Throughout our lives, we move with the help of joints that hold our limbs. If the joints suffer, we lose the ability to move easily and freely. Movement is life, so it is imperative to pay attention to the health of the joints.
Deforming osteoarthritis (OA) is a disease of the joints, which is better to prevent than to try to treat the consequences.
What is deforming osteoarthritis?
Deforming osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative-dystrophic joint disease associated with the destruction of cartilage tissue. DOA constantly progresses, and all tissues of the joint are involved in the pathological process over time. This leads to deformation of the joint, disruption of its function and significant pain syndrome.
The reason for the development of the disease
Unequivocal reason has not been determined at this time. DOA is a multifactorial disease, that is, several factors can be the cause of the disease at the same time.
The development of the disease is influenced by:
- excessive weight, especially in women after 40;
- excessive load on the joints (in weightlifters, DOA of the knee joints is almost an occupational disease);
- injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system (untimely detected or not treated);
- age changes (almost 60-70% of elderly people have DOA);
- heredity or congenital pathologies (in this case, DOA can occur in young, completely healthy people);
- weather conditions and working conditions (hypothermia negatively affects the joints, especially in old age).
Measures for the prevention of DOA:
- Decreasing body weight, which is achieved thanks to a balanced diet;
- Adequate motor activity (gymnastics, physical therapy);
- Decreasing the load on the joints (long-term static load has a particularly negative effect);
- Timely identification and treatment of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
- Avoid hypothermia of joints;
- In old age, it is possible to use a cane or a walker to relieve the joints when walking;
- Rejection of bad habits (tobacco smoking, drinking alcohol).
- For the prevention of DOA, chondroprotectors are prescribed.
The main components of chondroprotectors are:
- Chondroitin sulfates are cartilage components that normalize metabolism in cartilage tissue. Stimulate the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid;
- Glucosamine – stimulates the production of own chondroitin, relieves inflammation.
Currently, there are many drugs of this series. The difference between them is in the percentage composition of the components and the degree of purification. For a noticeable therapeutic or preventive effect, chondroprotectors are usually prescribed in long courses, which must be taken 1-2 times a year.
There are constant disputes about the effectiveness of this group of drugs. Therefore, they should be taken only after consulting a doctor.
Related services:
Orthopaedics and traumatology
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