoarthritis.
X-rays visualize bone tissue well, but show poorly connecting, soft structures. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides much more information.
With the help of a tomogram, the doctor can examine in detail the condition of the hyaline cartilage, as well as the synovial bursa and joint capsule, and detect joint mice, damage to the meniscus and ligaments.
To study the blood supply to the joint, angiography with a contrast agent (radiography, computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging) is prescribed.
Treatment of osteoarthritis
In stage 4 osteoarthritis, 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 (glucocorticoid) or nonsteroidal drugs (NSAIDs based on ibuprofen, diclofenac, etc. ) are prescribed. Typically, these medications are administered by injection into a joint or intramuscularly. To slow down the process of destruction of articular cartilage, chondroprotectors are prescribed.
- Injections into the joint.To reduce friction and improve sliding, hyaluronic acid is injected into the joint cavity, the molecules of which have the ability to retain moisture. Hyaluronic acid injections protect cartilage surfaces from dehydration and slow down their destruction.
In the presence of severe inflammation and swelling, injections of hormonal drugs into the joint cavity are used. - Operation.Surgical treatment of osteoarthritis consists of replacing the joint with an endoprosthesis. Such interventions are indicated in the 4th stage of the disease with ankylosis (complete immobility).
- Physiotherapy.To relieve inflammation, physiotherapy methods such as laser therapy, magnetic therapy and the administration of drugs using current (electrophoresis) or ultrasound (phonophoresis) are used.
Mud applications, compresses and heating improve local blood circulation, promote healing and recovery of cartilage tissue and relieve pain. - Other treatments.To prevent osteoarthritis, as well as as an additional method of treatment, exercise therapy (physiotherapy) is prescribed. Performing simple exercises regularly improves blood flow to the joint, increases mobility and range of motion.
Hot baths can be used to warm a painful joint and relieve symptoms. Balneological treatment of osteoarthritis includes remedies such as mud or radon baths.
It is important!
Chondroprotectors have no influence on the causes of osteoarthritis. In essence, these are not therapeutic, but prophylactic agents. They contain chondroitin and glucosamine, which increase the amount of lubrication (joint fluid) and facilitate gliding. Reducing friction slows the destruction of cartilage, but does not repair it.
In order not only to slow down, but also reverse the development of the disease, it is necessary to improve blood supply, activate the processes of metabolism and tissue regeneration. Chondroprotectors do not do this. Therefore, they can be used as an aid, but not as a substitute for a full treatment.
Treatment of osteoarthritis in a specialized clinic
In the clinic, the treatment of stages 1 - 3 arthrosis is carried out using phyto-, physio- and reflexology methods of oriental medicine. Positive results are achieved in more than 90% of cases of treatment of this disease.
Complex treatment sessions include various procedures (moxibustion therapy, acupressure, acupuncture, etc. ), which mutually enhance the effect according to the principle of synergy.
The treatment in the clinic is aimed at removing the cause of the osteoarthritis, which ensures long-term and lasting results.
Joint diseases refer to conditions that underlie Bad Kan - one of the three control systems of the body, the balance of which means health, and the imbalance of which means disease. In addition to the joints, this foundation is responsible for the lymphatic system, body fluids, immunity, hormones and metabolism.
An imbalance of Bad Kan usually causes not one, but several diseases at the same time. Therefore, osteoarthritis is almost always accompanied by additional conditions, diseases such as overweight (obesity), chronic respiratory diseases, allergies and/or immunodeficiency disorders, endocrine disorders, hormone-dependent gynecological diseases (in women), etc.
Modern treatments restore the balance of the Bad Kan base as a whole, thus eliminating the common cause of all these diseases. That is why, in addition to osteoarthritis, other associated diseases also occur.
In the treatment of osteoarthritis, the doctor works not only on the area of the affected joint, but also on the body as a whole, to restore the balance of the Badk-an base. This is the secret of the high effectiveness of osteoarthritis treatment in our clinic.
Tszyu or moxo therapy.
This procedure consists of simultaneously or successively heating bioactive points with a wormwood cigar or smoldering cones (made from wormwood or coal). Ju therapy is the most important treatment for osteoarthritis in alternative medicine. It is used both locally, in the area of the affected joint, and on the meridians of the body to restore the balance of the Bad Kan base and the body as a whole.
This procedure has a comprehensive effect: improves blood circulation, stimulates blood flow, activates and accelerates the recovery and renewal of connective tissue, improves the properties and normalizes the volume of synovial lubrication, 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 improve the functioning of this organ and activate collagen synthesis in the body.
Influence on the bioactive points of the kidneys helps improve blood circulation in the lower body in gonarthrosis, coxarthrosis and other arthrosis of the legs.
Acupressure.
Strong point pressure improves local circulation, increases blood flow, accelerates metabolic processes and tissue regeneration, eliminates muscle tension and spasms. Acupressure on the body's meridians (Ku-nye) increases the body's overall energy level.
Phytotherapy.
For arthrosis, various herbal medicines are prescribed that accelerate metabolism, increase the level of body heat, accelerate recovery processes in the body, have an anti-inflammatory effect and improve the functioning of the liver and kidneys.
Tools.
Hirudotherapy, stone therapy, manual therapy and shock wave therapy are used as aids.
Hirudotherapy has an anti-inflammatory effect and improves blood circulation.
Hot stone therapy increases body heat levels.
Shock wave therapy (SWT) improves local blood circulation, accelerates healing and recovery of the joint.
With the help of manual therapy, the doctor relieves the painful joint, increases range of motion and mobility.
Diet for osteoarthritis
Warming and hot meals are indicated for osteoarthritis.
Warming foods such as fish, lamb, poultry, seafood, pumpkin, liver, nuts, as well as garlic, onions, ghee and sesame oil are recommended.
To increase the energy value of food, you should definitely consume spices (ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, 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 and chilled drinks, and reduce the consumption of cooling foods such as sugar, butter, milk and dairy products, confectionery, citrus fruits, raw vegetables and leafy salads, semolina and legumes.
Prevention of osteoarthritis
To prevent osteoarthritis, you should avoid factors that cause an imbalance in the basis of Bad Kan: cooling diet, a sedentary lifestyle (physical inactivity), exposure to cold, moisture.
Warming nutrition, physical activity, especially walking, outdoor play and physiotherapy exercises are helpful.
Frequently asked questions about osteoarthritis
Are vitamin complexes useful for osteoarthritis?
Vitamin complexes affect metabolic processes in general. But they have no specific, preventive or therapeutic effect on joint diseases. To maintain general health and body balance, vitamins in food are sufficient, provided proper nutrition is provided.
Is there always inflammation in osteoarthritis?
No, not always. Osteoarthritis can accompany arthritis, but inflammation is secondary. Therefore, the use of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) in osteoarthritis does not always help and is often pointless.
Is heat good for joints?
Warming up for osteoarthritis helps improve blood circulation and is generally beneficial. But only if there is no acute inflammatory process. For arthritis, thermal procedures and warming are contraindicated.
How long does the treatment of osteoarthritis last?
Normally, a course of treatment in a rehabilitation clinic consists of 10 - 15 complex sessions, performed every other day, and lasts 21 - 30 days. After this there is a break of 6 months. Six months later, an examination is conducted, on the basis of which it is decided to conduct a second course of treatment to improve and consolidate the results.