Osteoarthritis encompasses diseases of various etiologies characterized by complete joint damage - cartilage, parts of the bone near the cartilage, ligaments, capsule, and muscles adjacent to the joint.
Causes
The cause of joint damage is primarily excessive load that it cannot withstand. The capabilities of the cartilage are limited genetically or as a result of changes in its characteristics.
The causes that lead to joint damage may include:
- high body mass
- estrogen deficiency in women
- acquired joint and bone tissue diseases
- joint injuries
- surgical operations on joints.
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
A characteristic symptom of osteoarthritis is pain after exertion, which subsides after rest or sleep. This is related to the reduction of the cushioning characteristics of the cartilage and surrounding structures. Patients often complain of nighttime pain, which is a consequence of venous stasis and increased pressure within the bone. A characteristic feature of osteoarthritis is pain upon loading and its disappearance during active activity. Such pain arises due to the friction of joint surfaces, where remnants of bone and cartilage destruction (debris) settle. After movement begins, the debris shifts into the folds of the joint capsule, which alleviates the pain.
Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis in Israel
To confirm or refute the diagnosis of osteoarthritis in Israel, the following tests and examinations are conducted:
- blood tests – general and biochemical
- X-ray
- joint ultrasound
- arthroscopy.
Treatment of Osteoarthritis in Israel
For the treatment of osteoarthritis in Israel, in addition to medication therapy, lifestyle and diet must be adjusted. To reduce the load on the damaged joints, it is necessary to eliminate traumatic factors. This primarily includes excess weight and excessive physical activity. Medication therapy for osteoarthritis may include drugs such as diclofenac, ibuprofen. If the joint damage is isolated, local medications – ointments, creams (chondroitin sulfate, chondroxide) – are used. If there is joint effusion, intra-articular corticosteroid injections are administered. Physiotherapeutic procedures in the treatment of osteoarthritis may include electro-sleep, electrophoresis, ultrasound exposure, and laser therapy. Patients are recommended to visit resorts with hydrogen sulfide springs and therapeutic muds.