Grade 1 osteoarthritis of the knee joint is not difficult to treat if symptoms are detected in time and a doctor is consulted. It is a destructive disease that affects cartilage and causes it to collapse. There are 4 stages of development, the first of which is the initial stage. The developing disease leads to disruption of the musculoskeletal system and complete cessation of joint mobility.
Causes of inflammation
The following factors are responsible for the appearance and development of gonarthrosis:
- metabolic diseases in the body, articular fluid in the knee;
- overweight that puts pressure on the limbs and causes cartilage wear;
- past infectious diseases of the joints, inflammation, arthritis;
- bruises, cuts, fractures, postoperative complications;
- genetic predisposition.
Osteoarthritis occurs in adulthood (after 45). However, young people under the age of 30 are more likely to get the disease. Causes of "rejuvenation" of the disease can be excessive physical activity, excessive stress, injury. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies in the diet also contribute to the development of degenerative changes in the knee joint.
Symptoms: how to explain?
Arthrosis of the 1st degree knee joint has its own characteristics:
- minor pain during activity, prolonged walking and running, cessation of pain at rest;
- poor joint mobility, difficulty in movement;
- Knee crisis during bending and stretching.
Waking up in the morning is often accompanied by slight swelling and stiffness of the joint, symptoms that diminish during the day. In the evening, the pain may intensify and the appearance of edema will be added to the symptoms. Painful pain also occurs due to sudden changes in weather and pressure. Meteosensitivity is a common but optional symptom of gonarthrosis. The initial stage of the disease is characterized by narrowing of the joint spaces, softening of the cartilage tissue of the knee.
Complications
Ignoring symptoms and lack of treatment can lead to secondary to secondary disease. In the acute stage, circulatory disorders turn the swelling into inflammation, which complicates treatment. The nature of the intensifying pain also changes: the painful sensations turn into tingling sensations.
Diagnostics
Test results can indicate the presence of an inflammatory process.
It is prescribed by the attending physician and consists of three stages:
- knee examination;
- request for analysis;
- X-ray transmission.
It is very difficult to recognize the disease in the early stages. Often there are no obvious symptoms of blindness.
Consultation with a doctor can confirm or deny the initial diagnosis. Gonoarthritis cannot be completely cured; it is only possible to slow the progression of the disease and reduce the anxiety that hinders a full life.
Treatment of first-degree osteoarthritis
Massage procedures
In the early stages of the disease, the manual method is an effective and useful solution in the fight against gonarthrosis. Kneading the affected area improves blood circulation and eliminates edema. Completing a full course can minimize the onset of symptoms and strengthen cartilage tissue. Knee joint massage can be done by the patient's relatives or by himself. However, it is recommended to consult a specialist for a better result.
Medications
Destructive changes in the foot cause a lot of anxiety and prevent a full life. To reduce pain and eliminate inflammation, the doctor prescribes chondroprotectors that prevent the destruction of cartilage and gradually restore its integrity.
Taking non-steroidal medications will relieve pain and swelling, but these medications are not suitable for treatment. Ointments and gels improve joint nutrition and metabolism, making them comfortable and effective to use.
Exercise therapy for first-degree osteoarthritis of the knee joint
It is recommended not to load the joint without consulting a specialist. The physical therapist will select the optimal exercises based on the symptoms and severity of the disease. Exercise therapy is used in the early stages and in the absence of pain. The acute phase sometimes requires wearing a knee pad, straightening the bandage joint in a passive position, restricting mobility, and reducing cartilage stress.
Traditional medicine
It is recommended not to use hot compresses for inflammatory processes, as too much heat in the knee can lead to purulent complications.
Folk remedies vary and include anesthetic infusions and anti-inflammatory rubs.
Cabbage, maple and burdock leaves eliminate swelling and honey massage nourishes the affected area.
A compress made of apple cider vinegar diluted with turpentine should be placed on the knee and rolled overnight, in addition to wrapping the affected area with a warm cloth.
Methods of prevention
You can prevent the development of gonarthrosis by following a few rules:
- Do not overcool the joints;
- control your weight, don't eat too much;
- dose physical activity;
- to engage in gymnastic exercises;
- Treat injuries in a timely manner.
It is recommended to change the diet by eliminating excess cholesterol, flour products, sweets from the menu. Reduce salt intake. Avoiding injuries is also important to prevent knee pain. At the first signs of inflammation in the cartilage tissue, you should immediately consult a doctor to begin timely treatment of the disease.