Arthritis of the joints. Causes, types, symptoms and diagnosis

Inflammatory ailments that are accompanied by constant pain in the joints are called arthritis. Essentially, arthritis is a disease that causes thinning of joint cartilage, changes in ligaments and joint capsule. If the disease is not treated, the process worsens, leading to joint deformation.

The following human joints are most susceptible to developing arthritis:

• Phalanges of the fingers and hands, most common;
• Knee and elbow joints;
• Feet.

The disease predominantly affects women of various ages, in men, arthritis appears much less frequently. There are cases when even children suffer from arthritis, so the disease is relevant and requires detailed analysis: causes, symptoms, types and methods of treatment. It is also worth paying special attention to the prevention of the disease, because no one is immune from the manifestation of a particular disease.

Types of Arthritis

So, before moving on to considering the types of disease, it is worth paying special attention to the question: “What is the difference between arthritis and arthrosis?” What arthritis is is already known - it is an inflammatory process in the joints. The cause of inflammation of human joints is predominantly a third-party infection that comes from the external environment. But arthrosis refers to the processes of joint degeneration, which mainly arise as a result of the aging of the body. Thus, answering the question: “What is the difference between arthritis and arthrosis?”, it is worth noting that the first disease affects people of all ages from young to elderly, and the second is formed exclusively in old age. Knowing the differences between these similar diseases, let’s begin to consider the types of arthritis:

1. Infectious or purulent. The cause of inflammation is damage to joint tissues by infections that have entered the body. The infectious type, in turn, is divided into primary and secondary symptoms of the disease. The primary occurs due to infection through a wound (for example, on the knee joint), and the second due to infection through the blood.
2. Rheumatoid. It is formed due to the predominance of infectious and allergic diseases. This type is more dangerous than the first, as it often develops into chronic inflammation joints. If rheumatoid arthritis is left untreated, the patient may experience difficulty walking.
3. Juvenile. This type predominantly occurs in children under 16 years of age. Unfortunately, the etiology of the disease is unknown to date, but has serious consequences: difficulty walking and disability in children. It was revealed that juvenile malaise is formed due to damage by the immune system to “its” healthy tissues. Why is that? Can't even answer experienced doctor, but there is a diagnosis and every year the number of cases is growing.
4. Reactive. The main factor in the development of the disease is infection, which penetrates mainly through reproductive system. In men this type The disease occurs more often than in women.

Each type of arthritis has its own main reasons for its formation, which are worth mentioning.

Causes of Arthritis

The disease arthritis has been studied for hundreds of centuries, but the exact causes of its formation are still unknown. Doctors only highlight the main factors that can lead to the development of the disease. This could be an allergy, metabolic disorder, deficiency nervous system and other infectious diseases.

The result of all the above reasons is the development of arthritis to varying degrees. If the disease is not treated promptly, the patient may remain disabled for life.

Symptoms

The symptoms of arthritis and arthrosis have almost the same manifestations, so it is important to pay attention to the patient’s age. When considering the characteristics of arthritis symptoms, it is important to note that the main sign of joint inflammation is the sensation of pain in one or more joints. If a person feels pain in one joint, then the disease is called monoarthritis, and if there are multiple joint lesions, it is called.

It is also worth knowing that pain in the joints when moving does not occur in the initial stages, but at the height of it. Below we will consider in more detail the symptoms according to the stages of manifestation of the disease. The main symptoms of the disease are the following ailments:

• weakness of the body and, possibly, an increase in body temperature with an infectious form;
• dull or sharp aching pain;
• the appearance of swelling;
• difficulty walking;
• redness and fever on the skin at the site of the disease;
• sometimes there is chills and pain throughout the body.

Severe pain is also accompanied by spread throughout the body, which causes lack of sleep and central nervous system disorders. The patient becomes irritable, weakened, loses his appetite and significantly decreases body weight.

Important! The use of ointments other than as prescribed by a doctor is strictly prohibited. If you experience joint pain, it is important to immediately see a doctor and undergo an examination.

Arthritis occurs in four stages, and we’ll talk about the symptoms of each.

Symptoms in stages

The symptoms of arthritis differ in stages by the manifestations of pain and the aggravation of pathological processes. So, if the disease develops into a complicated form, then the symptoms will be more noticeable. Let's look at all four stages of arthritis.

First stage

The initial stage, which is characterized by the absence of symptoms of the disease. A person may feel only slight weakness when walking or doing physical activity. The initial stage is characterized by the following features:

1. Inactivity of fingers and hands. There is a feeling of their numbness, although in fact there is more behind this. serious illness. Inactivity often manifests itself in the morning, when it is difficult for a person to get out of bed and perform basic morning activities.
2. If there is a phenomenon where it is difficult for a person to put on everyday shoes, and at the same time there is pain in the ankle joint, then the cause is hidden in the disease arthritis.
3. With infectious arthritis, a person may experience symptoms of pain already at the initial stage and mainly at night. During the day, the pain goes away and the joints feel tired.
4. Pain in the shoulders or knee joint. Often these phenomena are easy character and appear only periodically.
5. The initial stages of arthritis are easily detected in childhood, because, first of all, children experience fatigue and pain when performing various physical exercises.

At the initial stage of the disease and in people under 60 years of age, treatment is absolutely painless and does not require various types of surgical interventions.

Second phase

At this stage, the development of pathologies begins, which are characterized by expressions in the form of erosions of bone tissue. Thinning of the bone tissue occurs and increased pain. Already at this stage, more and more often people are admitted to the inpatient department to identify the disease.

The second stage is characterized by the following symptoms:

1. Joint pain, swelling and difficulty in manipulating affected organs.
2. At the second stage, the source of the disease manifests itself in the form of redness of the skin around the joint. The pain occurs periodically, but with a constant increase.
3. Pain in the knee joint radiates to the foot or top part legs, so diagnosis sometimes has complications.
4. The second stage is also characterized by decreased joint mobility. Any movement causes acute pain.

Third stage

At this stage, the symptoms intensify and become acute. The following symptoms are typical:

1. Obvious deformation of the affected joints.
2. The patient is unable to perform independent movements if the joints of the lower extremities are affected.
3. The patient cannot perform basic tasks: brush teeth, wash, eat, etc. Damage to the hands occurs symmetrically.
4. The feeling of acute pain does not go away even in a state of complete rest. At night, a person wakes up during exacerbations of pain.
5. This stage is characterized by the fact that the patient is assigned the first group of disability.

Although the third stage is characterized by a person’s disability, if the patient is not treated even now, then the most difficult stage occurs.

Fourth stage

The main feature of this stage is that all destructive processes can no longer be corrected. Symptoms have the following signs:

1. If the ankle joint is affected, the person is no longer able to move independently.
2. An fusion forms in the joint, which in medicine is called ankylosis.
3. Symptoms of pain do not disappear and are almost constant. The patient practically eats painkillers.

All of the above symptoms are very dangerous and although the disease is not fatal, it guarantees disability for a person, therefore only timely action can eliminate this problem with the joints.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of the patient is very important, since before taking appropriate treatment measures, it is necessary to conduct an examination of the patient. Diagnosis of arthritis includes:

• general examination of the patient and interview;
• laboratory research;
• instrumental examination.

To determine accurate diagnosis, the patient will have to visit more than one doctor. After the survey, all doctors will refer the patient for tests.

1. , through which the quantitative composition is revealed. At increased rate we can safely say the presence of arthritis.
2. carried out to determine fibrinogen. If the analysis shows an increased composition, then this indicates the presence of an inflammatory process.
3. Immunological indicators reflect the picture of the composition of antibodies in the blood.

Instrumental examination methods include:

• X-ray;
• CT scan;
• Arthroscopy;
• Arthro- and Myelophagia.

All of the listed instrumental methods are not used for each patient; the doctor individually refers them to certain types of examinations. Often one or two types of examinations are enough to make an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment for arthritis begins only after an accurate diagnosis. When the cause and stage of the disease are determined, in an individual case the doctor prescribes treatment. Arthritis can be treated with the following medications:

1. Antibiotics. Used in cases of infectious arthritis.
2. Anti-inflammatory drugs. Symptoms of inflammation are relieved with the help of special ointments (Diclofenac or Spazmalgon).
3. Chondroprotectors. Drugs that help stop the process of destruction of bone and cartilage tissue. These include: Artron, Hondrex, Teraflex.
4. Treatment is carried out using therapy, which includes: massage, ultrasound irradiation, heating.
5. For arthritis, the exercise therapy procedure, which consists of gymnastic exercises and a visit to the pool, will be useful.
6. Treatment must be carried out in compliance with a diet. A diet for arthritis allows you to eliminate the accumulation of fats and eat exclusively fortified foods.
7. If the case of the disease is advanced, and treatment with medication does not produce results, then a decision is made on surgical intervention.
8. It is also possible to treat arthritis using folk remedies. This includes the procedure of compresses and rubbing in ointments of various natural origins: blue clay, herbs, mustard. Before using traditional medicine, you should consult a doctor.

Thus, the treatment of arthritis consists of immediately taking appropriate measures in order to prevent the progression of the disease. What needs to be done to prevent the development of the disease?

Prevention

To ensure that the disease does not have a chance to manifest itself, the following measures must be taken:

1. Don't run infectious diseases and try to prevent them from becoming chronic.
2. Play sports: running, jumping, swimming, cycling and gymnastics.
3. Monitor your weight; even a slight increase in weight can cause arthritis. A diet for arthritis will not only help you get rid of the disease, but also correct its shape.
4. Refuse everyone bad habits, including from eating salt and sugar.
5. To prevent arthritis, you can eat 2 cloves of garlic daily.

Just five steps to a healthy, arthritis-free future.

- This inflammatory disease joints. With arthritis, a person experiences pain during active movements, flexion and extension, as well as when walking if the joints of the legs are inflamed. Sometimes the skin over the sore joint begins to turn red, and a local increase in temperature or general fever is observed.

Let's take a closer look at what kind of disease this is, what causes and first signs are characteristic of it, and also what is the best way to treat arthritis in adults.

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a collective term for inflammatory diseases of the joints, the main symptom of which is pain in the joints, especially when walking or using physical force.

The disease is caused by disorders metabolic processes inside the joint, resulting in an increase in the synovial membrane, leading to tissue proliferation and destruction of cartilage. Excess fluid in the joint leads to inflammation and pain and fever.

Signs of arthritis may appear gradually, starting simply with a feeling of slight swelling and discomfort in the crook of the joint or phalanges of the fingers, and then developing sharp pain and other symptoms.

Kinds

Arthritis is divided according to localization:

• monoarthritis - arthritis of one joint;
• oligoarthritis (two or three affected areas);
• polyarthritis - arthritis of more than 3 joints.

Based on the nature of the changes that occur, arthritis is divided into:

• inflammatory, which are characterized by the presence of inflammation,
• degenerative, when first there is a malnutrition of the cartilage, dystrophy, change appearance of the affected joint with subsequent deformation.

Arthritis can be acute or chronic:

• Acute arthritis develops rapidly, accompanied by severe pain and inflammation in the tissues, which disappear after 2-3 days.
• Chronic arthritis progresses gradually, slowly becoming a serious disease.

Due to the origin of the disease:

• Infectious or purulent arthritis. Manifests itself under the influence of a certain infection.
• Rheumatoid arthritis. It is formed due to the predominance of infectious and allergic diseases. This type is more dangerous than the first, as it often develops into chronic inflammation. If rheumatoid arthritis is left untreated, the patient may experience difficulty walking.
• Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. This type predominantly occurs in children under 16 years of age. Unfortunately, the etiology of the disease is unknown to date, but has serious consequences: difficulty walking and disability in children.
• Reactive. Reactive arthritis manifests itself mainly due to changes in immunity in people who have a hereditary disposition to insufficient utilization of antigen complexes. Reactive arthritis sometimes occurs as a consequence of many infections. Most often it is a consequence of previous enterocolitis.
• Gouty arthritis. Usually one joint is affected, an attack of pain usually develops at night or in the early morning hours, in the absence of treatment, attacks are repeated more often and last longer, and the level of uric acid in the blood is elevated.
• Osteoarthritis. Joints fail within a few years. A characteristic symptom is a crunching sound in the fingers or toes. It is dangerous because it can hit the spine. They may begin to swell and hurt.
• Traumatic. Appears when there are open and closed injuries joints and in case of regularly occurring minor injuries.
• Rheumatism is chronic illness connective tissue with predominant damage to the heart and joints. Its etiology is also unclear, as are the causes of the development of rheumatoid arthritis;
• Arthrosis is a form of arthritis that affects only the joints and periarticular tissues, without affecting other organs.

Causes

The clear and precise cause of arthritis this moment is not defined, but doctors have identified some factors that can trigger the development of arthritis. Let's look at them:

• infections caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses;
• allergies;
• metabolic disease;
• injury;
• lack of vitamins (vitaminosis);
• insufficient intake of nutrients into the body
• diseases of the nervous system;
• disturbances in the functioning of the immune system;
• poor nutrition, incl. consumption of alcoholic beverages;
• overweight;
• disturbances in the functioning of the endocrine gland;
• genetic predisposition;
• insect bites, such as wasps, bees, etc.;
• hypothermia (hypothermia);
• some diseases: tuberculosis, gout, gonorrhea.

Such factors cause a rather serious blow to the joints, which over time can cause the development of arthritis. In addition, among the main circumstances that cause the formation of an inflammatory process in the connecting elements are excessive physical activity, injuries, metabolic disorders, and diseases of the nervous system.

Hereditary pathologies of joints and bones, smoking and excess weight also contribute to the appearance of arthritis.

Arthritis symptoms

The leading symptom of arthritis is pain in one or more joints. At first they are weak and have practically no effect on a person’s ordinary life. Over time, the pain syndrome increases: the pain becomes wave-like, intensifying with movement, at night and closer to the morning. The intensity of pain varies from mild to very strong, severely complicating any movement.

Secondary symptoms:

• morning stiffness,
• swelling,
• skin redness,
• increase in local temperature in the area of ​​inflammation,
• deterioration of the patient's motor activity,
• restriction of his mobility,
• formation of persistent joint deformities.

It is important to remember that the first signs of arthritis are pain. At the initial stages they are weakly expressed, in acute period especially pronounced, and when chronic arthritis can change (weakly expressed to strongly expressed, and vice versa). As mentioned above, signs may vary for different types of disease.

Types of Arthritis	Symptoms
Reactive	joint pain, redness, swelling, limited mobility, inflammation of the eyes: - redness of the eyes, burning sensation in the eyes, lacrimation; inflammation urinary tract: urethritis - pain, burning or stinging when urinating.
Rheumatoid	When the joints are affected symmetrically, dense nodules form at the bends. During the period of remission, discomfort is felt mainly in the morning and practically disappears by the afternoon. Exacerbations are accompanied by fever, numbness of the extremities, pain when inhaling, inflammation of the lymph nodes and salivary glands, photophobia and pain in the eyes.
Infectious	Characterized by: a sharp increase in temperature; chills; headaches; weakness; swelling of periarticular tissues. The type of infection can be determined using tests.
Gout attack	In most cases, the first joint of the big toe is affected, although the disease can occur in the knee and elbow. The site of inflammation becomes red, swollen and very painful.
Psoriatic	Distinctive Features psoriatic arthritis are affected by: small joints of fingers and toes, asymmetry of the lesion (unlike rheumatoid arthritis), Often the skin over the diseased joint acquires a purplish-bluish color (if the joints of the fingers are affected, swelling often develops, covering the entire finger - a “sausage-shaped finger”).
Osteoarthritis	manifests itself in the fact that the joints become ill very slowly and gradually as the disease progresses. Also characteristic feature is a crunch. Both the limbs and the spinal column are affected;
Traumatic arthritis	develops as osteoarthritis. The symptoms are the same - pain, swelling and crunching in the place where the inflammatory process began.

Degrees of the disease

The symptoms of arthritis differ in stages by the manifestations of pain and the aggravation of pathological processes. So, if the disease develops into a complicated form, then the symptoms will be more noticeable. Let's look at all four stages of arthritis:

1st degree

The disease does not manifest itself clinically, but X-rays of the joints show the first signs of inflammation. Sometimes there is a slight stiffness of movement and periodic pain during physical activity.

2nd degree arthritis

The progressive inflammatory process leads to thinning of the tissues of the articular structures and erosion of the heads of the bones. Swelling appears in the area of ​​the affected joints; A local increase in temperature and redness of the skin are often observed, movements are accompanied by crunching.

3rd degree

The third degree of the disease is characterized by the following symptoms:

• X-ray examination shows severe deformity;
• Often a person at this stage is assigned a disability;
• Mobility is limited, it is difficult for the patient to move if damaged Bottom part torso;
• Hand movements are performed with great difficulty. It becomes difficult for the patient to perform even basic self-care actions. The hands are affected symmetrically;
• Pain haunts a person even when he is at rest;
• Because of muscle spasm caused by pain, the limbs are fixed in the wrong position. This ultimately leads to even greater deformation of the joints.

Arthritis 4 degrees

Leads to almost complete immobility of damaged joints, with severe round-the-clock pain. It is impossible to move independently. Negative changes in the bones are already becoming irreversible. When the knees are affected, muscle contractures form.

Complications

Ignoring the symptoms of arthritis can lead to serious complications that provoke other diseases:

• Diseases of internal organs.
• Heart failure.
• Damage to soft tissues.
• Tendon ruptures.
• Dislocation of the spine.
• Numbness of arms and legs.

Although arthritis is a common condition that most people experience, its treatment should be taken seriously. Timely diagnosis and treatment will help maintain flexibility and mobility of the joints, which will make it possible to lead an active lifestyle even in old age.

Diagnostics

Although signs of joint inflammation are clearly visible even to a non-specialist, it is not possible to accurately determine the form and stage of arthritis, as well as develop the correct treatment strategy, based solely on history and physical examination.

Diagnosis of arthritis includes:

• general and biochemical blood test;
• Analysis of urine;
• X-rays can determine the condition of the bones and identify changes caused by arthritis;
• computed tomography to assess the condition of soft tissues;
• magnetic - resonance tomography helps to more clearly examine the condition of bone structures, as well as soft tissues;
• isotope scanning of the skeleton;
• Ultrasound helps determine the extent of damage to large joints;
• analysis of synovial fluid helps to identify inflammatory agents, especially in infectious arthritis, and choose an adequate treatment method;
• arthroscopy - endoscopic method, which involves introducing a special sensor into the joint cavity to study their condition;
• arthrography determines the condition of the cartilage and soft tissues that surround the joint;
• myelography evaluates the condition spinal cord, spine and its roots, is used in conjunction with a computed tomograph.

Arthritis treatment

The sooner you worry about treatment, the greater the benefit will be. The first stages of arthritis already affect the joints, and with proper treatment it is quite possible to slow down the process. Special exercise therapy exercises have been developed and are prescribed during the period of improvement so that the muscles develop flexibility. Effective medications are also prescribed.

Treatment for arthritis depends on the stage and form of the disease. Therefore, at the first signs, be sure to contact a specialist and do not self-medicate.

Medicines for arthritis

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Methods involving the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are mandatory for the treatment of any diseases associated with the musculoskeletal system. Commonly prescribed drugs include:

• Ortofen;
• Diclofenac;
• Ibuprofen;
• Imdomethacin;
• Ketoprofen;
• Acetylsalicylic acid.

The choice of these drugs depends on individual characteristics human body, age, type of disease, presence of diseases that prohibit the use of non-steroidal drugs.

• Painkillers for external use

This group of drugs is prescribed against pain syndrome for diseases of the musculoskeletal system. They are applied topically to the skin above the joint. The main advantage of this method of application is that the components of the drug are absorbed directly into the area of ​​​​the affected tissue, bypassing the path through gastrointestinal tract.

Examples of such drugs: dollit-cream, apisatron, butadione, bengay, voltaren, fastum, emulgel, diclofenac acry-ointment, etc.

Universal scheme drug treatment arthritis looks like this:

• Prescription of intra-articular injections, which consist of hormonal anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Taking medications to relieve muscle spasms.
• If the cause of arthritis is frequent stress, then antidepressants are prescribed.
• Injections of painkillers.
• Prescription of drugs that protect the gastrointestinal tract from the irritating effects of anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Taking vitamins.

How to treat arthritis without medications?

Reducing stress on diseased joints:

• selection orthopedic shoes with comfortable sole;
• weight loss;
• use of knee pads, instep supports, canes when walking;
• a complex of therapeutic and health-improving physical education, which can be performed in different starting positions and in water.

Gymnastics should not cause discomfort or pain. Squats and exercises with bent knees should be avoided. A visit to the pool is recommended.

Physiotherapeutic procedures:

• heat treatment;
• magnetic therapy for joints;
• ultrasound;
• massage;
• hydrotherapy;
• acupuncture;
• laser therapy;
• electrical pulse stimulation of muscles.

To prescribe any physiotherapeutic procedures, the patient must have no contraindications. The patient must forever get rid of bad habits and drinking coffee in large quantities.

Surgical treatment

When damage to some or all of the joint tissues cannot be treated with pills, injections, ointments or physical therapy, various surgical methods are used:

• arthroscopic synovectomy – removal of a fragment of the synovial membrane;
• cartilage transplantation - cartilage tissue is taken from a healthy joint, grown in the laboratory and planted in the damaged one;
• joint replacement with a prosthesis;
• implantation of a metal spacer into the joint, simulating the articular surface.

Invasive methods of treating arthritis also include punctures and washing of the joint cavity with various drugs.

Diet

The goal pursued therapeutic nutrition with arthritis, is the normalization of the immune response, weakening inflammatory reactions and restoration of full range of motion of the affected joint.

Nutrition for arthritis is selected by your doctor and depends on:

• forms of the disease;
• degree of joint damage;
• concomitant diseases;
• severity of clinical manifestations.

Regardless of the type of arthritis, general rules nutrition for recovery:

• food should be low-calorie, the diet is aimed at not gaining excess weight putting stress on the joints - it is necessary to remove extra pounds;
• it is necessary to balance the intake of all necessary components;
• Food should be steamed; it can be boiled or stewed, but not fried;
• to restore the damaged structure of the joint, it is recommended to eat food from boiled bones (jellied meat), which you can eat as much as you like, they contain natural chondroprotectors that restore cartilage tissue, but such dishes cannot be consumed if;
• You can’t eat fatty meat - fats can only be plant origin;
• freshly squeezed juices from fruits, beets and carrots help enrich the body with vitamins, remove toxins and waste from it;
• You should give up alcohol, strong coffee and tea, limit the use of pickles, seasonings and hot spices, except ginger and turmeric.

In total, nutrition for arthritis corresponds to the standard diet (general option) or treatment tables according to Pevzner No. 15, 10, 6, which are prescribed for different types of arthritis. The energy value of the diet is 2170-2400 kilocalories per day, and the nutrient content corresponds to the following scheme:

• proteins - 85-90g, of which 45-50g are animal proteins;
• fats – 70-80g, of which 25-30g are vegetable fats;
• carbohydrates - 300-330g, of which no more than 30-40g complex sugars.

If you are overweight, a hypocaloric diet is indicated, the energy value of which is 1340-1550 kilocalories per day.

Folk remedies

Before using traditional methods for arthritis, be sure to consult with your doctor.

1. Birch leaves (2.5 teaspoons), stinging nettle leaves (2.5 teaspoons), tricolor violet herb (2.5 teaspoons). Take the infusion 1/2 cup 4 times a day before meals.
2. Lubricate the knee with honey, apply mustard plaster and tie it. Hold until a burning sensation appears, then remove the mustard plaster, and wrap the knee with honey, as with a compress, and keep it overnight.
3. Mash buttercup flowers and apply to knee for 2 hours, then remove and wrap the sore spot overnight.
4. Grate radish or horseradish on a fine grater. Apply the paste or the juice itself to the painful area. Leave for 40 minutes. The course for arthritis is 10 procedures every other day.
5. When salts are deposited in the joint, the head onions to cut in half. Pour one drop of tar into the middle of each half and apply to the sore spot.
6. Beat the yolk with apple cider vinegar. Apply the application until dry. Use several times a week for a month.
7. Garden purslane for arthritis. Grind the grass. Mix with cold water, in the ratio of one spoon per glass of liquid. Place on the fire and boil for ten minutes. Cover the container with a towel and place in a warm place for two hours. Then strain. Take the finished infusion three times a day, one tablespoon.

Prevention

Prevention of joints should be taken care of by people who are at risk due to their professional activity. And also for patients:

• with heredity to arthritis;
• survivors of viral diseases;

You can reduce the risk of developing pathology if you adhere to several rules. The attending physician is obliged to talk about preventive measures, especially for elderly people. Prevention of joint arthritis includes:

• weight control;
• avoiding injuries while walking and playing sports;
• protecting joints from excessive stress.

If you feel pain returning or notice redness or swelling, consult your doctor. Timely request for medical care will prevent severe destruction of joints.

Arthritis refers to a whole group of joint diseases. The causes of the disease are hidden in numerous factors, including tissue malnutrition and infection. But, regardless of the nature of the disease, fighting it is quite possible. In case of pathology, it is important not only to relieve unbearable pain, but also to direct your efforts to fight the source that provoked arthritis of the joints. Treatment of arthritis with folk remedies combines both of these areas. By enhancing the effects of drug therapy with anti-inflammatory teas, rubs, and baths, you will not leave a single chance for arthritis.

Brief description of the pathology

What is arthritis? This is an extremely unpleasant disease characterized by inflammatory process in the joints. Pathology can develop spontaneously. In this case we are talking about acute form diseases. But sometimes it attacks the joints gradually. Such a clinic indicates chronic

Treatment of arthritis with folk remedies will bring tangible benefits if it is started at the first manifestations of the disease. In addition, it is important not to forget about drug therapy. The fight against arthritis must be comprehensive. If the diagnosis is made at a late stage, then therapy can slow down the destruction of the joints.

Characteristic symptoms

This is a very common illness. According to statistics, almost 80% of the population has arthritis of the joints.

Symptoms of pathology:

• swelling, redness of the joint;
• articulation deformation;
• loss of his mobility;
• fever;
• severe and frequent pain in the joint, especially in the morning;
• powerlessness, weakness;
• insomnia;
• aching pain appears periodically;
• constant fatigue;
• increase in temperature (sometimes).

It is important to pay close attention to such manifestations. If in the morning you notice swelling of the joints, and their development takes a certain time, you feel some stiffness and pain, then there is every reason to suspect arthritis. Treatment of joints with folk remedies will stop the destruction process. Therefore, with these symptoms, do not delay time. See your doctor as soon as possible.

Folk remedies

The question often arises: can ancient recipes really help in the fight against such a disease as arthritis of the joints? Treatment of arthritis with folk remedies has been practiced since ancient times. Such methods made it possible to fight the disease when chemical drugs were not yet known.

Therefore, if the pathology is detected in the initial stages and has not progressed to an advanced form, then such therapy will provide excellent results. However, do not forget that you should start with a visit to your doctor. After all, it is necessary to find out the reasons why arthritis of the joints developed. Treatment of arthritis with folk remedies will bring a long-awaited effect if it is aimed at eliminating the source of development of the disease.

That is why select effective ancient recipes only with your doctor.

Compress therapy

Treatment of knee arthritis with folk remedies includes several tasks. It is aimed at eliminating pain, relieving inflammation, reducing swelling and stimulating the restoration of cartilage tissue.

The most common compresses are:

1. Cabbage leaf. Use only fresh leaves. Lubricate its surface with honey. Place the sheet on the knee joint. Insulate the compress on top and secure it firmly. This remedy will have a beneficial effect on cartilage tissue, reduce the inflammatory process, and relieve swelling. It is recommended to apply the compress overnight. It should be repeated daily until the swelling and pain disappear.
2. This is one of the most powerful components that allows you to effectively fight pathology. Treatment of arthritis of the knee joint with folk remedies based on blue clay provides antitumor effects, improves metabolism, and enriches tissues with minerals and trace elements. Making such a compress is very easy. Dilute blue clay in warm water to the consistency of homemade sour cream. Lubricate your sore knee with this mixture. The compress must be covered with polyethylene and insulated. The duration of this event is 3-4 hours. Be sure to lubricate the skin with oil or moisturizer after the procedure. Repeat the event the next day. However, remember that you should only use new clay each time. The material used is no longer suitable. The number of such procedures depends on the patient’s condition. Therefore, it is best to discuss this issue with your doctor.
3. Raw potatoes. This product is a powerful pain reliever. In addition, it has wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties. For knee arthritis, take a medium-sized raw tuber. Grind it up. The resulting paste should be applied to the damaged joint overnight. Repeat the procedure every evening until the painful discomfort disappears completely.

The above compresses can be used not only for the knee. They can be used on any joint damaged by arthritis.

Effective rubbing

Homemade ointments will have an excellent pain-relieving effect. However, the peculiarity of such therapy is the need to carry out all recommended activities regularly.

The following recipes will be useful in the fight against pathology:

1. Honey rub. It is used most often if the patient is diagnosed. Treatment with folk remedies containing honey allows one to achieve an excellent analgesic effect. For this product you will need the following ingredients: honey, alcohol, glycerin, iodine. Take all ingredients in equal quantities. After mixing the above ingredients, leave the mixture for 3 hours. The rub is used externally only. Take a piece of cotton wool or gauze and soak it in the mixture. Then apply it to the affected joint. The surface must be moistened generously with this composition in the direction from bottom to top. Apply the product not only to the damaged area, but also to the surrounding areas. This will significantly improve blood circulation in the thigh and speed up the healing process.
2. Rubbing with Analgin tablets. To prepare the product you will need regular alcohol (300 ml), camphor alcohol (1 bottle - 10 ml), iodine (10 ml). To such components you should add crushed Analgin tablets - 10 pcs. After thoroughly mixing the composition, leave it for 21 days in a dark place. The product should be used as a rub daily.
3. Peppermint ointment. This is another one effective recipe, which will alleviate the suffering of the patient with a pathology such as arthritis of the hip joint. Treatment with folk remedies should begin as soon as an unpleasant pathology is identified. This way you can count on the effectiveness of therapy. To prepare the ointment, you need to chop 50 g of fresh mint. Crushed eucalyptus leaves (50 g) are added to this component. Add aloe juice to the composition - 50 ml. Stir the ointment until it has a homogeneous consistency. It is recommended to lubricate the hip joint with this mixture three times a day.
4. Rubbing for the initial stage of pathology. Prepare the following ingredients: plain water, vodka, vinegar (6%), ammonia. Take these components in equal proportions. Soak a cotton swab in this mixture. Rub on the sore joint. Most often, this remedy is used to treat the knee. No less therapeutic effect it will bring if arthritis of the ankle joint is detected. Treatment with folk remedies should be supplemented with massage. IN in this case It is recommended that after applying the rub, massage the affected area for several minutes. This rub is quite effective for treating hand arthritis.

Baths against pathology

Treatment of arthritis of the hand joints with folk remedies includes all of the above recipes. In addition, baths will have a beneficial effect. A wide variety of medicinal infusions are used for them.

The following recipes will significantly alleviate the patient’s painful condition:

1. Pine needles. You will need about 300 g of this component. Fill the pine needles with water - 500 ml. Bring the mixture to a boil. Then let the broth brew for 4 hours in a warm place. After straining, pour the mixture into the bath. The duration of the procedure is 20 minutes. It is recommended to take such baths every other day. To achieve maximum effectiveness of this therapy, you will need to complete the entire course. It usually consists of 12-15 baths.
2. A mixture of herbs. If elbow joint, treatment with folk remedies can be done as follows. Take 200 g of sage and chamomile leaves. Pour boiling water over this mixture - 0.5 liters. Leave the product for about 2 hours. Strain the infusion and pour into the bath. The water temperature should be 38 degrees. Take a bath for 20 minutes. It is recommended to repeat this procedure every other day. The therapeutic course is 15 baths.
3. Fir oil. For patients diagnosed with ankle arthritis, treatment with folk remedies using this component will bring significant relief. Such baths can also be performed if the hands are affected by the disease. Pour warm water into the basin (its temperature should reach 39 degrees). Add 5-6 drops of fir oil to the liquid. Immerse your feet or hands in the water. The event lasts 10-15 minutes. After the procedure, rub the pre-prepared mixture into the affected joints. It consists of fir oil diluted with neutral cosmetic oil (1:1). It is recommended to repeat such baths 10-12 times. If the disease has become chronic, then the event should be carried out regularly for 1 year.

Products for internal use

Such prescriptions are prescribed to people who have arthritis of the jaw joint. Treatment with folk remedies allows you to relieve the symptoms of inflammation, reduce pain, and alleviate the clinical course of the pathology. However, do not forget that all the remedies described below can be used only after consultation with your doctor.

Such recipes will also benefit those diagnosed with arthritis of the mandibular joint.

Treatment with folk remedies:

1. Anti-inflammatory collection. Take black elderberry flowers (20 g), birch leaves (80 g), willow bark (100 g). Grind the ingredients and mix them. Take 4-5 tbsp of this composition. l. Pour 1 liter of boiling water. The product is infused for 2-3 hours. It is recommended to use this “medicine” 2-3 times a day, half a glass (100 ml). It is advisable to carry out this procedure before eating. This remedy will provide an excellent anti-inflammatory effect. In addition, it has analgesic and antibacterial properties.
2. Burdock root. You will need to grind the main ingredient. Take 1 tbsp. l. burdock root powder and pour boiling water (400 ml). Leave this product to infuse for 2-3 hours. After straining, the “medicine” can be consumed. It is recommended to take 1-2 tbsp 3-4 times a day. l. infusion. This product will provide an excellent analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect.
3. Yarrow. This plant has many beneficial effects on the body. Among them, the anti-inflammatory effect is especially pronounced. To prepare the infusion, add dry crushed herb (2 tablespoons) to a glass of boiling water (200 ml). Be sure to cool and strain the infusion. The “medicine” should be consumed 3-4 times a day, 50-100 ml.
4. Propolis. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. You will need propolis (100 g) poured with vodka (500 ml). Infuse the “medicine” at normal temperature in a dark place for 2-3 weeks. Then strain it. It is recommended to take 10-20 drops twice a day.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Traditional treatment for this pathology includes means for internal use and outdoor use.

For this disease, the following recipes are considered the most effective:

1. Cowberry. Pour boiling water (0.5 l) over the leaves of the plant (2 tablespoons). Boil the product for about 15 minutes. Then cool and strain. Take 0.5 cups orally three times a day.
2. Pine buds. Take 1 tbsp. l. such a component. Pour boiling water (200 ml) into it. The product should be infused for about 2 hours. Then strain it. Take the resulting “medicine” three times a day, 1 tbsp. l.
3. Red rowan. Pour boiling water over 1 tbsp. l. the above ingredient. Be sure to wrap the composition and leave it to infuse for 4 hours. The product is used three times a day, 0.5 cups.

We should not forget about external methods of treating such an ailment as joint arthritis. The following folk remedies are recommended:

1. Straw bath. You will need 200 g of the main ingredient. Fill the straw with hot water - 5 liters. Boil the mixture for 30 minutes. Cool the broth slightly. When it reaches a temperature of 36-37 degrees, immerse your arthritic legs or arms in it. The event lasts half an hour. Repeat the procedure every other day. A total of 5-6 baths are recommended.
2. Wraps. Significant relief with rheumatoid arthritis will bring the following compresses. In the spring, wrap the affected joints with green coltsfoot leaves. In the summer, use burdock for this procedure. And in winter, cabbage leaves will become your assistant. This wrap is best done overnight.
3. Clay. Swelling and pain caused by the disease will be perfectly eliminated by this product. Dilute the clay to the consistency of thick sour cream. Apply this composition, about 2 cm thick, to the affected joint. Wrap the top with cellophane and a warm scarf. The compress must be kept for about 3 hours. It is best to use green or blue clay for rheumatoid arthritis.

Foot treatment

The use of sea salt is quite effective. It should not be forgotten that for such a pathology as arthritis of the joints of the foot, treatment with folk remedies can be used by any of the methods described above.

So, how to use sea salt to combat pathology? It is recommended to use it for massage. It is simple, safe, but at the same time very effective way arthritis therapy.

You need to heat the sea salt in a frying pan. Then pour it onto a cloth or into a regular basin. Start stepping on it with your bare feet before it cools down. The duration of this massage is 5 minutes.

Most folk remedies can be used to treat any form of arthritis. However, some types of therapy will provide better results for certain types of illness.

1. Pathology of the hip joint. Warm herbal baths can significantly reduce unpleasant pain. To combat such arthritis, use decoctions of the following ingredients: oak bark, celandine, chamomile, calamus root, pine cones and young pine needles.
2. Knee-joint. It is recommended to treat the disease with rubbing and applications. The following remedy is considered quite effective. Mix turpentine (100 g) and the same amount of vodka. Add olive (sesame, sunflower) oil to the mixture - 2-3 tbsp. l. Add a few drops of camphor oil to the composition. Soak gauze in the resulting product and wrap it around the joint. Cover with polyethylene and insulate. It is advisable to apply such a compress at night. It is recommended to repeat this event 6 days in a row. The knee pain will go away.
3. Arthritis of the shoulder joint. Treatment with folk remedies allows you to get rid of excruciating pain. Best effect will provide alcohol rubbing. It is recommended to use the following plants: burdock roots, hazel or dandelion leaves. A combination of these ingredients can also be used. Any of the plants should be filled with alcohol. The ratio is as follows: 150 g of raw material per 500 ml of alcohol. The poured mixture is kept for 14 days in a dark place. The liquid is used for rubbing.
4. Ankle joint. It is recommended to steam it in a special bath. For this procedure, you need to add mustard (1 tbsp) and cinnamon (1 tsp) to warm water (per 1 liter).
5. Arthritis of the foot. A compress of burdock or young fern leaves will bring relief. Do the procedure at night. It is necessary to wrap the affected foot with several leaves of the plant. Then pull a cotton sock over your foot. Put a wool one on top.
6. Pathology of the temporomandibular joint. A variety of applications and compresses will help. Doctors recommend using therapeutic mud. Paraffin compresses will provide an excellent effect. Such activities will relieve pain in the joint and reduce inflammation.
7. Arthritis of the jaw joint. Warming applications are recommended for this pathology. The most suitable components for these activities are mustard, turpentine, and pine resin. A vinegar compress will help reduce inflammation. Apple cider vinegar is best suited for this procedure.

However, do not forget that before using any folk remedy, you should definitely consult a doctor.

Arthritis leads to severe joint deformation, causing painful sensations in the extremities, inflammation, damage to internal organs. The article will tell you how to properly treat arthritis of the joints in order to achieve long-term remission and improve the patient’s overall well-being.

Treatment methods

The basis of treating arthritis is identifying and eliminating the cause that triggered the development of inflammation in the joints. The sooner a patient seeks help from a qualified doctor, the higher the chances of recovery.

Attention!

Diagnostic measures include visual examination of joints, laboratory and instrumental studies.

Specialists who can be involved in therapy for arthritis are a traumatologist, rheumatologist, phthisiatrician, infectious disease specialist, and dermatologist. The fight against arthritis is carried out comprehensively, with the help of drug therapy, therapeutic exercises, physiotherapy, normalization of nutrition, non-traditional methods of treatment.

Drug treatment

Pharmacology for the treatment of arthritis offers various medications. These are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that are used to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints, reduce the effect of toxic substances that are released during the inflammatory process.

It must be remembered that in addition to the benefits, pharmacological products can cause harm to the body, and therefore the dosage and course of treatment should be chosen only by the attending physician. Side effects a number of drugs:

• Intestinal disorder;
• Kidney or heart failure;
• Reduced blood clotting;
• Nervous system disorder;
• Allergic reactions.

• Diclofenac;
• Indomethacin;
• Nimesulide;
• Etodolac;
• Meloxicam;
• Celecoxib.

These medications only relieve symptoms, but do not eliminate the cause of the disease. Taken in combination with other medications. However, it is worth remembering that they are not used during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Chondroprotectors help restore cartilage tissue. They are well tolerated and have virtually no contraindications.

Popular drugs in this category for the treatment of arthritis:

• Teraflex;
• Don;
• Structum;
• Rumalog;
• Artra;
• Chondroxide.

In order to eliminate the painful syndrome, painkillers for external use are used - creams, gels, ointments. They are quickly absorbed into the skin, accumulate in damaged tissues, and do not enter the intestines.

Can be used at home after doctor's recommendation Dolgit-cream, Apizatron, Butadione, Bengay, Voltaren, Fastum, Emulgel, Diclofenac acry-ointment. Contraindications include individual intolerance to the components of the drug.

The group is also used medicines to relax muscles during pain. They increase joint mobility and relieve swelling. Specialists prescribe Sirdalud, Mydocalm, Baclofen.

And to restore the mineral metabolism of bone tissue, mineral and vitamin supplements are used - Berocca, Vitrum calcium, Biovital, Materna, Teravit, Calcimin.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapists know how to treat arthritis. This is an indispensable component complex therapy. Some of them are prescribed in the acute stage of the disease, others - during remission.

In the acute phase of arthritis, the following are used:

• Ultraviolet - irradiation of the affected joints several times a day;
• Electrophoresis of glucocorticoids – course duration is 12 procedures.

In the subacute stage the following are used:

• DMV therapy for the area of ​​inflamed joints and adrenal glands;
• Laser neon irradiation of the damaged joint area;
• Pulsed low-intensity magnetic therapy;
• Light therapy using a Bioptron lamp.

In the proliferative stage of joint arthritis, general cryotherapy using an air-nitrogen mixture at a temperature of minus 160 degrees, as well as naphthalene therapy, can be used. The duration of the health course is 15 procedures.

Exercise therapy

Complex methods of treating arthritis necessarily include therapeutic exercises, which improve joint mobility and prevent the formation of ankylosis and connective adhesions in them.

Exercise therapy is used every day, for at least 15-30 minutes, but only after the symptoms of acute inflammation have been relieved. One of effective exercises when treating arthritis - walking on your knees, 400 steps a day.

Of all sports, the most effective is swimming; the intensity of the load is determined by the degree of immersion in water. The temperature in the pool also has a positive effect on the joints: if it is warm, the pain threshold is significantly reduced.

Massage

After performing therapeutic exercises, it is useful to conduct a massage course. This procedure will improve local blood circulation, relieve swelling, and reduce the intensity of the inflammatory process.

On a note!

Physical impact on damaged areas helps improve metabolic processes and accelerates the removal of waste and toxins from the body.

Each session lasts at least 20 minutes and requires careful treatment of the joint area and surrounding soft tissues. The techniques used are stroking, rubbing, vibration, kneading with fingertips, squeezing with the edge of the palm, and lightly shaking the limb.

Nutrition for joint arthritis

To reduce the intensity of pain, it is important to normalize nutrition by following a special diet that helps reduce acidity in the body.

It is necessary to exclude canned foods, fats, oils, spicy, salty and sour foods from the diet, introduce more vegetables and fruits, cereals and grain bread are healthy. Fermented milk products should not be fatty.

When treating arthritis, it is recommended to include in the diet fish fat, trout, salmon, mineral water, freshly squeezed juices, foods with polyunsaturated fatty acids from the Omega 3 group. Remove strong coffee, tea, alcohol, meat, fish, mushroom broths, and all types of legumes.

Interesting!

To get rid of arthritis forever, you need to follow a balanced, low-calorie diet, high in natural vitamins and minerals.

Traditional methods

Numerous positive reviews about the treatment of arthritis indicate the effectiveness of the application. traditional methods. They have a positive effect on the patient’s condition as part of complex therapy.

Before use folk recipes You should consult your doctor about the duration of the course and dosage, identify possible contraindications and avoid allergic reactions.

Traditional treatment for arthritis:

• Baths with sea salt - dissolve sea salt in warm water, immerse the damaged areas for 20 minutes, then lubricate with ointment with a soothing effect;
• Onion compresses - chop the onion, apply the resulting porridge to the damaged area, repeat the procedure several times during the day until the composition dries completely;
• Homemade ointment for pain - mix 200 g of salt and 100 g of dry mustard, add melted paraffin and mix the composition, send to a warm place overnight, lubricate the joints in the morning and evening, secure with a bandage;
• Decoctions from bay leaf– an excellent medicine for eliminating puffiness and swelling, just pour 2 liters of boiling water over a package of laurel, keep in a water bath for 5 minutes and drink the decoction before bed, 200 ml, the duration of the treatment course is 10 days.

Treatment for arthritis is performed using a warm bath. To prepare it you need to take a few drops essential oil sandalwood, calendula, St. John's wort, diluted with warm water. Immerse the damaged joints for 20 minutes, then lubricate with anti-inflammatory ointment.

Adult patients can use alcohol tinctures. To do this, you need to prepare 1 liter of vodka and 100 g of wrestler root. Grind the product, add liquid and put in a cool place for 14 days, then strain and add 2 tsp to tea. every day.

Dry compresses (heated sea salt in fabric bags) effectively help with joint pain. Apply to the sore joint before going to bed. The maximum course is 3 weeks.

Nutritional supplements

When treating arthritis of the joints, it can be included in the diet. nutritional supplements, vitamin and mineral complexes containing the following elements:

• Selenium is an antioxidant for removing free radicals from the body;
• Magnesium – to strengthen cartilage fibers;
• Vitamin C – to strengthen the body’s defenses;
• Pantothenic acid – to stabilize the acid balance in the body;
• Iron – to eliminate anemia deficiency;
• Thymus gland extracts – to improve immunity.

When treating arthritis, it is recommended to take herbal preparations - curcumin, as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, ginger - a universal natural medicine that reduces acidity, feverfew - excellent remedy against fever, arthritis and migraine.

Surgical treatment

If conservative methods of treating arthritis do not give a positive result, severe deformation of the joints is observed, pain intensifies, and other clinical symptoms disease, then the progressive process can only be stopped using surgical methods:

• Removal of a fragment of the synovial membrane;
• Cartilage segment transplantation;
• Joint replacement with a prosthesis;
• Implantation of a metal support into a joint, as an imitation of the articular surface.

Invasive methods of treating arthritis include punctures and washing of the joint cavity with various medicines. The procedure is carried out at stages 3-4 of the development of rheumatoid arthritis.

The quality of life of every person depends on the health of the musculoskeletal system. What is arthritis? What are the first signs and causes of of this disease? What are the symptoms of arthritis and what is the best way to treat the disease? By learning everything about arthritis, you can effectively combat the problem and protect your health.

What kind of disease

Arthritis is an inflammatory disease of the joints. In the process of pathology, thinning of the cartilage occurs, the structure of the ligaments and capsule is disrupted. If arthritis is not treated effectively, the disease progresses and leads to severe deformity.

Most of all, this joint disease affects the joints on the hands, phalanges of the fingers, elbows, knees and feet. Pathology can develop at any age. There are cases of small children suffering from arthritis. It has been observed that women are more likely to suffer from this disease.

Since this disease of the hands or other joints can occur at any age, it is important to always closely monitor the health of the cartilage tissue and carry out prevention.

Reasons for the development of pathology

Although the disease has been known to scientists for many years, the exact causes of arthritis are unknown. Observation of thousands of patients made it possible to find out which category of the population is most susceptible to the development of pathology.

Possible causes and factors contributing to the problem include the following:

• allergic reactions;
• neurogenic disorders;
• metabolic disorders;
• penetration of infection;
• immune failures;
• constant physical activity;
• type of professional activity associated with constant load on certain groups of joints;
• injuries received;
• presence of extra pounds;
• influence of hereditary factors;
• poor nutrition;
• frequent hypothermia.

The presence of bad habits weakens the entire body. Therefore, people who suffer from alcoholism or smoke are more likely to experience symptoms of the disease than others who strive to lead a healthy lifestyle and moderate degree go in for sports.

Important! Lack of qualified treatment can lead to the development of disability and loss of motor activity.

It is known that arthritis often develops in athletes. The etiology of arthritis in this case is associated with constant increased stress. Mostly, those who engage in weightlifting face this problem. They are the ones who are most susceptible to stress on the phalanges of the fingers and hands and more often struggle with the resulting sprains and fatigue.

Classification

To cure arthritis, you need to be able to distinguish between types of the disease. Each type of pathology has its own distinctive features, causes of development and approach to treatment.

If a person has only one joint showing signs of inflammation, doctors talk about monoarthritis. Unfortunately, the disease often affects a group of joints at once.

The disease may be:

• sharp;
• chronic.

In the acute course of the pathology, the signs of arthritis develop at lightning speed, the pain quickly intensifies and brings discomfort to the person. If symptoms appear slowly, doctors talk about a chronic form of arthritis.

The following types of joint arthritis are distinguished:

To understand the classification, you need to know how each type of arthritis manifests itself.

Features of an infectious disease

When the disease is infectious, the cause of the disease is penetration of infection into the joint. As a rule, this occurs through an open wound, sometimes even a very small one, in the immediate vicinity of the joint capsule.

An infection that gets inside causes an inflammatory process. Less commonly, the pathogen is introduced into the joint by hematogenous route. That is, another organ is already suffering from infection. However, through the general bloodstream, the pathogenic microorganism penetrates the joint, where it provokes the development of arthritis. It is possible to develop serous arthritis with fluid accumulation in the joint cavity.

Infectious peripheral arthritis has the following symptoms:

• a sharp rise in temperature;
• in children, nausea and vomiting;
• headache;
• muscle aches;
• swelling in the joint;
• pain;
• changing its shape;
• a feeling of increased warmth in the area of ​​the affected joint.

Inflammatory arthritis is often diagnosed after pathologies such as streptococcus, infection with chlamydia, gonorrhea and other viral or bacterial infections. The disease occurs in people suffering from cancer, as well as diabetes.

Features of rheumatoid arthritis

One of severe forms diseases. Unfortunately, it is difficult to cure. In approximately 70% of cases of the disease, even with adequate treatment, disability occurs.

Rheumatoid arthritis belongs to the group of systemic pathologies. This autoimmune disease often affects not only the joints, but also the connective tissue in different parts body. Often the pathology affects internal organs.

If the pathology affects the joints, more often they become inflamed symmetrically. They become swollen and hurt at any time of the day, but especially at night. At first, moderate physical activity brings relief, but over time the method loses its effectiveness. Initially, small joints are affected, but as the disease progresses, larger joints become involved.

In addition to pain, the patient feels weakness and fatigue. His appetite decreases. The following signs are characteristic of moments of exacerbation:

• numbness of hands and feet;
• temperature increase;
• photophobia;
• chest pain when breathing.

The reasons for the development of destructive arthritis of this type are not fully understood. The disease most often affects middle-aged people, and among patients there are three times more women than men.

Features of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

Pathology also belongs to the group autoimmune diseases with poorly understood etiology. This type of arthritis develops in young people, usually under 16 years of age. Often the disease affects internal organs, which can lead to disability and even death of the patient.

The juvenile type of arthritis is characterized by a tendency to constant progression. Therapy is poorly amenable. It differs in its chronic form.

Causes and clinic of gouty type of disease

This type of pathology develops due to deposits of uric acid, which accumulates in the joint cavity. Most often, the joints of the lower extremities are affected by the disease.

Uric acid is a substance that is not processed by the human body and is not excreted. Even getting it into the blood does not allow the acid to dissolve. As a result, it crystallizes and accumulates near the joints, which leads to the development of pain, swelling and other symptoms.

Pain and swelling are most often localized to the joint of the big toe. Less commonly, the pathology affects the elbow or knee bend. This area becomes red, swollen and very painful when touched. The period of onset of symptoms is usually short-lived. They can last from several hours to 2-3 days. They occur more often at night after consuming large amounts of salt or meat products.

This type of pathology more often affects men than women and develops over the age of 65 years. Problems may arise in patients with kidney dysfunction, alcoholism and hypertension.

Features of osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a severe form of pathology, dangerous because bones and joints are not capable of recovery. Tissue destruction occurs gradually. Initially, only the inflammatory process is noted. Over time, deposits form on the joints, leading to deformation changes.

This type of disease most often affects those people who constantly overload certain groups of joints. The risk group also includes smokers and obese people. A distinctive symptom of such arthritis is a characteristic crunch in the joints.

What is post-traumatic arthritis

This form of pathology develops after a joint injury. It is noteworthy that arthritis may not develop immediately. It may seem that there are no consequences of the injury, and the tissues have completely recovered.

The first symptoms of the disease may appear several years later. First, inflammation and pain appear, and then the destruction of bone tissue begins. You can only protect yourself by preventing injuries and treating them effectively.

Features of rheumatism

The causes of this pathology have not been studied. The disease is characterized by a chronic course. It affects not only joints, but also internal organs, including the heart.

It is difficult to treat. It is impossible to reverse pathological processes; it is only possible to stop the progression of the disease.

Features of arthrosis

Arthrosis is often associated not so much with the inflammatory process in the joint, but with age-related changes. The pathological process begins with destructive changes in the cartilage tissue, and only then does inflammation occur.

This type of pathology is very common. Although to fatal outcome the disease is extremely rare, physical activity patients is significantly reduced.

Stages of arthritis

The disease arthritis has its own stages of development. The earlier the disease can be diagnosed, the more effective the treatment will be.

There are 4 degrees and each has its own characteristics.

First stage

Arthritis of the 1st degree is manifested by the following symptoms:

• slight stiffness of movement;
• slight swelling of the lower extremities, due to which the usual shoes become small;
• pain in the shoulder or knee joints quickly passes, which makes it difficult to make a diagnosis.

At this stage, patients do not feel severe pain, so they can attribute the discomfort to fatigue or age-related changes. However, if habitual simple actions are difficult, it is important to pay close attention to this.

You can identify a problem in a child by carefully observing his behavior. It happens that previously active children for some reason refuse active games, or even fall while walking.

Arthritis can be accurately diagnosed only after X-ray examination. The disease detected at this initial stage has favorable outcome and is successfully cured.

Second stage

At this stage pathological changes affect bone tissue, since the cartilage tissue is almost completely thinned.

Arthritis 2 degrees is characterized by the following symptoms:

• crunching in the joints of the fingers;
• significant swelling of the affected joints;
• hot skin in sore areas;
• increased pain in the morning;
• with inflammation of the hip joint, the pain may radiate to the knee;
• if affected shoulder joints, it is difficult for the patient to reach the upper shelves and take something.

As shown medical statistics, it is at this stage that most patients begin treatment. Therapy is long-term, but properly selected drugs can stop the progression of the pathology and improve a person’s quality of life.

Third stage

X-ray signs of arthritis at this stage are very pronounced. If therapy has not been started before this point, disability often occurs.

Arthritis upper limbs leads to the fact that a person cannot make even simple movements, for example, combing his hair or washing himself. Simple actions cause extreme pain. When the lower extremities are affected, any movement becomes difficult.

The pain does not go away when a person stops doing any activity. The joints become increasingly deformed. The treatment has a weak effect, but to some extent alleviates the patient's condition.

Fourth stage

At the fourth stage of arthritis, irreversible processes begin in the joints. The patient loses the ability to move independently. Fusion points are formed inside the joints, which makes them immobile.

At this stage of the pathology, pain is constant and severe. To make life easier, patients take painkillers.

Diagnosis of the disease

To diagnose arthritis, the following tests are most often performed:

• X-ray in several projections;
• Ultrasound of the inflamed joint;
• MRI and CT.

There are other diagnostic procedures used for arthritis. However, to accurately establish a diagnosis, these measures are quite sufficient.

In order to identify the infection that has affected the joint in infectious arthritis, a blood test is performed. Immunological tests are carried out to identify autoimmune pathologies and rheumatoid arthritis.

Principles of treatment

Once the diagnosis of arthritis is completed and the diagnosis is established, the doctor prescribes the appropriate treatment.

Important! Using gels and creams without a doctor's prescription can be dangerous and will only make the problem worse!

Therapy directly depends on what type of arthritis has been detected. If the problem was caused by an infection, the following is prescribed:

• antibiotics;
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
• chondroprotectors, the purpose of which is to restore cartilage tissue.

In acute cases of arthritis, hospitalization may be suggested. It is better to immobilize the inflamed joint for some time.

In cases where conservative treatment methods are ineffective, joint replacement surgery is performed.

It is important to follow a diet:

• minimize salt intake;
• reduce consumption of fats and meat;
• give up alcohol;
• reduce the amount of legumes and sugar.

Controlling your weight will help reduce stress on your joints and speed up your recovery.

Forecast

If treatment is chosen correctly and started in a timely manner, the pathology may disappear completely. In cases where therapy has been applied for more than late stages arthritis, the use of medications and compliance with the doctor’s recommendations provide the following improvements:

• the intensity of pain decreases;
• endurance improves;
• joint mobility is restored;
• the functioning of the muscular system is normalized.

Therapeutic and preventive physical education allows you to quickly recover from an illness. However, any exercises should be agreed with the attending physician and carried out only during the period of remission. During acute course illness, any stress is contraindicated.

Preventive measures

Prevention of arthritis consists of following these recommendations:

• treat all infections promptly;
• engage in moderate exercise;
• control body weight;
• do not abuse salt, sugar and alcohol.

The earlier treatment for arthritis is started, the greater the chance of full recovery. The disease should not be neglected, and when the first alarming symptoms appear, you should consult a doctor.

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