Osteoarthritis is a destructive-dystrophic change in the cartilage and connective tissue of the joint, adjacent bone tissues, and synovial membrane, resulting from metabolic process disturbances in the body, and is chronic in nature.
Causes
Idiopathic (primary) osteoarthritis is identified, which has no clear prerequisites. Secondary osteoarthritis can be caused by a number of factors: fractures, dislocations, and other injuries, congenital pathological changes in the joint, metabolic disorders, immune system diseases, inflammation and infections, certain endocrine system diseases, hemophilia, Perthes disease, etc. Age-related and hormonal changes, surgeries, injuries, and joint load, deficiency of trace elements in the body, excess weight, heredity, environment, toxins, and hypothermia also influence the development of osteoarthritis.
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is characterized by a gradual development. In the early stages, the patient may experience mild pain, and there is a crunching sound in the joints during movement. Unpleasant sensitivity of the joint and stagnation may occur after remaining in one position for some time. Later, pain at night and during weather changes arises. As the disease progresses, pain and crunching become constant and pronounced. The joint deforms, limping occurs, muscle spasms, and difficulties in movement arise, up to the necessity of relying on crutches while walking. The area around the joint becomes painful and swollen. Deformity of the limbs may occur due to severe joint deformation and instability.
Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis in Israel
The diagnosis of osteoarthritis begins with establishing the clinical picture of the disease. Based on the initial examination in Israel, the doctor prescribes an X-ray of the affected joint. If the X-ray examination is insufficient, the patient undergoes magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the soft tissues and computed tomography (CT) of the bone tissues of the joint. Alongside the main examination, the patient receives consultations from specialists according to the presumed causes of the disease's development.
Treatment of Osteoarthritis in Israel
The treatment process for osteoarthritis is a comprehensive set of medical and physiotherapeutic measures in Israel, aimed at stopping cartilage destruction and preserving joint functionality. Additionally, the patient should avoid serious loads on the joint, carrying heavy weights, and staying in one position for long periods. In cases of obesity, weight loss is a necessary condition.
Prevention
Balanced nutrition, careful attention to one's health, avoidance of harmful habits, and timely consultation with a doctor will serve as barriers to the development of the disease.