The knee joint suffers from various disorders most often. One of the most mobile joints is subject to heavy loads throughout life. As a result, in mature age arthrosis develops. The disease is chronic and progressive, requiring complex therapy to maintain limb mobility and well-being. Treatment necessarily includes external remedies that significantly alleviate the condition. Let us consider in detail what ointments are used for arthrosis knee joint, their varieties, rules of use, effectiveness.
Features of external treatment of knees
Gonarthrosis is a pathology of the knee joint, in which destruction of cartilage tissue occurs with subsequent deformation of the leg. The disease is chronic in nature with periodic exacerbations.
Accompanied by a whole set of unpleasant symptoms:
- pain during movement and at rest;
- poor limb mobility;
- the formation of bone spurs that pinch nerve fibers;
- swelling, hyperemia, local inflammation;
- muscle spasms and stagnation in the knee.
Without special complex therapy, rapid degradation of the joint cavity and immobilization of the limb occurs. Along with medications systemic action local medications are prescribed. Their function is primarily to relieve painful symptoms, which is important for maintaining activity and well-being.
Arthrosis is one of the most common joint pathologies, most often diagnosed in the knee area
External remedies for gonarthrosis include:
- ointments;
- cream;
- gels;
- rubbing mixtures.
They contain both synthetic and natural components. Buy ready-made product You can buy it at the pharmacy or prepare it yourself.
Important: ointments for the treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint are not able to cure the pathology; they are used exclusively as an auxiliary symptomatic remedy.
The benefits of ointment for gonarthrosis
Local remedies in the form of ointments for the treatment of knee arthrosis have a number of advantages and useful properties:
- reduce the intensity of inflammation;
- fight swelling and redness;
- improve microcirculation and blood flow;
- reduce painful symptoms;
- eliminate muscle hypertonicity, increase their elasticity;
- activate metabolic processes in tissues;
- slow down the destruction of cartilage;
- have some disinfectant and antiseptic effect;
- warm and distract from uncomfortable sensations.
Treatment of arthrosis involves A complex approach including the use of medications Despite the locality of the effect, which is to some extent a disadvantage, ointments have clear advantages over systemic drugs:
- penetrate directly into the affected area;
- do not provide negative impact on internal organs;
- rarely cause adverse reactions;
- a life-saving remedy in the presence of serious illnesses;
- available in free sale on an over-the-counter basis;
- easy to use.
Regular use medicinal ointments increases the effectiveness of oral medications and speeds up recovery. But this does not mean that they can be used constantly and uncontrollably. Only a correctly selected medication after consultation with a doctor guarantees a positive result.
Types of ointments for arthrosis of the knee joint with names
There is no universal ointment for gonarthrosis. The choice of drug is made depending on clinical picture and stages of the disease.
IN different cases Application shown:
- anti-inflammatory ointments - reduce intensity inflammatory process V acute period, relieve moderate pain, remove swelling, redness, hyperemia, elevated temperature(“Diclofenac”, “Ortofen”, “Indomethacin”, “Ketorol”, “Dolobene”, “Nise”);
- warming - improve microcirculation and cellular nutrition of cartilage, stimulate blood flow in tissues, reduce spasms and painful sensations, act as a distraction (“Gevkamen”, “Viprosal”, “Apizatron”, “Espol”);
- chondroprotective – promote the regeneration of cartilage tissue, trigger restoration processes in the joint (“Chondroitin”, “Teraflex M”, “Arthro-Active”, “Shark fat”, “CONDROnova”).
Ointments that can alleviate the condition of a patient with arthrosis are available in all pharmacies and are relatively inexpensive Pharmacy drugs
According to the active substance, all ointments and creams for arthrosis of the knee joint are divided into several groups.
The pharmacy chain contains drugs based on:
- non-hormonal (non-steroidal) anti-inflammatory components - “Diklak”, “Ketonal”, “Nimulid”, “Fastum”, “Dolgit”;
- salicylic acid and its derivatives - “Efkamon”, “Doloxen Fast”, “Bom-Benge”, “Kamfart”;
- capsaicin (alkaloid capsicum) – “Espol”, “Kapsin”, “Nicoflex”;
- chondroitin and glucosamine - “Chondrolone”, “Chondroitin”, “Chondoxide”, “Teraflex M”;
- natural ingredients of plant, animal, mineral origin (homeopathic) - Vishnevsky ointment, “Viprosal V”, “Ungapiven”, “Apizatron”, “Alflutop”, “Gevkamen”, “Traumel S”.
External products with different pharmacological composition have different therapeutic effect. They are available over-the-counter, but to achieve a quick positive effect, you should first consult your doctor.
Rating of the most effective and popular means
Ointment for arthrosis of the knees great amount. Many are similar in composition or therapeutic effect. Some act as analogues and substitutes for each other. This complicates the choice and at the same time significantly simplifies it in case of individual contraindications and intolerance to some components.
This ointment is known to almost every person who has had to deal with joint diseases - "Diclofenac";
- "Ketorol";
- "Ortofen";
- "Nise."
"Diclofenac"
Anti-inflammatory drug from the group of non-steroids with the same name active substance. The use of Diclofenac for arthrosis of the knee joint involves applying a thin layer of gel to the affected area up to 4 times a day.
Regular use helps:
- reducing the inflammatory process;
- pain relief;
- eliminating redness and swelling;
- moderate antirheumatic effect.
Indicated in the treatment of arthritic pathologies of the shoulder, elbow, hip, and ankle joints. Contraindicated in case of allergies to the composition, peptic ulcer, pregnancy. Rarely, local skin reactions may occur.
"Ketorol"
Gel based on ketorolac from the group of NSAIDs with pronounced analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Mechanism therapeutic action consists in blocking the synthesis of prostaglandins, which contribute to the conduction of pain impulses and disruption of thermoregulation. The dimethyl sulfoxide included in the composition enhances the penetration of the drug deep into the affected tissues.
It fights pain very well, but, like other ointments, it does not have any clinically significant effect directly on the causes of arthrosis. Direct readings:
- osteoarthritis;
- inflammation of the synovial membrane (synovitis);
- damage to joints and soft tissues.
Apply 3-4 times a day to clean skin. Ketorol injections are also available, which can quickly relieve knee pain. The duration of therapy is determined by the doctor individually.
"Ortofen"
Ointment for arthritis and arthrosis of the knee joint with diclofenac sodium. Copes well with unpleasant joint symptoms:
- reduces pain in a calm and mobile state;
- eliminates morning stiffness and stiffness of the limb;
- increases range of motion;
- relieves swelling of the knee;
With prolonged use it activates protein metabolism in cartilage, has some antiallergic effect.
Dosage regimen: apply 4 g of ointment three times a day to the painful area for 14 days. Do not use during pregnancy, erosive gastrointestinal pathologies, asthma, or in childhood.
Most common in cream/gel format "Nise"
Combined drug in gel form made in India. The composition contains four active ingredients:
- nimesulide (10 mg in 1 g of gel);
- methyl salicylate (100 mg);
- menthol (50 mg);
- capsaicin (0.25 mg).
"Nise" is non-steroidal drug new generation with strong analgesic, anti-edematous, anti-inflammatory properties. It has a moderate local irritating effect and increases local blood flow.
Combined ointments for osteoarthritis of the knee joint
External products with a combined composition are highly effective. The interaction of several active components gives a stronger and longer-lasting therapeutic result.
"Dolobene"
Main active substance– heparin, which promotes healing, prevents blood clots and degeneration connective tissue. Other ingredients - dimethyl sulfoxide and dexpanthenol - eliminate inflammation, swelling, pain, and accelerate regeneration processes. The gel is used for rubbing into the knee joint for arthrosis, as well as for the phonophoresis procedure.
The drug Dolobene belongs to the group of direct-acting anticoagulants and has pronounced analgesic, anti-edematous, anti-inflammatory, regenerating and anti-thrombotic properties "Viprosal V"
Warming, locally irritating, analgesic ointment from viper venom, camphor, salicylic acid, turpentine oil. Indicated not only for gonarthrosis, but also for joint and muscle pain in the arm, foot, and back. Apply in the standard way twice a day until relief occurs. Increased sensitivity can cause dizziness, skin rashes, and headaches.
"Teraflex M"
Cream with glucosamine and chondroitin has a chondroprotective effect, protecting cartilage from destruction. Camphor and mint oil improve blood circulation and act as weak analgesics. Rub into the knee 2-3 times a day for a month. There are no strict contraindications or side effects.
Multicomponent ointments are effective in complex therapy of arthrosis as auxiliary symptomatic agents of local action.
Home Recipes for Knees
Traditional medicine offers many options for ointments for gonarthrosis based on simple and natural ingredients.
The ointment penetrates the skin, affects the foci of the pathological process, eliminates or significantly reduces pain, spasms and inflammation
- honey ointment – mix 50 g of honey with 5 g of mumiyo, rub the knee before going to bed every day;
- clay ointment - dilute dry white clay with water to a paste consistency, heat, add a pinch of red pepper, apply to the kneecap area, rinse after cooling;
- paraffin balm - 3 tbsp. l. liquid paraffin, add a pinch of salt and mustard powder, mix and put in the refrigerator for 10-12 hours, lubricate overnight;
- herbal cream - 15 g each of dried motherwort, St. John's wort, chamomile, yarrow, corn silk mixed with eucalyptus oil, rub the knee until relief occurs.
Homemade ointments are relatively harmless, but they should not be used without consulting your doctor.
Rules for dosing and use of ointments for arthrosis of the knee joint
The method of using ointments for gonarthrosis is quite simple. To achieve maximum therapeutic effect simple rules should be followed:
- first conduct a skin sensitivity test to the composition of the prescribed drug;
- Before the procedure, rinse the knee with warm water and dry;
- squeeze about 2-3 cm of cream (3-5 g) onto your finger and apply to the knee;
- Rub into the skin with light massage movements;
- do not cover or wrap your leg;
- frequency of application – 2-4 times a day, depending on the specifics of the product;
- in the presence of allergies, skin lesions, dermatoses local treatment not carried out;
- Warming ointments should not be used during periods of acute inflammation.
Treatment with ointments is carried out approximately the same, but some drugs have their own peculiarities. It is recommended to read the instructions before the procedure.
Unlike tablets with similar action, the ointment is characterized by a much lower tendency to provoke various side effects Duration of treatment
The duration of local therapy depends on the severity clinical manifestations and type of medicine:
- It is not advisable to use drugs from the NSAID group for more than 2 weeks, especially if there is no improvement;
- drugs with a distracting and irritating effect are used on average for 7-10 days; a long course is not provided due to the risk negative influence on the condition of soft tissues and ligaments;
- chondroprotectors require long-term therapy (4-6 weeks);
- home treatment can also be carried out for a long time until a lasting result occurs.
Any ointment is prescribed by a doctor, and accordingly, the regimen is selected individually.
When to expect results from local therapy
The effect of ointments for arthrosis of the knee occurs in different ways. The result is influenced by many factors: the age of the patient, the type of medication, the complexity of the condition, the susceptibility of the body.
Standard external agents:
- reduce inflammatory manifestations and pain 20-50 minutes after application;
- bring lasting relief after 5-7 days of regular use;
- give some healing effect after 2-4 weeks of continuous use, this applies to a greater extent to chondroprotectors (cartilage tissue is restored very slowly).
It is important to understand that a miraculous recovery will not occur after local treatment. Arthrosis – systemic disease, requiring complex therapy with medications, physiotherapy, and additional measures.
To increase the effectiveness of using ointments, a specialist may recommend using them in combination with physiotherapy General contraindications
Despite the local effect and the absence of a significant systemic effect on the body, ointments have a number of contraindications.
- hypersensitivity to the composition;
- history of allergic reactions (rashes, angioedema, anaphylactic shock);
- wounds, cracks, erosions, damage to the skin in the knee area;
- dermatological pathologies;
- severe renal, liver failure;
- ulcerative-erosive diseases of the gastrointestinal tract in the acute period.
Pregnant and lactating women and the elderly should approach treatment with caution. Many drugs are prohibited for use in pediatric practice.
Side effects
Adverse reactions to local therapy with ointments are not common, mainly due to violations of medical prescriptions and individual sensitivity.
The most common manifestations:
- skin rash;
- itching and burning at the site of application;
- redness and swelling of soft tissues;
- headache;
- dyspeptic symptoms;
- dizziness;
- weakness.
Overdose phenomena are extremely rare when applied topically In most cases unpleasant symptoms pass on their own. A significant overdose or accidental ingestion of medication requires immediate attention. medical care with symptomatic measures.
Storage conditions for drugs
Rules for storing ointments depend on their composition and purpose. The required information is indicated at the end of each instruction. The shelf life of most external medications is 2-3 years at room temperature (20-25°), in a dark place, in the original packaging. Perishable natural remedies Immediately after preparation or purchase at the pharmacy, they are placed in the refrigerator. Expired medications should not be used. They not only lose medicinal properties, but can be harmful to health.
It is advisable for people with chronic gonarthrosis to always have home medicine cabinet first aid remedy to relieve painful symptoms.
What to choose - homemade or pharmacy ointment
A clear answer to the question is better pharmaceutical product or home-cooked does not exist. It all depends on the individual situation of each individual patient.
Many people constantly buy knee ointments at the pharmacy:
- sold ready-made, no need to waste time and effort on preparation;
- have a quick and targeted effect;
- passed clinical trials;
- recommended by experts.
Traditional treatment has also earned many positive reviews thanks to:
- 100% natural composition;
- minimum side effects and contraindications;
- absence of fakes and falsifications;
- cheap price and availability.
The best option is to try different means and select the ones that suit your personal feelings. But do not forget about the mandatory consultation with a doctor in order to avoid unforeseen complications.
You need to treat knee arthrosis with ointments wisely, following all the rules and medical recommendations. Then the effect will be positive, activity will remain and good health for a long time.
Complex therapy is used to treat deforming diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Ointments for joint arthrosis help to locally relieve pain and inflammation, improve tissue elasticity and slow down the development of the pathological process. They are not prescribed separately; means for external use are not able to completely eliminate the disease.
An ointment is a form of medication used externally. It has a viscous consistency and, depending on its purpose and composition, may have a specific color and smell.
Anti-inflammatory ointments
Joint pain, inflammation, discomfort, local fever - all these are signs of arthrosis. To get rid of these symptoms, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used. The main active ingredients of such ointments (Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Lisinitin, Piroxicam, etc.) help relieve pain, swelling and discomfort as quickly as possible. The duration of therapy depends on the patient’s initial condition, manifestations of the disease, and the presence of contraindications.
Despite the fact that the drugs are commercially available, it is recommended to consult a specialist before use.
Let's look at the most effective anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving gels and ointments for arthrosis.
Nise. Often ointment is prescribed for arthrosis hip joint. Due to the nimesulide content, signs of inflammation quickly disappear. The drug has a light yellowish gel consistency with a specific odor and is used only for external use.
Gel for arthrosis is recommended to be used as prescribed by a doctor. Contraindications include pregnancy and lactation period, age under 7 years, individual intolerance to the components of the drug, violation of the integrity of the skin in the treated area and exacerbation of diseases gastrointestinal tract.
Nise should be rubbed into the sore joint 3-4 times a day until completely absorbed. Without consulting a doctor, it is prohibited to use it for more than 10 days in a row. The cost of packaging is about 200 rubles.
Ortofen is an analgesic and anti-inflammatory ointment, the action of which is based on the substance diclofenac. It cannot be used for compresses; it is recommended to use it 3-4 times a day. Using light massage movements, the medicine is applied to the sore joint; this ointment is often prescribed for... The course of treatment usually lasts 10-14 days depending on the patient's condition.
Ortofen is contraindicated for children, pregnant and lactating women, people with peptic ulcer, allergic asthma, urticaria and hypersensitivity to the substances included in the composition. The price of Ortoferon ointment for arthrosis is about 100 rubles.
Ketorol contains ketorolac tromethamine with a clear analgesic effect, this is the most effective ointment for arthrosis of the knee joint. The product should be applied with gloves 2-4 times a day, carefully distributing it over the affected area. The drug is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation; it should also not be used during exacerbations. skin diseases and intolerance to ointment components.
Treatment is prescribed by a doctor; without consultation, the course duration lasts no more than 10 days. The price of the drug Ketorol varies between 250 rubles.
Dolobene. The action of the drug is based on the substances dimethyl sulfoxide and heparin. It quickly relieves inflammation and pain, eliminates swelling. The course of treatment lasts 7-10 days, with daily application 2-3 times a day. It can be applied under a bandage, leaving the compress on for several hours to enhance the effect.
The light gel texture is quickly absorbed without leaving any marks on the skin. Dolobene should not be applied to patients with severe pathologies. of cardio-vascular system, liver and kidneys, allergic manifestations, during lactation and pregnancy. The cost of ointment for arthrosis Dolobene is 350-450 rubles.
Interesting!
Rarely used to treat arthrosis of the joints hormonal drugs for external use due to low efficiency. Doctors usually recommend injecting corticosteroids into the joint cavity.
Vasodilator ointments
Warming and vasodilating ointments relieve muscle spasms and pain due to increased blood flow in the area of application. Due to the active substances, microcirculation of blood and lymph in tissues improves, stimulating the penetration of beneficial components into the joint and cartilage.
On a note!
Vasodilator ointments are used in combination with other agents that enhance their effect. They should not be used during exacerbation of arthrosis.
Capsicam is a product with a warming and analgesic effect due to camphor, dimethyl sulfoxide and pine needle essential oil in its composition. It is used 2-3 times a day; without consulting a doctor, the duration of treatment should not be more than 10 days.
More often side effects manifest themselves in the form of skin allergic reactions. The ointment should not be used by pregnant and lactating women, children under 7 years of age, on damaged skin, or if there is an individual intolerance. After application, wash your hands thoroughly with soap! Depending on the volume of packaging, the price of the ointment can be 220-300 rubles.
Apizartron is an ointment containing bee venom, produced in Germany. The medicine dilates blood vessels, increasing the flow of oxygen and useful substances to the treated area, relieves swelling and pain, warms up muscles, increases tissue elasticity. Due to its active action, doctors often prescribe ointment for.
Apizartron should not be used for severe forms pathologies of the kidneys and liver, during exacerbation of skin diseases, with oncological tumors and individual intolerance.
The ointment is applied to the skin and left for several minutes until a reaction occurs. Then it is slowly rubbed over the affected area of the skin, after which the affected joint is wrapped in a bandage. Therapy continues until signs of the disease disappear with 2-3 daily applications. The ointment costs about 300 rubles per tube.
Gevkamen contains essential oils menthol, eucalyptus and cloves, resulting in a locally irritating reaction and mild pain relief.
The drug is applied to clean, dry skin, evenly distributed with massage movements 2-3 times a day. Treatment lasts 3-5 days, after which it is necessary to take a break of 2-3 days, then the course can be repeated.
The product must not be used in cases of intolerance or integrity problems. skin. Price Russian ointment Gevkamen approximately 50 rubles.
Traumeel – homeopathic medicine, eliminating signs of joint arthrosis with the help of natural extracts and extracts of arnica, calendula, chamomile and echinacea. Contraindications for use are increased sensitivity to the components, as well as autoimmune diseases, AIDS, HIV infections, tuberculosis and leukemia.
The course of treatment should be prescribed by the doctor individually depending on the patient’s condition. It is allowed to apply compresses with Traumeel ointment. The price for a package of the product can reach 500-600 rubles.
Chondroprotectors in the form of ointments
Chondroprotectors are used to restore cartilage tissue and slow down the development of arthrosis. Their use is especially effective at the initial stage of pathology; the course is prescribed by the attending physician. The ointment for arthrosis should be applied in a course; the effect does not appear immediately, but only when beneficial substances accumulate in the affected tissues. Positive dynamics can be seen several months after completion of the course.
The following drugs are most often prescribed for the regeneration of cartilage tissue:
- Theraflex contains hodroitin and glucosamine, which restore the joint, camphor, which increases blood flow and nutrition in the damaged area, and essential oil peppermint, relieving pain and inflammation. The drug has virtually no contraindications; it cannot be applied to damaged skin or if you are individually intolerant to the composition. The product can be used by children, but only under medical supervision. The price of the ointment is about 400-600 rubles;
- Artra Active is a product with chondroitin and glucosamine. Responsible for the regeneration of cartilage tissue, prevents joint destruction, and stimulates cellular metabolism. Artra arthrosis cream has a dense consistency, but is quickly absorbed. Treatment lasts 1.5-3 months, after about six months the course should be repeated. During therapy, it is necessary to rub the drug into the sore joint twice a day. It is prohibited to use the medicine in patients with individual intolerance to the components of the cream. The price of the package is about 200 rubles;
- Alflutop. Main active ingredients: extract from small sea fish, rich in peptides and amino acids, polysaccharides and minerals. The product reduces pain and restores joint tissue. The medicine has a gel texture and a specific smell, it must be applied to the affected area 2-3 times a day, treatment lasts no more than 3 months. It is unacceptable to use the product on damaged skin and mucous membranes. The cost of an Alflutop tube is about 500-1000 rubles. The ointment is especially good for arthrosis of the knee joint.
Recommendations for the use of ointments for the treatment of arthrosis
To choose an ointment, it is advisable to consult a doctor, and before use, read the instructions yourself. In order not to harm yourself, you must follow some rules for treating arthrosis with ointment or cream:
- Follow storage recommendations. The drugs should be stored in a cool, dark place, observing the expiration date. Expired medications should not be used;
- Distribute the product only over the affected area, avoiding contact with the mucous membrane. If you have wounds, cuts or damaged skin, you should avoid using the ointment. It is best to apply it with gloves, then wash your hands thoroughly;
- Check out the contraindications. Majority medicinal ointments for arthrosis of the joints, it is not recommended to use in case of sensitivity to the active ingredients, in case of renal and liver failure, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
- If any side effects occur, you should consult your doctor immediately.
The complex treatment of coxarthrosis and gonarthrosis always includes ointments, gels and creams. These drugs act locally, due to which they have less negative impact on the body than tablets and injections. Drugs with anti-inflammatory effects help especially well during exacerbation of the disease, warming drugs increase metabolism, activating local immunity, and chondroprotectors protect the affected joint from destruction.
Arthrosis is quite dangerous and serious illness. It is considered chronic and difficult to treat. Complex therapy for the disease includes the use of various creams and ointments that help relieve swelling and reduce pain.
Types of drugs used
To achieve the most lasting therapeutic effect, complex treatment of arthrosis is used. This includes taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, painkillers, chondroprotectors and muscle relaxants. Local treatment with gels and ointments and physiotherapy are used.
Ointments used in the treatment of arthrosis can be divided into 2 large groups:
- Warming and vasodilating, designed to improve the circulation of blood and synovial fluid in the affected joints.
- Anti-inflammatory and pain relievers that help quickly relieve inflammation and swelling of the joints.
You cannot choose an ointment for arthrosis on your own, because... self-medication in many cases aggravates the situation. The attending physician will be able to select the remedy.
Ointment for osteoarthritis cannot completely cure the disease, it only helps speedy recovery and prevents the disease from progressing. These medications have the following properties:
- reduce pain;
- relieve tissue inflammation;
- eliminate muscle spasms;
- warms the joints;
- improve blood circulation in affected joints;
- restore nutrition to cartilage tissue;
- have a good antimicrobial effect.
Vasodilating and warming ointments
Designed to stimulate blood circulation in the affected joint elements. They help remove pain syndrome And muscle spasms. At the same time, the saturation of cellular structures with necessary nutrients is normalized. Such warming agents are used together with other medications that enhance their effect on the joints.
Vasodilating and warming ointments are recommended for long-term use. Their effectiveness directly depends on the active substance. Bee and snake venoms and red pepper have warming properties. Pepper can stimulate blood circulation in affected areas.
There are some features of using such funds:
- cannot be used if you have skin lesions or allergies to some components of the drug;
- use during exacerbations of the disease is strictly prohibited - in this case, the time to start treatment should only be determined by a doctor;
- ointments based on poisons cannot be used for a long time, because this harms the ligamentous apparatus, due to which the ligaments can be greatly stretched;
- It is advisable to use warming agents before bedtime - a thin layer is applied to the damaged areas and rubbed well into the skin.
- Voltaren;
- Apisatron;
- Espol;
Voltaren
A non-steroidal drug whose active substance is diclofenac sodium. The gel helps relieve pain and has an effective anti-inflammatory effect. It is recommended to apply the gel to the affected area of the skin. It can be used no more than 3 times a day. The maximum course of treatment is 2 weeks.
Apisatron
An effective ointment based on bee venom and analgesics such as methyl salicylate and allyl isothiocyanate. Has an analgesic effect in osteoarthritis. This remedy dilates blood vessels, thereby increasing the flow of oxygen to the affected area, and warms up the muscles.
Apisatron is applied externally to the affected joint area. It should be applied in a thin layer, rub in with light in a circular motion until warming sensations appear. Such rubbing should be done 2-3 times a day, depending on the severity of symptoms.
Before starting therapy, it is imperative to test for an allergy to bee venom. To do this, apply a minimal amount of product to the affected area, after which you need to wait a few minutes. If there is no redness, itching or other allergic manifestations, it fits and can be safely used.
It is prohibited to use Apisatron if there are disorders of the liver or kidneys, if there are skin diseases, oncology or hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.
Anti-inflammatory and painkillers
Anti-inflammatory and analgesic ointments are produced on the basis of agents that can quickly overcome the inflammatory process. The duration and frequency of their use is determined by the attending physician, based on the severity of the pathology and the degree of manifestation of the pain syndrome.
The main medicinal products in this group: Diclofenac, Fastum gel, Nise and.
Too long use of such ointments harms the body. They are best used on initial stages diseases or during periods of exacerbation of arthrosis.
Nise
This is an ointment based on nimesulide. Most often used in complex therapy of arthrosis of the hip joint. Quickly relieves signs of the inflammatory process. The drug is available in the form of a light yellow ointment that has a specific odor. It is recommended to use it only externally.
Nise is rubbed into the sore joint until completely absorbed. You need to smear 3-4 times a day, depending on the severity of symptoms. Without consulting your doctor, you should not use this drug for more than 10 days in a row. Often prescribed to athletes to relieve pain from ankle injuries, ankle joint, shoulder and shoulder joint.
It is prohibited to use it by pregnant and lactating women, children under 7 years of age, with diseases of the skin and gastrointestinal tract, and by people with hypersensitivity to any of the components of the medicine.
Diclofenac
This external preparation. The active ingredient is diclofenac. It has an effective analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect. This remedy is most often used for deforming arthrosis and arthrosis of the knee joint.
Dolgit
The main active ingredient of Dolgita is ibuprofen. This remedy helps to quickly relieve the inflammatory process. Has a good anti-edematous and analgesic effect. Used for complex treatment arthrosis, radiculitis and rheumatic joint diseases.
Dolgit should be applied in an even thin layer to all damaged areas. Rub into the skin until it is completely absorbed. It is necessary to rub 4 times a day, but no longer than 3 weeks.
Combined ointments
They are considered the best and most effective, because... They are created on the basis of capsaicin and salicylic acid. The complex of these components allows you to quickly eliminate pain, swelling and other symptoms of the inflammatory process.
To enhance the effect, the composition includes components such as snake and bee venoms, turpentine, and various essential oils. The result of using such tools is manifested in:
- vasodilation;
- normalization of blood circulation;
- reducing swelling;
- warming the affected areas;
- relieving inflammation;
- eliminating pain syndrome.
The most popular among such ointments are Hepatrombin in the form of ointment and gel.
Dolobene
The drug is based on dimethyl sulfoxide and heparin. The ointment relieves swelling, pain and inflammation well. You need to apply it in a thin layer and put a warm bandage on the affected area. For the best effect, it is recommended to keep this compress for a couple of hours.
Thanks to its light structure, the gel is quickly absorbed. Dolobene is contraindicated in patients with diseases of the cardiovascular system, pathologies of the kidneys and liver, skin and allergic diseases; pregnant and lactating women.
Combined drug. For external use only. Has antithrombotic and anticoagulant effects. It relieves pain, swelling and inflammation well. Made on the basis of heparin, dexpanthenol and allantoin.
Hepatrombin is used most often for tissue inflammation and exacerbation of joint pathology. It is recommended to apply only to the affected area of the skin 1-3 times a day, depending on the manifestations of the clinical picture. Gel, on the contrary, is applied only to healthy areas Skin affected by it should not be lubricated. Both ointment and gel are applied without rubbing or massaging.
Chondroprotectors
Chondroprotectors are used to prevent arthrosis from progressing and for the speedy restoration of cartilage tissue. They are used for arthrosis of the foot (mainly in the initial stages) or for hand joints. But the effect of the ointment does not appear immediately, but only after accumulation nutrients in tissues. Positive dynamics are noted only several months after the end of the course of treatment.
For better regeneration of cartilage tissue, the following ointments are prescribed:
- . It contains glucosamine and chondroitin, which promote rapid joint recovery. In addition, it contains camphor, which helps increase blood flow and nutrition in the damaged area. Peppermint essential oils are good for relieving pain and inflammation. This remedy has practically no contraindications. It should not be used only if the components are intolerant and there are damaged areas of the skin. Teraflex is also used to treat children, but only under the strict supervision of a doctor.
- Alflutop. The composition includes an extract from crushed sea fish. It is rich in amino acids, peptides and minerals. The product is intended to reduce pain and quick recovery fabrics Apply to the damaged area 3 times a day for no more than 3 months. Best effect the drug is used in the treatment of arthrosis of the knee joint during remission.
- . Includes chondroitin sulfate, acetyl glucosamine and glucosamine sulfate. Promotes rapid regeneration of cartilage and prevents joint destruction. When used, metabolism is stimulated in cellular structures. Treatment lasts for 3 months. The cream is rubbed into damaged joints twice a day. Can not use this medicine in case of individual intolerance to its components.
Traditional recipes for ointments
Treatment of joint arthrosis with traditional methods includes the use of ointments prepared independently at home. The most widely used folk remedies:
- WITH . To prepare such a remedy, take 4 parts of purified linseed oil, 1 part each of turpentine and propolis. Mix all this well until a homogeneous mass is obtained. The prepared composition is applied to the affected joints 2 times a day. The prepared ointment is stored in the refrigerator. But it can only be used when heated.
- With wax. To prepare it, take 10 parts of wax, 3 parts of horseradish roots, 2 parts of propolis and 0.5 parts of bee venom. All these components are crushed until a homogeneous paste is obtained. Use this remedy twice a day.
- From herbs. To prepare it, 10 g of sweet clover herb, hops and St. John's wort are finely ground. Add 50 g of Vaseline there. All ingredients are mixed well and placed in a glass jar. Leave for about 2 hours. The ointment is applied to the affected areas at least 2 times a day. This remedy is used at any stage of treatment of arthrosis and has a good anti-inflammatory effect even if the duration of use is not too long.
Folk remedies help to quickly relieve pain and inflammation. They help reduce swelling and improve general state sick. But traditional methods cannot replace those prescribed by a doctor medicines. Home remedies are recommended to be used only as a complementary therapy to enhance the effect of using medications.
General contraindications
Main contraindications for use:
- chronic failure of the kidneys and liver;
- necrotic processes in tissues;
- individual intolerance to components;
- ulcerative lesions of the gastrointestinal tract;
- the presence of mechanical damage in the form of abrasions and wounds on the surface of the skin of the affected areas.
In some cases, unwanted side effects occur after using the ointment. In this case, it is better not to use this remedy. The most common adverse reactions:
- severe dizziness and headache;
- dyspeptic disorders of the digestive tract;
- allergic reactions in the form skin rashes, itching and dermatitis.
In order to avoid adverse reactions, before starting to use the ointment, you should consult your doctor. The doctor will choose the most suitable remedy, indicate the required dosage and duration of treatment.
Deforming changes that occur in joints are often irreversible. But in the most persistent patients it is possible not only to stop the process, but also to restore the damaged anatomy of the joint. Most often, local remedies are used for this - ointments, gels, creams. What are the most popular ointments for arthrosis and why?
Benefits of ointments
Therapy for joint diseases consists of many methods: physiotherapy, medication, use local funds. Taking medications orally may worsen the condition internal organs. To undergo physiotherapeutic procedures, the patient must visit medical institution, and this is a waste of time, and for many people in modern world– this is real luxury.
But ointments for arthrosis of the hip joint and other joints can be used at home, at any time. In addition, the cost of most ointments and gels is quite affordable. As a last resort, you can always use folk recipes and prepare a mixture for lubricating the joint with your own hands.
Almost all gels and creams are not divided by area of application (spine, knees, elbows), and therefore they can be used for different areas where it is necessary. If there are several members of the family with joint diseases, then ointments for arthrosis of the knee joint can be successfully used on the spine or foot area.
Types of ointments
There are a huge number of names of ointments used for arthrosis and arthritis. Conventionally, everything can be divided into several main groups.
Anti-inflammatory
Such ointments help reduce the activity of the inflammatory process in the thickness of the skin and in the joint. Due to the decrease in the activity of prostaglandins, swelling also decreases, and accordingly, the pinching of the nerves passing here also decreases.
Painkillers
As the name implies, such remedies relieve pain. They mainly work by blocking nerve conduction. Of course it's only symptomatic treatment, and directly to the very cause of the disease such therapeutic method it does not matter. But painkillers are considered indispensable for acute pain when, without analgesics, severe discomfort can easily develop into painful shock, which is much more difficult to cope with.
Red pepper in the cream, or more precisely, its extract - capsaicin, has a strong vasodilating and irritating effect. Thanks to this, even the most severe pain goes away in a very short time
Vasodilators and warmers
Such ointments stimulate local blood circulation, as a result of which the intensity of spasms and pain quickly decreases. Most often, the composition includes components that have an irritating and distracting effect. Thus, ointments with red pepper extract contain capsaicin, a substance that quickly warms up the treated area. long time.
Another well-known ingredient in these types of ointments is bee or snake venom, which in small quantities works better than many chemicals.
Stimulating
These ointments contain components that help improve local immune forces. Often minerals and substances necessary for the joints to function properly are added to them. Such ointments are called chondroprotectors.
The most popular means
The pharmaceutical world offers a huge number of products local application to combat arthrosis. Every year the number of drugs only increases, but the most popular names are in constant demand. These include the following means.
Diclofenac
This ointment with the active component of the same name has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Almost every patient who has tried using Diclofenac ointment reports a rapid reduction in pain.
But it also has side effects that can occur with excessive or prolonged use, and therefore it is used for no longer than 2 weeks. The average cost of a tube of Diclofenac ointment is about 20 rubles, which is an additional advantage over other drugs for arthrosis.
Ibuprofen
This ointment is also the most budget-friendly, and therefore its tube will empty the patient’s wallet by only 70–00 rubles. It brings the greatest relief when applied to the knees, shoulders and elbows, and therefore is recommended for gonarthrosis or coxarthrosis. As with oral use, long-term use of Ibuprofen ointment should be avoided, and if severe pain– replace this drug with an analogue.
Espaul
It contains red pepper extract, which quickly warms up the joint. The manufacturer also added essential oils: coriander and lavender, which delicately relieve pain. average price– about 130 rubles.
Heparin ointment
Her active ingredients allow the release of heparin, which reduces the intensity of the inflammatory process. The most effective is the use of heparin ointment for related vascular diseases - thrombophlebitis, varicose veins. The area of application is any, but in the vast majority of cases it is used for leg joints. Cost - from 50 to 80 rubles per tube.
This ointment stimulates the regeneration of cartilage, and therefore can be used even with significant deformities of the joint. This ointment is not only possible, but also necessary to be used for a long time. A person is unlikely to feel the effect after the first use, but the effect will be long-lasting. The price for this drug is not the lowest - about 300 rubles per tube, but in this case all expenses are completely justified, and most importantly, Chondroxide has no complete analogues.
Ointments containing chondroitin have no analogues. They cannot be replaced by analgesics, anti-inflammatory or vasodilator drugs. It is necessary to smear the sore joint with Chondroxide for about six months. After this you need to take a break and then repeat the course
Nise
Nise cream contains a strong analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent - nimesulide. It quickly relieves swelling and improves joint mobility. It should be used wisely, since long-term administration of nimesulide into the body may cause side effects. The average cost of a tube of cream is around 170 rubles.
Dolgit
Another famous cream with a complex composition. It contains an anesthetic component - diclofenac - and warming substances that help improve the supply of nutritional components to the joint. The average cost of a tube is from 150 to 210 rubles.
Viprosal
It is very difficult to single out any one component from the composition here, because they are all equally effective and strong. Salicylic acid– a well-known anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent. Viper and bee venom have been used for several centuries to treat arthrosis and arthritis. The cost of the drug is within 260 rubles.
Actually, the structure of the medicinal product is a gel, as indicated by the manufacturer. This is a complex drug that contains diclofenac, snake venom and other components that help accelerate blood flow and quickly relieve pain. The cost of this product is not the most affordable - from 220 rubles, which is largely due to advertising, but this does not reduce the popularity of the drug.
There are few of them, but the patient should know about them:
- Do not apply the ointment to an area with obvious damage to the skin. So, if there is a cut or scratch on the leg in the joint area, you need to wait until it heals (tightening of the epidermis), and only then begin local therapeutic methods.
- If the patient has allergic reaction, then further use of the ointment is strictly prohibited. It will be better if you can find out which component you are sensitive to, so that you can try to exclude it when the doctor prescribes another ointment for the patient. Most often, allergies manifest themselves in complex formulations ointments containing several components. By the way, natural ingredients in this case are considered more dangerous for allergy sufferers. The same bee venom can cause unpleasant symptoms (itching, burning) in a number of people prone to allergies.
- Anti-inflammatory ointments work well only in the initial stages of the disease. Conduct effective therapy Arthrosis of the 3rd degree is impossible solely with ointments. Warming ointments in this sense have the best effect.
- Ointments containing poisons are usually not used for a long time. They promote stretching of the ligamentous apparatus, and therefore their long-term use can lead to instability of the joint and, as a result, injury (fracture, dislocation).
- Ointments should be part of complex therapy, but not the only remedy. For treatment, all methods and means must be used simultaneously, and if there is no effect, the therapeutic course is repeated. This is the only way a person can be healthy. And most importantly, no creams can replace surgical intervention, if it is recommended by the doctor. Such situations are most common with significant damage and deformation of the foot.
Manufacturer created new packaging Voltaren, which took into account some of the subtleties of applying the product to the skin. Now you do not need to use protective equipment (gloves) for this, since the lid is also an applicator. Details on how to use the tube are indicated in the instructions for the drug.
In a word, you must carefully read the instructions for use. This applies not only to the use, but also to the storage of the cream. Most creams containing skin irritating components are best applied to the joint area while wearing special cellophane gloves.
You can speed up the effect of the ointment if you simultaneously undergo a physiotherapeutic procedure - electrophoresis. Thanks to low frequency currents, the active components of any ointment will penetrate deeper into the skin layers, which can be useful in the treatment of the ankle joint and other joints where there are pathological processes in internal areas.
Let's sum it up
Osteoarthrosis, gonarthrosis, coxarthrosis - all these diseases can become a thing of the past if you start timely treatment. Local treatment methods help restore joint mobility and help relieve inflammation inside the joint. Before choosing ointments, you should consult your doctor.
