It is not difficult to treat osteoarthritis of the 1st degree of the knee joint if the symptoms are detected in time and consult a doctor. It is a destructive disease that affects the cartilage, causing it to collapse. It has 4 stages of development, the first of which is the initial one. As it progresses, the disease leads to disorders of the musculoskeletal system and to complete cessation of joint mobility.
Causes of inflammation
The following factors are responsible for the appearance and development of gonarthrosis:
- metabolic disorders in the body, excess joint fluid in the knee;
- overweight, which puts pressure on the limbs and provokes cartilage wear;
- past infectious diseases of the joints, inflammation, arthritis;
- bruises, dislocations, fractures, complications after surgery;
- genetic predisposition.
Osteoarthritis occurs in adulthood (after 45). However, there are many cases where young people under the age of 30 have been exposed to the disease. The reasons for the "rejuvenation" of the disease can be excessive physical activity, overexertion, injury. Lack of vitamins and minerals in the diet also contributes to the development of degenerative changes in the knee joint.
Symptoms: how to find out?
Grade 1 osteoarthritis of the knee has its own characteristics:
- slight pain during activity, prolonged walking and running, stopping pain at rest;
- poor joint mobility, difficulty moving;
- knee flexion during flexion and extension.
Waking up in the morning is often accompanied by mild swelling and stiffness in the joint, symptoms that subside during the day. By evening, the pain may worsen and the appearance of swelling will add to the symptoms. Pain in pain also occurs due to changes in weather and sudden changes in pressure. Weather sensitivity is a common but optional symptom of gonarthrosis. The initial stage of the disease is characterized by narrowing of the joint spaces, softening of the cartilaginous tissue of the knee.
Complications
Ignoring the symptoms and lack of treatment provokes the transition of the disease from the first to the second. In the acute phase, impaired circulation turns the swelling into inflammation, which complicates further therapy. The nature of the increasing pain also changes: the painful sensations turn into tingling.
Diagnostics
According to the test results, the presence of an inflammatory process can be determined.
Prescribed by your doctor and includes three stages:
- knee examination;
- referral for analysis;
- X-ray transmission.
It is quite difficult to recognize the disease in the early stages. She has no pronounced symptoms that are often overlooked.
Consultation with a doctor may confirm or deny a preliminary diagnosis. Gonoarthritis cannot be completely cured; it is only possible to slow down the development of the disease and reduce the discomfort that interferes with a full life.
Treatment of 1st degree osteoarthritis
Massage procedures
In the early stages of the disease, the manual method is an effective and useful solution in the fight against gonarthrosis. Kneading the affected area improves blood circulation and eliminates swelling. Completion of the full course can minimize the manifestations of symptoms, strengthen cartilage tissue. Knee joint massage can be done by the patient's relatives or by himself. However, it is recommended that you consult a specialist for a better result.
Medicines
Destructive changes in the legs cause a lot of inconvenience and interfere with a full life. To relieve pain and eliminate inflammation, the doctor prescribes chondroprotectors, which prevent the destruction of cartilage and gradually restore its integrity.
Taking non-steroidal drugs will relieve pain and swelling well, but these drugs are not suitable for treatment. Ointments and gels improve the nutrition and metabolism of the joints, making them comfortable and effective to use.
Exercise therapy for osteoarthritis of the 1st degree of the knee joint
It is recommended not to strain the joint without consulting a specialist. The physiotherapist will choose the optimal exercises based on the symptoms and the degree of the disease. Exercise therapy is used in the initial stages and in the absence of pain. The acute phase sometimes requires wearing a knee brace, the bandage fixes the joint in a passive position, limiting mobility and relieving stress on cartilage.
Traditional medicine
The use of hot compresses is not recommended for inflammatory processes, as excess heat in the knee causes purulent complications.
The recipe of folk remedies is varied and includes anesthetic infusions and anti-inflammatory rubbing.
Cabbage, birch and burdock leaves relieve puffiness, and honey massage nourishes the affected area with nutrients.
A compress of apple cider vinegar diluted with turpentine should be applied to the knee and wrapped overnight, additionally wrapping the affected area with a warm towel.
Methods of prevention
You can prevent the development of gonarthrosis by following a few rules:
- do not overcool joints;
- watch your weight, don't overeat;
- dose of physical activity;
- participate in gymnastic exercises;
- Treat injuries in a timely manner.
It is recommended to change the diet by excluding from the menu foods with excess cholesterol, flour products, pastries. Reduce salt intake. Avoiding injuries is also important to prevent knee disease. At the first signs of an inflammatory process in the cartilage tissues you should immediately consult a doctor to begin timely treatment of the disease.