How is osteoarthritis diagnosed. What are the most effective medications for osteoarthritis. Can lifestyle changes alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms. Are there alternative therapies for managing osteoarthritis pain. What role does exercise play in osteoarthritis treatment. When should surgery be considered for osteoarthritis. How can supportive therapies improve daily life with osteoarthritis.

Understanding Osteoarthritis: Causes and Symptoms

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. To effectively manage this condition, it’s crucial to understand its underlying causes and recognize its symptoms.

What causes osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis develops due to a combination of factors:

• Age-related wear and tear
• Joint injuries or overuse
• Genetic predisposition
• Obesity, which puts extra stress on weight-bearing joints
• Metabolic disorders

Common symptoms of osteoarthritis

Recognizing the symptoms of osteoarthritis is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. Common signs include:

• Joint pain that worsens with activity
• Stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity
• Reduced range of motion
• Swelling around affected joints
• Clicking or crackling sounds during joint movement

Pharmacological Interventions: Medications for Osteoarthritis Relief

While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, various medications can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Here’s an overview of the most commonly prescribed medications for osteoarthritis:

Analgesics: Pain relief without inflammation reduction

Analgesics are medications that target pain without addressing inflammation. They work by altering how the body perceives pain signals. Common analgesics used in osteoarthritis treatment include:

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• Tramadol
• Prescription opioids (used cautiously due to addiction risks)

When using acetaminophen, it’s crucial to adhere to the maximum daily dosage of 4,000 milligrams, especially for individuals without liver disease. Exceeding this limit can lead to severe liver damage or even fatality.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Dual-action relief

NSAIDs are among the most frequently prescribed medications for osteoarthritis. They offer both pain relief and inflammation reduction. Popular NSAIDs include:

• Aspirin
• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
• Naproxen (Aleve)
• Celecoxib (Celebrex)

These medications are available in oral and topical forms. While effective, NSAIDs may cause gastrointestinal issues and increase the risk of cardiovascular events in some individuals. It’s essential to follow dosage instructions carefully and consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.

Corticosteroids: Powerful anti-inflammatory agents

Corticosteroids, such as cortisone and prednisone, are potent medications that reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. They can be administered orally or through direct injections into affected joints. While effective, their use should be limited due to potential side effects, including bone thinning and cartilage breakdown.

Hyaluronic acid: Joint lubrication therapy

Hyaluronic acid injections aim to supplement the natural joint fluid, which breaks down in individuals with osteoarthritis. This treatment can provide relief for some patients, particularly those who don’t respond well to NSAIDs. However, it may take several weeks to experience the full benefits, and results can vary among individuals.

The Role of Lifestyle Modifications in Osteoarthritis Management

Alongside medication, lifestyle changes play a crucial role in managing osteoarthritis symptoms and slowing disease progression. These modifications can significantly improve quality of life and reduce reliance on pharmacological interventions.

Exercise: A cornerstone of osteoarthritis treatment

Regular physical activity is essential for individuals with osteoarthritis, regardless of age or fitness level. An effective exercise regimen should include:

• Strengthening exercises to build muscle support around affected joints
• Low-impact aerobic activities to improve overall fitness
• Flexibility exercises to maintain and improve joint range of motion

While the idea of exercising with joint pain may seem counterintuitive, consistent physical activity can help alleviate symptoms, improve joint function, and enhance overall well-being. Working with a physical therapist or following a tailored exercise plan can ensure safe and effective workouts.

Weight management: Reducing stress on joints

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for individuals with osteoarthritis, particularly those with affected weight-bearing joints like knees and hips. Excess weight puts additional stress on these joints, accelerating cartilage breakdown and exacerbating symptoms.

Implementing a balanced diet and regular exercise routine can help achieve and maintain a healthy weight, thereby reducing joint stress and potentially slowing disease progression.

Dietary considerations for osteoarthritis

While no specific diet has been proven to cure osteoarthritis, certain dietary choices may help manage symptoms and support overall joint health:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish, nuts, and seeds, these may help reduce inflammation
• Antioxidant-rich foods: Fruits and vegetables can help combat oxidative stress
• Vitamin D and calcium: Important for maintaining bone health
• Avoiding pro-inflammatory foods: Limiting processed foods, sugars, and excessive red meat intake

Alternative and Complementary Therapies for Osteoarthritis

In addition to conventional treatments, many individuals with osteoarthritis explore alternative and complementary therapies to manage their symptoms. While scientific evidence varies for these approaches, some people find them beneficial as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Acupuncture: Ancient healing for modern pain

Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese healing practice, involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. Some studies suggest that acupuncture may help relieve osteoarthritis pain, particularly in the knee. While more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness, many patients report improved pain management and quality of life with regular acupuncture sessions.

Massage therapy: Easing muscle tension and promoting relaxation

Massage can help reduce muscle tension around affected joints, improve circulation, and promote overall relaxation. While not a cure for osteoarthritis, regular massage may help alleviate pain and stiffness, making it easier to perform daily activities and exercise routines.

Supplements: Potential benefits and limitations

Various dietary supplements are marketed for osteoarthritis relief, with glucosamine and chondroitin being among the most popular. While some individuals report benefits from these supplements, scientific evidence regarding their effectiveness is mixed. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, as they may interact with other medications or have unintended side effects.

Advanced Treatments: When Conservative Approaches Fall Short

For individuals who don’t find sufficient relief from medications and lifestyle modifications, advanced treatments may be considered. These options typically involve more invasive procedures or cutting-edge therapies.

Viscosupplementation: Enhancing joint lubrication

Viscosupplementation involves injecting hyaluronic acid directly into affected joints to improve lubrication and shock absorption. This treatment can provide relief for some patients, particularly those with knee osteoarthritis. Multiple injections may be required, and results can vary among individuals.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: Harnessing the body’s healing potential

PRP therapy uses a concentrated form of the patient’s own blood platelets to promote healing and reduce inflammation in affected joints. While still considered experimental for osteoarthritis, some studies have shown promising results in terms of pain reduction and improved function.

Stem cell therapy: Regenerative medicine for joint health

Stem cell therapy aims to use the body’s own regenerative capabilities to repair damaged cartilage and reduce inflammation. While research in this area is ongoing, early studies suggest potential benefits for some osteoarthritis patients. However, more long-term data is needed to fully understand its effectiveness and safety.

Surgical Interventions: When to Consider Joint Surgery

In cases where conservative treatments and advanced therapies fail to provide adequate relief, surgical options may be considered. The decision to undergo surgery should be made in consultation with an orthopedic specialist, taking into account the severity of symptoms, overall health, and potential risks and benefits.

Joint replacement surgery: A new lease on mobility

Total joint replacement surgery involves removing the damaged joint surfaces and replacing them with artificial components. This procedure can provide significant pain relief and improved function for individuals with severe osteoarthritis. The most common joint replacement surgeries are for the hip and knee, but other joints can also be replaced if necessary.

Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive joint repair

Arthroscopic surgery uses small incisions and specialized instruments to repair or remove damaged tissue within a joint. While less invasive than total joint replacement, arthroscopy may be less effective for advanced osteoarthritis and is typically reserved for specific cases where joint preservation is possible.

Osteotomy: Realigning joints for improved function

An osteotomy involves cutting and reshaping bone to redistribute weight and stress within a joint. This procedure is most commonly performed on the knee and can be an option for younger, active individuals with osteoarthritis affecting only one side of the joint.

Supportive Therapies: Enhancing Daily Life with Osteoarthritis

In addition to medical treatments and lifestyle modifications, various supportive therapies can help individuals with osteoarthritis manage their symptoms and maintain independence in daily activities.

Assistive devices: Tools for improved mobility and function

Assistive devices can help reduce stress on affected joints and improve overall function. Common examples include:

• Canes or walkers for improved stability
• Braces or splints to support affected joints
• Ergonomic tools for household tasks
• Shoe inserts or orthotic devices for foot and ankle support

Occupational therapy: Adapting to daily challenges

Occupational therapists can help individuals with osteoarthritis develop strategies to perform daily tasks with less pain and strain on affected joints. This may include teaching joint protection techniques, recommending adaptive equipment, and suggesting modifications to home or work environments.

Physical therapy: Targeted exercises for joint health

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in osteoarthritis management by providing targeted exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and overall joint function. A physical therapist can develop a personalized exercise program and teach proper techniques to maximize benefits while minimizing the risk of injury.

By combining appropriate medications, lifestyle modifications, and supportive therapies, many individuals with osteoarthritis can effectively manage their symptoms and maintain a high quality of life. Regular communication with healthcare providers and a willingness to adapt treatment plans as needed are key to successful long-term management of this chronic condition.

What Medicines Treat Osteoarthritis?

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a disease of the bone joints that can cause severe pain and swelling. The cartilage around the ends of your bone joints wears away over years of use and leaves the bones rubbing against each other. This can make them inflamed and painful.

Your doctor may ask you to make lifestyle changes like exercise, losing weight, and changing your eating habits. In addition to those options, there are several medications that may help you. Some are available over the counter while others need a prescription. They can be pills, creams, lotions, or injections.

Here are some of them and how they work:

Analgesics: These are medicines that relieve pain but don’t reduce inflammation. They work to change how your body responds to pain. Popular options include acetaminophen, tramadol, and prescription opioids containing hydrocodone or oxycodone. The opioids can be addictive and are generally avoided.

Your maximum daily dosage of acetaminophen should be 4,000 milligrams (mg), if you don’t have any liver disease. Too much can cause liver damage or even death.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These drugs reduce inflammation as well as ease pain. These are some of the most popular medications given for arthritis. NSAIDs include aspirin, celecoxib, ibuprofen, and naproxen. They are usually taken in pill form but may cause stomach upset or bleeding. Make sure to follow the maximum daily dosage limits for each medication. Some are also available as creams to rub on your joints (for instance, Aspercreme). Some NSAIDs may increase your risk of heart disease or stroke. It’s actually recommended that you don’t use NSAIDs if you have an ongoing health condition such as heart disease, liver disease, or kidney disease. NSAIDs are non-narcotic and non-addictive.

Counterirritants: These are creams and ointments containing ingredients like menthol or capsaicin, the ingredient that makes hot peppers burn. Rubbing these on your painful joints may stop the pain signals from the joint to the brain.

Glucosamine and chondroitin: These are over-the-counter dietary supplements that are taken by mouth. Study results show no significant benefits, so taking these may or may not help you.

Corticosteroids (steroids): These are powerful medications (like cortisone and prednisone) that reduce swelling and suppress the immune system. Your doctor may give you a prescription for a pill or inject it directly at the site of your pain. The effects can be felt in a few days and will last for about 2 months.

Doctors say you shouldn’t get more than four steroid shots a year and you shouldn’t stay on them indefinitely. Corticosteroid injections can cause thinning of your bone near the site of the shot, as well as the breakdown of more cartilage.

Hyaluronic Acid: This naturally occurs in the fluid of your joints and acts as a lubricant. However, hyaluronic acid breaks down in people who have arthritis, so your doctor may give you injections of this fluid. The doctor injects you at the site of your pain (usually the knee). Getting these injections could be an alternative to taking an NSAID. However, it takes about 5 weeks to feel any pain relief, unlike cortisol. These injections don’t work for everyone and are expensive. You will need to discuss this option with your doctor.

Top Picks

Osteoarthritis – Treatment and support

There’s no cure for osteoarthritis, but the condition does not necessarily get any worse over time. There are a number of treatments to help relieve the symptoms.

The main treatments for the symptoms of osteoarthritis include:

• lifestyle measures – such as maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly
• medication – to relieve your pain
• supportive therapies – to help make everyday activities easier

In a few cases, where other treatments have not been helpful, surgery to repair, strengthen or replace damaged joints may also be considered.

Lifestyle changes

Exercise

Exercise is one of the most important treatments for people with osteoarthritis, whatever your age or level of fitness. Your physical activity should include a combination of exercises to strengthen your muscles and exercises to improve your general fitness.

If osteoarthritis causes you pain and stiffness, you may think exercise will make your symptoms worse.

However, regular exercise that keeps you active, builds up muscle and strengthens the joints usually helps to improve symptoms.

Exercise is also good for losing weight, improving your posture and relieving stress, all of which will ease symptoms.

Your GP, or possibly a physiotherapist, will discuss the benefits you can expect from a exercise programme and can give you an exercise plan to follow at home.

It’s important to follow this plan because there’s a risk that doing too much exercise too quickly, or doing the wrong sort of exercise, may damage your joints.

Find out more about exercise guidelines including simple ways to exercise at home.

Losing weight

Being overweight or obese often makes osteoarthritis worse, as it places extra strain on some of your joints.

To find out if you are overweight or obese, use the healthy weight calculator.

If you’re overweight or obese, try to lose weight by doing more physical activity and eating a healthier diet.

Discuss any new exercise plan with your GP or physiotherapist before you start. They can help you plan a suitable exercise programme for you. Your GP and practice nurse can also advise about how to lose weight slowly and safely.

Find out more about managing your weight.

Pain relief medicines

Your doctor will talk to you about medicines to relieve pain from osteoarthritis.

Sometimes a combination of therapies, such as painkillers, exercise and assistive devices or surgery, may be needed to help control your pain.

The type of painkiller a GP may recommend for you will depend on the severity of your pain and other conditions or health problems you have. The main medications used are below.

Paracetamol

If you have pain caused by osteroarthritis, your GP might suggest you consider taking paracetamol for short-term pain relief. You can buy paracetamol at supermarkets or pharmacies.

However, many people find that it doesn’t work very well, and it is only normally tried if you can’t take other medicines.

When taking paracetamol, always use the dose a GP recommends and do not exceed the maximum dose stated on the pack.

Find out more about paracetamol.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

A GP may prescribe a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). These are painkillers that work by reducing inflammation.

Some NSAIDs are available as creams (topical NSAIDs) that you apply directly to the affected joints. Some topical NSAIDs are available without a prescription. They can be particularly effective if you have osteoarthritis in your knees or hands. As well as helping to ease pain, they can also help reduce any swelling in your joints.

Your doctor will discuss with you the type of NSAID you should take and the benefits and risks associated with it.

NSAID tablets may be needed if topical NSAIDs are not easing the pain. They may not be suitable for people with certain conditions, such as asthma, a stomach ulcer or angina, or if you have had a heart attack or stroke. If you’re taking low-dose aspirin, ask your GP whether you should use a NSAID.

If your GP recommends or prescribes an NSAID to be taken by mouth, they’ll usually also prescribe a medicine called a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to take at the same time. NSAIDs can break down the lining in your stomach that protects it against stomach acid. PPIs reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach, reducing the risk of damage to your stomach lining.

Opioids

Opioids, such as codeine, are another type of painkiller that may help relieve severe pain.

GPs will only usually prescribe opioids on a short-term basis because of side effects such as drowsiness, nausea and constipation.

You may be prescribed a laxative to take alongside it to prevent constipation.

Capsaicin cream

You may be prescribed capsaicin cream if you have osteoarthritis in your hands or knees and topical NSAIDs have not been effective in easing your pain.

Capsaicin cream works by blocking the nerves that send pain messages in the treated area. You may have to use it for a while before it has an effect. You should experience some pain relief within the first 2 weeks of using the cream, but it may take up to a month for the treatment to be fully effective.

Apply a pea-size amount of capsaicin cream to your affected joints up to 4 times a day, but not more often than every 4 hours. Do not use capsaicin cream on broken or inflamed skin and always wash your hands after applying it.

Be careful not to get any capsaicin cream on delicate areas, such as your eyes, mouth, nose and genitals. Capsaicin is made from chillies, so if you get it on sensitive areas of your body, it’s likely to be very painful for a few hours. However, it will not cause any damage.

You may notice a burning sensation on your skin after applying capsaicin cream. This is nothing to worry about, and the more you use it, the less it should happen. But avoid using too much cream or having a hot bath or shower before or after applying it, because it can make the burning sensation worse.

Steroid injections

Steroids are a type of medication that contain manmade versions of the hormone cortisol, and are sometimes used to treat particularly painful musculoskeletal problems.

Some people with osteoarthritis may be offered steroid injections when other treatments haven’t worked.

The injection will be made directly into the affected area. You may be given a local anaesthetic first to numb the area and reduce the pain.

Steroid injections work quickly and can ease pain for several weeks or months.

Supportive treatments

In addition to lifestyle changes and medicines, you may benefit from a number of supportive treatments that can help reduce your pain and make everyday tasks easier.

Hot or cold packs

Applying hot or cold packs to the joints can relieve the pain and symptoms of osteoarthritis in some people. A hot-water bottle filled with either hot or cold water and applied to the affected area can be very effective in reducing pain.

Special hot and cold packs that can either be cooled in the freezer or heated in a microwave are also available, and work in a similar way.

Assistive devices

If osteoarthritis is causing mobility problems or making it difficult to do everyday tasks, several devices could help. Your GP may refer you to a physiotherapist or an occupational therapist for specialist help and advice.

If you have osteoarthritis in your lower limbs, such as your hips, knees or feet, your physiotherapist or occupational therapist may suggest special footwear or insoles for your shoes.

Footwear with shock-absorbing soles can help relieve some of the pressure on the joints in your legs as you walk. Special insoles may help spread your weight more evenly. Leg braces and supports also work in the same way.

If you have osteoarthritis in your hip or knee that affects your mobility, you may need to use a walking aid, such as a stick or cane. Hold it on the opposite side of your body to your affected leg so that it takes some of your weight.

A splint (a piece of rigid material used to provide support to a joint or bone) can also be useful if you need to rest a painful joint. Your physiotherapist can provide you with a splint and give you advice on how to use it correctly.

If your hands are affected by osteoarthritis, you may also need assistance with hand-operated tasks, such as turning on a tap. Special devices, such as tap turners, can make performing these tasks more manageable. Your occupational therapist can give you help and advice about using assistive devices in your home or workplace.

Manual therapy

Not using your joints can cause your muscles to waste and may increase stiffness caused by osteoarthritis. Manual therapy is a technique where a physiotherapist uses their hands to stretch, mobilise and massage the body tissues to keep your joints supple and flexible.

Find out more about physiotherapy.

Surgery

Surgery for osteoarthritis is only needed in a small number of cases where other treatments haven’t been effective or where your daily life is seriously affected.

If you need surgery for osteoarthritis, your GP will refer you to an orthopaedic surgeon. Having surgery for osteoarthritis may greatly improve your symptoms, mobility and quality of life.

However, surgery cannot be guaranteed to get rid of your symptoms altogether, and you may still experience pain and stiffness from your condition.

There are several different types of surgery for osteoarthritis.

Joint replacement

Joint replacement, also known as an arthroplasty, is most commonly done to replace hip and knee joints.

During an arthroplasty, your surgeon will remove your affected joint and replace it with an artificial joint (prosthesis) made of special plastics and metal. An artificial joint can last for up to 20 years, although it may eventually need to be replaced.

There’s also a newer type of joint replacement surgery called resurfacing. This uses only metal components and may be more suitable for younger patients. Your surgeon will discuss with you the type of surgery that would be best.

Find out more about hip replacement and knee replacement.

Joint fusing

If joint replacement is not suitable for you, your surgeon may suggest an operation to fuse your joint in a permanent position, known as an arthrodesis.

This means your joint will be stronger and much less painful, although you will no longer be able to move it.

Adding or removing some bone around a joint

If you have osteoarthritis in your knees but you’re not suitable for knee replacement surgery, you may be able to have an operation called an osteotomy. This involves your surgeon adding or removing a small section of bone either above or below your knee joint.

This helps realign your knee so your weight is no longer focused on the damaged part of your knee. An osteotomy can relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis, although you may still need knee replacement surgery eventually.

Complementary and alternative therapies

Some people with osteoarthritis try complementary or alternative therapies – such as acupuncture and aromatherapy – and find them helpful.

However, there’s a lack of medical evidence to suggest they’re effective and they generally are not recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).

Nutritional supplements

A number of nutritional supplements have been used to treat osteoarthritis in the past, including chondroitin and glucosamine.

GPs no longer prescribe chondroitin and glucosamine on the NHS because there’s no strong evidence that they are effective as a treatment.

Generally, supplements can be expensive and NICE recommends that they should not routinely be offered on the NHS. 

Rubefacients

Rubefacients are available as gels and creams that produce a warm, reddening effect on your skin when you rub them in. Several rubefacients have been used to treat joint pain caused by osteoarthritis.

However, research has shown that rubefacients have little effect in improving the symptoms of osteoarthritis and NICE therefore does not recommend their use.

Page last reviewed: 20 March 2023
Next review due: 20 March 2026

Arthrosis of the joints: treatment, symptoms. degrees of arthrosis.

Arthrosis is a chronic degenerative-dystrophic disease that affects all parts of the joint: cartilage, articular membrane, ligaments, capsule, pericartilaginous bones and periarticular muscles and ligaments.

According to European doctors, arthrosis accounts for almost 70% of all rheumatological diseases. The most susceptible to arthrosis of the joints are people aged 40-60 years. This is facilitated by both a lack of movement and prolonged overloads, improper nutrition and, of course, injuries.

1

Radiography

2

Diagnosis of arthrosis of the joints

3

Diagnosis of arthrosis of the joints

What is a joint

Usually a human joint consists of 2 or more connected bones. All working surfaces of the joint have a protective coating and are constantly lubricated with synovial fluid for the best glide. The joint cavity itself is hermetically sealed by the joint capsule.

In our body, many joints that are “responsible” for certain types of movements can experience a variety of loads and have a different margin of safety.

The range of motion in the joints depends on the structure of the joint, the ligamentous apparatus that limits and strengthens the joint, and the various muscles attached to the bones by tendons.

Causes of arthrosis of the joints

Normal operation of the joints is possible with constant self-renewal of cartilage tissue. At a young age, the rate of death of obsolete articular cells is equal to the rate of birth of new cells. Over the years, the process of cell renewal slows down, and cartilage tissue begins to thin. It also reduces the production of synovial fluid. As a result, the articular cartilage begins to thin and break down, which leads to arthrosis.

In addition, there are other causes of joint arthrosis:

• increased physical activity Arthrosis of the joints is a frequent companion of overweight. As a result of overload, microtraumas are formed in the joints. Athletes develop joint damage with increased loads on “unheated” joints;
• joint injuries ;
• congenital or acquired deformities of the musculoskeletal system (rickets, kyphosis, scoliosis, improper fusion of bones after injuries with the appearance of limb deformity: O-shaped and X-shaped deformity of the legs).

Stages of arthrosis

Depending on the degree of destruction of cartilage, different stages or degrees of arthrosis can be distinguished.

Degrees and symptoms of arthrosis

Arthrosis of the 1st degree is characterized by periodic pain in the joints, especially with increased physical exertion. After rest, the pain usually disappears. The range of motion in the joint is not limited, muscle strength in the injured limb is not changed. X-rays can show minimal signs of joint damage.
Arthrosis of the 2nd degree is manifested by painful sensations not only with intense physical exertion, but also with minor loads. Even during rest, pain in the joints may not subside. This degree is characterized by stiffness in movements, limited mobility in the joints. Ultimately, this leads to muscle atrophy. An x-ray can show deformity of the joint, a decrease in the joint space, the appearance of bone growths near this gap.
Arthrosis of the 3rd degree – any movement causes a lot of pain to a person. Joint pain is present even at rest. Therefore, a person tries to move as little as possible so that the pain is minimal. In some cases, movement requires the use of crutches or a wheelchair. Sometimes there is a fusion of bones – ankylosis (as in Bechterew’s disease).

With deforming arthrosis irreversible changes occur in the cartilaginous tissue of the joint and its functions and structure are completely disturbed. At the heart of deforming arthrosis of the joints is the appearance of dysfunction in the formation of hyaline cartilage and synovial fluid.

Diagnosis of arthrosis of the joints

The main method of diagnosing joints is radiography. With arthrosis, changes in the joints, uneven surface of the joints and narrowing of the joint space can be observed.

Which joints are more likely to suffer from arthrosis

The joints of the extremities are most susceptible to arthrosis: hip and knee, shoulder, elbow and hands.

In case of arthrosis of the hip joint , at first a person may feel slight discomfort in the leg area after running or walking. Over time, the pain intensifies, there is limitedness and stiffness in movement. At the 3rd degree of the disease, the patient protects the leg and tries not to step on it if possible.

Arthrosis of the knee joint manifests itself as pain in the knee joint after bending and straightening the legs. The most common cause of osteoarthritis of the knee joint are injuries received in the past. As a result of these injuries, the sliding of the articular surfaces is disturbed and their rapid wear occurs. In some cases, the joint may gradually lose its mobility.

1

Diagnosis of arthrosis of the joints

2

Diagnosis of arthrosis of the joints

3

X-ray

Arthrosis of the ankle joint manifests itself in the form of swelling, pain in the ankle. The cause of arthrosis of the ankle joint can be: deformities, fractures of the ankles and talus, dislocations, flat feet, chronic injuries of the ankle joint in athletes and ballerinas. By the way, they often have arthrosis of the foot.

Arthrosis of the shoulder joint and elbow, wrist joints most often occurs as a result of injuries, bruises, dislocations, intra-articular fractures. Osteoarthritis of the shoulder joint is characterized by pressing, breaking, dull pains that radiate to the forearm and hand. The pain most often appears at night. With arthrosis of the hands, pain is accompanied by a violation of the functions of the hand.

Treatment of arthrosis

The main means of treating arthrosis are drug treatment, the use of physiotherapy and surgical treatment.

Drug treatment

The use of drugs helps to improve blood circulation in damaged joints, restore cartilage properties, and has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Osteoarthritis may cause swelling of the joint, pain in the joint and reduced range of motion. When taking anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), the pain decreases, the chain inflammatory reaction stops and the process of cartilage repair accelerates.

The most commonly used drugs are: diclofenac, nimesulide, indomethacin, paracetamol. They can be used in the form of tablets, rectal suppositories and powder. But remember that self-medication is unacceptable, the selection and dose of a therapeutic drug for arthrosis is carried out by a rheumatologist.

Centrally acting painkillers

Opioid drugs lower the patient’s pain threshold. Reception of such drugs is possible strictly by prescription and only under the supervision of a doctor!

Chondoprotectors

Chondoprotectors are structural elements of the cartilage itself, therefore they actively restore this tissue and prevent its further destruction. Treatment is effective in the early stages of the disease. When the joint is already completely destroyed, it is not possible to restore the original shape of deformed bones or build up new cartilage.

However, at stages 1-2 of arthrosis, chondroprotectors can bring significant relief to the patient. Combined preparations, which include both glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, in comparison with a single-component preparation, give a better result.

Chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine sulfate

These medicines help to slow down the inflammatory response in tissues, help reduce cartilage damage and reduce pain. Most often, these 2 drugs are used together in treatment, as they have an accumulative effect, but they must be taken within 3-6 months.

Hyaluronic acid

Provides viscosity and elasticity to the synovial fluid. Helps the joints to glide well. Therefore, doctors often prescribe injections of hyaluronic acid into the affected joint.

Physiotherapeutic methods of treatment

Physiotherapeutic methods of treatment may include:

• UHF therapy;
• magnetotherapy;
• low intensity laser irradiation;
• drug electrophoresis;
• phonophoresis (use of ultrasound to inject a drug into an inflammation site). 9Surgeon medical treatment

  surgical treatment is used to restore and improve joint mobility, as well as to to remove a piece of cartilage or a damaged meniscus.

  Surgical treatment of arthrosis is already resorted to in extreme cases, when medication treatment does not work, when there is severe pain, partial or complete immobility in the joints.

  During arthroscopic surgery, it is possible to remove a part of arthrosis-affected cartilage, grind it to give a smooth surface, remove cartilage fragments and outgrowths, and cut off part of the damaged ligaments.

  Knee joint replacement

  This operation replaces the articular surfaces of the knee joint with metal or combined prostheses. Prepared plates repeat the surface of the articular cartilage. Such prostheses are made of special alloys, they do not cause a rejection reaction in patients, do not oxidize and do not injure surrounding tissues.

  Hip surgery for arthrosis

  This operation involves partial removal of the cartilage and bone tissue of the pelvis and femur. Usually, the femoral head and the articular surface of the pelvic bone are removed and replaced with a metal or ceramic-metal prosthesis.

  Arthrosis Diet

  Excess body weight is a big enemy of your joints. Most patients suffering from arthrosis of the hip and knee joints are overweight.

  Therefore, a properly selected diet is recommended for arthrosis. It is believed that jelly cooked on cartilage broth is useful for arthrosis. It contains a lot of collagen and structural components of cartilage that help restore cartilage tissue.

  Useful dairy products, protein and calcium. Animal protein is found in lean meats and fish, vegetable protein in buckwheat, beans and lentils. Boiled, stewed and steamed dishes are very useful.

  The best diet for joints is a diet with a small predominance of carbohydrates (preferably complex carbohydrates), fruits and vegetables, sufficient protein and calcium.

  Prevention of arthrosis

  Prevention of arthrosis, no matter how trite it may seem, lies in a healthy lifestyle. If possible, try to be outdoors, move, walk barefoot on sand, green grass, and just the ground. Such walking improves muscle function and increases blood circulation in the feet.

  The use of physical therapy with various swings of arms and legs, turns, bends will give all possible support to your joints.

  Patients often ask if folk treatment of arthrosis is possible? Yes, folk remedies can help in the initial stages of the disease, reduce pain and improve the general condition of the patient. But it is not a substitute for following your doctor’s orders.

  Multidisciplinary clinic “Medicity” is a highly qualified rheumatologists with extensive experience in the treatment of not only arthrosis, but also other rheumatological diseases. We will help you in the fight against rheumatism, polymyositis, arthritis, vasculitis, osteoporosis, gout, systemic scleroderma and other ailments. The main thing is to take the first step and make an appointment with a specialist.

  The material was prepared with the participation of a specialist:

  • Gulyaev Sergey Viktorovich

    Rheumatologist, internist, nephrologist

    Candidate of Medical Sciences

  Treatment of arthrosis with chondroprotectors | Dikul Center

  Treatment of arthrosis with chondroprotectors | Center Dikul

  We use cookies to improve the site and its user experience. By continuing to use the site, you consent to the use of cookies. You can always disable cookies in your browser settings.

  • Main
  • Articles
  • Diseases of the joints
  • Treatment of arthrosis with chondroprotectors

  2023-06-09

  Treatment of arthrosis with chondroprotectors

  Chondroprotectors are special medicines for arthrosis that improve the metabolism in the affected joint, which means they prevent or slow down its destruction. Most drugs for arthrosis of this kind contain biologically active substances of cartilage. Below we give the main, most important chondroprotectors.

  1. Rumalon. This arthrosis medicine consists mainly of bone marrow and cartilage extract from young animals. The medicine includes the following biologically active substances: peptides, proteoglycans, amino acids, nucleotides, chondrocytes, bone marrow cells.
     The medicine for arthrosis improves the production of GAGs in the diseased joint, the synthesis of hyaluronic acid also improves, the composition of the synovial fluid becomes more favorable for the treatment of arthrosis, the lubrication of the diseased joint also improves. This drug must be administered intramuscularly every other day, the dose of the drug for arthrosis is 0 1 ml. The cure for arthrosis occurs after 25 injections of rumanol. Side effects on this medicine for arthrosis are rare, but swelling of the face, a rash on the skin, and eosinophilia still occur. Treatment of arthrosis with this drug can be carried out only if arthrosis is in the first or second stage – in the third, the drug cannot be used.
  2. Artron (chondroitin sulfate). The principle of its action on a diseased joint is very similar to Rumanol, as well as other properties, including dosage and time for a full course of treatment.
  3. Arteparon. This arthrosis drug is a combination of proteoglycans and GAGs. Since its composition is close to the composition of the cartilage of the diseased joint, there are no particular difficulties on the way of the drug from arthrosis to cartilage. It reduces the activity of proteases in the cartilage and inhibits the destructive activity of arthrosis. Application – intramuscular, it is necessary to enter 2 times a week for 2 months (dosage – 1 milliliter), then – once every two weeks for a period of 4 months.
  4. Mukartin. This medicine for arthrosis is a mucopolysaccharide sulphate ester, the principle of action on a diseased joint is similar to arteparone, the scheme of application is also the same, but the dosage is different – 2 ml.

  Introduction of inhibitors of proteolytic enzymes in arthrosis.

  This method is used for severe pain and reactive synovitis. Most often, inhibitors are administered for arthrosis of the knee joint. The most popular drugs for this type of arthrosis are trasylol (countercal) and gordox. These drugs inhibit trypsin, chymotrypsin, cathepsins and other proteases. Trasilol or Gordox is injected into the joint, the dosage is 25,000 units. The treatment time for arthrosis is from 2 to 5 injections of these drugs for arthrosis, the intervals between injections are 2-3 days. Before the introduction of the drug into the body, it is necessary to make an intramuscular injection of dimedrol, and the medicine for arthrosis itself must be mixed with 0.002 g of hydrocorticone – this will eliminate acute pain from arthrosis.

  Application of artificial lubrication of the joints.

  This method of treating arthrosis improves the correspondence of two joints to each other and reduces the deformation and destruction of the cartilage. As an artificial lubricant, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) or its 6% solution (hemodez) usually act.

  These arthrosis drugs are injected into large joints only. Injections should be made once a week, dosage – 5 ml of a 15% solution of PVP mixed with 25 ml of hydrocortisone – to eliminate pain from arthrosis. The course usually consists of 4-6 injections, although this number can be changed at the discretion of the doctor. If the joint with arthrosis is small, then the amount of PVP administered is reduced from one and a half to two times. This type of treatment for arthrosis is effective at any stage of reactive synovitis.

  The following types of artificial joint lubricants are available:

  • 15% PVP solution (water)
  • The same solution, but in combination with hyaluronic acid. This mixture is used in the first and second stages of arthrosis without the presence of synovitis.
  • The same solution in combination with arteparone. It is used in cases where the cartilage of the joint affected by arthrosis is largely destroyed, the menisci are affected, as well as in the case of arthrosis that appeared after any injury.