Restoration of articular cartilage. Joint injections to restore cartilage tissue

Joint cartilage damage can begin as early as 30 years of age. When conducting research on the cartilaginous surface, splits and fractures are found. Splitting can occur both horizontally and vertically. vertical direction. The body begins to react to destructive processes, due to which the patient begins to experience an accumulation of cartilage tissue cells. age disorders cartilage tissue of the knee joint can be seen already at the age of 40.

In the world great amount people suffer from various articular cartilage defects. According to studies, every year there are thousands of patients who are diagnosed with damage to the cartilage tissue of the knee joint. Such damage can occur due to age-related wear and sometimes due to sports injuries. When a patient refuses to receive treatment, this leads to a marked decrease quality of life. In some cases, the patient begins to experience constant severe pain at the slightest movement of the legs. As a result, the patient can be diagnosed with arthrosis - a chronic painful disease of the joints with their permanent deformation. Joints are called movable joints of the bones of the skeleton, involved in the movement of bone levers, the movement of the body and maintaining it in the desired position. People suffer from diseases of the joints since ancient times.

The main causes of cartilage destruction

The main cause of joint disease is wrong exchange substances resulting from unbalanced nutrition and wrong lifestyle. The reason may be the abuse of smoking, alcohol, fatty and fried foods, the lack of vitamins and minerals needed by the body in the diet, poor physical activity, and poor working conditions.

Often diseases of the articular cartilage occur due to infectious lesions joints. Chronic hypothermia of the joints also provokes the onset and development of the disease. The inflammatory process in the knee joint can begin due to a violation of the permeability of the vascular wall.

Even a minor injury to the knee joint can lead to the development and exacerbation of the disease. Joint pain affects both men and women.

But in men, diseases of the spine are more common, and in women - diseases of the peripheral joints.

Articular cartilage in the knee joint plays a very important role in human movement. It is a strong, elastic, smooth gasket, the main functions of which are:

• load distribution when walking;
• ensuring easy sliding of bones relative to each other.

The development of articular cartilage disease of the knee

When negative factors appear, the cartilage becomes rough, becomes significantly thinner, and in some cases even dries out and becomes covered with cracks. Soft sliding becomes impossible, instead of it there is a strong friction, the surfaces of the joints begin to cling to each other. If untreated, the degeneration process continues. With reduced depreciation, the bones begin to flatten out, thereby increasing the articular area. The patient can observe the appearance of osteophytes - bone growths that look like growths.

Due to the lack of pumping and mobility, it begins to atrophy, becomes thick, viscous. This leads to a weakening of the supply of useful nutrients to the cartilage tissue, which greatly worsens the patient's condition.

Due to the thinning of the cartilage, the distance between the articulating bones is significantly reduced. When walking begins a strong friction of the joints. Destructive processes continue to progress more and more. The patient begins to feel morning stiffness, a painful condition. This happens both during exercise and at rest. Particularly pronounced painful symptoms become when walking up the stairs. To protect painful leg, the person begins to limp. In advanced cases, the patient can no longer move without a cane or crutches.

With an advanced degree of arthrosis, cartilage tissue is almost completely destroyed. No ointments and preparations will help restore cartilage tissue, in this case only surgery can help.

How to restore the cartilage tissue of the joint?

Surprisingly, the cartilage tissue of the knee joint is designed in such a way that it can be very easily damaged even with a load of 1 kg applied in the wrong place. This will never happen if the joint is enclosed in a strong corset of ligaments that holds the bone in place.

Restoration of the cartilage of the knee joint is possible only upon admission enough nutrients to cartilage. During the day, the knees bend and unbend a huge number of times. If there is a lack of lubrication - synovial fluid, then the adjacent joints will increasingly destroy each other.

There is practically no blood flow to the knee joint (there are no capillaries in the articular cartilage). In the absence of proper nutrition, the growth and restoration of cartilage become impossible. To support its existence, cartilage tissue is forced to take the microelements and vitamins it needs from the synovial fluid.

In order for cartilage tissue regeneration to proceed faster, it is necessary to maintain a high level of chondrocytes, the main cells of cartilage tissue. This is ensured by adequate nutrition, which is possible through the synovial fluid. However, if the knee joint remains stationary, the nutrients will not be able to penetrate the tissue. The restoration of cartilage joints is almost entirely dependent on motor activity.

The first thing to do is to review your diet. Should be taken exclusively natural products. However, this does not mean that only plant-based foods should be eaten. First of all, it is necessary to exclude the intake of carbonated water, fast food, overcooked fatty foods. They not only reduce the level of acidity in gastrointestinal tract but also interfere with the production of growth hormones. Eating should be done 5-6 times a day. Portions should be small or medium.

The amount of growth hormones in the blood directly depends on the intensity of training. The more intense the classes, the faster the restoration of the cartilage tissue of the joints will take place. However, do not overdo it. After training, there should not be a feeling of exhaustion, a vigorous state of the body should remain. In case of damage to the joint, the intensity of the exercises should be discussed with the doctor. He will tell you exactly what exercises to do. Any workout should include warming up the damaged joint and spine.

In the treatment of knee arthrosis, it is necessary to choose the right set of measures to cure the disease. First of all, you should install correct diagnosis. The sooner treatment is started, the greater the chance of a quick recovery. Painkillers should only be taken as directed by a doctor. In case of violation of the cartilage tissue of the knee joint, chondoprotectors are taken, thanks to which there is a rapid recovery of damaged cartilage tissues. Additionally, warming ointments, anti-inflammatory creams and vasodilators are taken. The attending physician may prescribe the imposition of various compresses on the painful joint, as well as injections and physiotherapy.

Do not forget that medications do not treat arthrosis of the knee joint, but only help get rid of the unpleasant symptoms of the disease. Many of them have side effects, and their long-term use is undesirable.

Painkillers should be taken only for very acute pain, as they negatively affect the joint.

Treatment of knee joints with folk remedies

One of the most common is applying gruel from grated radish and horseradish to the sore spot. When applied, it should be well rubbed into the skin. An effective recipe is oil with salt. To prepare it, you need to take 10 ml fir oil and warm up a bit. Dip a cloth in warm oil and sprinkle a layer of salt on top. The salty side is applied to the sore spot, covered with a bag and wrapped elastic bandage for the night. The course of treatment is 1 week (compresses should be done every day).

Additionally, you should take diuretic herbs that will relieve swelling and inflammation. These fit well medicinal herbs, How kidney tea, nettle, corn silk, horsetail, dandelion root. 1 st. l. any herb is brewed in a glass of boiling water. Take the infusion should be 3 times a day.

100 g of hazel leaves should be poured with 3 cups of alcohol and infused for 3 weeks in a dark place at room temperature. This tincture used for rubbing and preparing compresses for the night. You can pass 200 g of elecampane and burdock through a meat grinder, pour it all into 1 liter medical alcohol and insist 3 weeks in a dark place. The tincture can be used 3 times a week. For prevention, it is useful to drink a drink with chicory or tea with lingonberry leaves. Burlap, which is impregnated with propolis, can be applied to diseased joints.

With acute pain in the knee joint, chestnut tincture helps well. To prepare it, 600 g of chopped chestnuts are poured into 1 liter of vodka and infused for 2 weeks, while shaking daily. This infusion is rubbed on sore joints in the evening before going to bed.

Joint diseases are the most widespread in the world.

Long-term chronic joint pathologies usually lead to dystrophic changes cartilage, for the restoration of which chondoprotectors are used.

The action of these drugs is aimed at stimulating the production of joint lubrication and the formation of new cartilage tissue cells, which is why today they are the main treatment for joint diseases.

The role of the joints and the causes of their destruction

The joints are movable mechanical joints designed to change the position of the body in space, so the destruction of the joints is not only accompanied by pain, but can also lead to complete immobility.

The group of arthrosis includes several diseases, which, according to the tenth international classification are considered synonyms: arthrosis, osteoarthritis, osteoarthritis and deforming arthrosis. Coxarthrosis stands apart.

In some cases, untreated inflammatory diseases can result in complete destruction of the articular tendon, bursa, or cartilage.

Diseases that destroy joints can be caused by:

• injuries and regular microtraumas;
• age-related changes;
• genetic predisposition;
• excess weight, leading to permanent injury to the joint;
• hormonal or metabolic disorders;
• regular intake harmful substances(caffeine, nicotine and alcohol) or drugs (corticosteroids);
• anatomical features of the skeletal structure or diseases of the spine that contribute to an uneven distribution of the load on the joints (for example, scoliosis, hip dysplasia or congenital hip dislocations);
• infectious process;
• neurological disorders in the limbs;
• circulatory disorders in the joint.

Disorders in the functioning of the joints can be caused not by one, but by a combination of several risk factors.

What it is?

A moistened layer of cartilage tissue lines all articular surfaces.

The synovial fluid produced by cartilage cells during movement acts as a lubricant. The higher the motor activity in the joint, the stronger the production of lubrication, which, in turn, feeds the cartilage again.

If the cartilage begins to break down, the adjacent bone tissue is exposed with a rough, rough surface that damages the opposite cartilage.

As a result, there is a further violation of the production of synovial fluid, leading to the gradual death of cartilage tissue and loss of joint function.

To stop the development of this process and called preparations - chondoprotectors, which include substances similar to those produced healthy body necessary for the production of synovial fluid and promote the regeneration of cartilage tissue.

The action of drugs has a number of features:

• the effect comes very slowly, not earlier than six months after the start of treatment;
• effect is only visible on initial stages diseases when the cartilage has not lost its ability to regenerate.

Indications and contraindications

Chondoprotectors are indicated for diseases and injuries associated with the destruction of articular cartilage:

• arthrosis (coxarthrosis, gonarthrosis, arthrosis of small joints);
• arthritis, periarthritis and osteochondrosis;
• spondylosis;
• dystrophic changes in articular cartilage;
• joint injuries;
• V recovery periods after operations on the joints;
• periodontitis.

Contraindications to the use of chondoprotectors:

• pregnancy;
• lactation;
• allergic reactions to drug ingredients.

With extreme caution, some chondoprotectors should be prescribed to patients with diabetes mellitus and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

List of funds, their classification and characteristics

Chondroprotectors for new generation joints include one of two active ingredients:

• chondroitin sulfate;
• glucosamine.

Medicines are produced in the form of:

• tablets, capsules and powders for oral administration;
• solutions for injections;
• ointments, creams and gels.

There are several classifications of drugs.

According to the time of appearance and application, 3 generations are distinguished:

1. rumalon, alflutop;
2. glucosamines, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate;
3. chondroitin sulfate + hydrochloride.

Another classification divides them into groups according to chemical composition drugs:

• with chondroitin sulfate (chondroitin sulfuric acid): chonsuride; chondrolone; mucosate; chondroxide; structum; chondrex and artron;
• from the bone marrow and cartilage of fish and animals: rumalon; alflutop;
• mucopolysaccharides (arteparone);
• with glucosamine: don; artron flex;
• complex composition: formula-C, teraflex; artron complex;
• arthrodarin, which combines chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties.

The names of the most common chondoprotectors: artra, alflutop, dona, teraflex, piascledin, rumalon, structum, horsepower, artradol, mucosate, chondroxide, elbona, traumeel, shark cartilage.

Artra

Artra refers to drugs taken orally that reduce pain and are capable of restoring the cartilage tissue of the intervertebral joints in the early stages of the disease.

The drug is used for osteochondrosis, intervertebral hernias and in postoperative period.

It is produced in the USA in the form of tablets in packs of 30 to 100 pieces, contains chondroitin and glucosamine, is easily digestible, and is prescribed in courses for 1-2 months.

Alflutop

Alflutop is produced in Romania as a solution for intramuscular injections for rapid absorption by the body.

From 10 to 20 injections are prescribed, after which the patient is transferred to tablets. The drug is an extract from black marine fish.

It is prescribed for arthrosis, osteochondrosis, spondylosis, periarthritis, joint injuries.

Don

Dona is available in Italy as an oral glucosamine powder and injectable solution.

The effect of the action of the tablets occurs no earlier than after three months, a stable effect is noticeable after six months.

The drug is well absorbed and has no side effects.

Teraflex

Teraflex is complex drug English company "Sagmel" in the form of capsules and cream to enhance the effect.

The package contains from 30 to 120 capsules, which reduce pain and promote the regeneration of damaged tissue in the early stages of the disease.

Piascledin

Piascledin is available in capsules of 30 or 15 capsules per pack of 100 or 200 milligrams.

The drug regulates the metabolism in cartilaginous tissues and slows down their degenerative changes, reduces pain, stimulates the production of collagen and proteoglycans.

Prescribed for adjuvant treatment of periodontitis and complex therapy osteoarthritis of the hip and knee joints.

Rumalon

Rumalon is available as a solution for injections. The drug is a purified extract of cartilage tissue and bone marrow of calves.

It is prescribed for necrosis of the cartilage of the patella, osteoarthritis, for diseases of the lining of the knee cartilage, spondylosis and spondylarthrosis.

Structum

Structum is produced by the French company Sotex in capsules with a dosage of 250 and 500 milligrams.

The drug improves the metabolism in the cartilage of the joint, their recovery and is a complex mucopolysaccharide obtained from the tracheal cartilage of young chickens.

Structum accelerates the healing of bones in osteoporosis and fractures.

It is also prescribed in the treatment of osteochondrosis of the spine, osteoarthritis, arthropathy.

Horsepower

Horsepower is available as a powder of 280 grams per jar, as well as in the form of ointments and gels for joints with anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

The drug improves the function of the joints, stops the process of their aging due to the extract of boswellia contained in it - a natural chondoprotector of plant origin.

The effect is shown in 4-6 days after the beginning of application.

Artadol

Artadol - Russian drug regulating metabolism in cartilaginous tissues.

Available in ampoules of 100 milligrams and is a chondroitin sulfate - the main component of the cartilage matrix.

The drug promotes the regeneration of the cartilaginous surfaces of the joints, normalizes the production of joint fluid and prevents the destruction of connective tissue.

The Russian chondoprotector Mukosat is available as a solution for intramuscular injection in ampoules of 100 and 200 milligrams and in the form of capsules and tablets.

It is prescribed for primary arthrosis, intervertebral osteoarthritis and osteoarthritis with more than large joints, with fractures, periodontopathies, osteoporosis, in the postoperative period after surgical interventions on the joints.

Chondroxide

Chondroxide is available in the form of gels, ointments and tablets.

Tablets slow down the development of osteochondrosis and osteoarthritis, normalize the metabolism of cartilaginous tissues, stimulate the processes of restoration of articular cartilage, reduce pain, increase joint mobility, while maintaining a long-term therapeutic effect.

Ointments and gels have an anti-inflammatory effect and stimulate the regeneration of joint tissues.

Elbon

Elbon is a solution of three types (glucosamine, solvent and dissolved drug) for intramuscular injections with active substance glucosamine, designed to correct the metabolism of cartilage and bone tissue.

The drug is prescribed for arthritis, arthrosis, spondylosis, osteoarthritis and spondyloarthrosis.

Traumeel

Traumeel is a homeopathic remedy with anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and regenerating effects and is available in tablets, injections, ointments and gels.

Refers to first aid drugs for sprains and injuries.

It is prescribed for spondyloiditis, periarthritis, tendovaginitis, rheumatoid arthritis, biositis, hemarthrosis, osteochondrosis.

Ointments and gels are also used for hemorrhages in joint bag.

Shark cartilage

Shark cartilage is not a medical product.

This is a food bioactive supplement produced in capsules by three American manufacturers and containing mucopolysaccharides, protein, calcium phosphorus, zinc, etc.

Shark cartilage strengthens the ligamentous apparatus, increases the elasticity of vascular muscles, tones and improves immunity.

It is prescribed for arthritis and arthrosis.

The best chondroprotectors

For the knee joint

In addition to taking drugs inside, as well as funds in the form of external ointments and intramuscular injections, there are chondroprotectors for injection into the joint, based on hyaluronic acid:

• fermatron;
• synokrom;
• synvisc;
• alflutop;
• walled.

The drugs of this group are substitutes for intra-articular fluid and are injected into large joints.

Most often, drugs are injected into the knee joints, less often into the hip joints.

The course of treatment includes up to five injections every six months, but one may be sufficient.

With arthrosis of the hip joint

In the treatment of arthrosis of the hip joints (coxarthrosis), it is possible to administer the same drugs as in the knee joint, but with X-ray control due to the complex structure of the joint.

With spondylarthrosis

Spondyloarthrosis (facet arthropathy, arthrosis of the intervertebral joints) is a form of osteoarthritis affecting the joints of the spine.

Dystrophic changes capture the cartilage of the vertebral joints, the articular bag, and the periarticular areas of the bones.

A good effect in this case can be achieved by the appointment of rumalon, structum or elbon.

For hand joints

The joints of the hands and fingers are most often affected by arthritis and arthrosis, which can be cured by chondroprotectors in the early stages of the disease.

Early administration of glucosamine sulfate (artron flex, dona, KONDRONOVA) improves joint lubrication.

It is possible to use chondroprotectors: structum, chondroxide, traumeel, shark cartilage, alflutop.

What form of drugs is most effective?

It is best to determine the form in which chondoprotectors should be used, guided by the doctor's prescription.

Usually, the course of treatment begins with intramuscular or intraarticular injections, continues with oral medications with simultaneous application topical ointments, creams or gels.

Injections (shots)

The group of drugs for intramuscular injections includes:

• adgelon;
• noltrex;
• chondrolone;
• alflutop;
• Elbon, etc.

Intramuscular administration gives a faster effect than oral administration, and is carried out in courses of ten to twenty injections.

To chondoprotectors for internal use drugs include:

• structum,
• don,
• piascledin,
• formula-C,
• artra,
• teraflex.

Their action is of a distant nature and begins to give a visible effect after 3 months, and a stable effect - six months after the start of treatment.

Ointment

Ointments, creams and gels relieve swelling and inflammation of the joint, reduce the feeling of pain and stimulate the regeneration of joint tissues.

For external use are used:

• Horsepower,
• chondroxide,
• toad stone,
• traumel.

Ointment and gel traumeel is used in the presence of hemorrhage in the articular bag.

Reception features

The use of chondoprotectors is most effective in the early stages of joint diseases.

Treatment is carried out for a long time by course methods, because the process of cartilage tissue restoration is not carried out quickly. With early termination of treatment, further destruction of cartilage is possible.

On average, treatment lasts up to one and a half, sometimes up to three years.

Chondroprotectors are easily tolerated even with long-term use and have virtually no serious side effects.

How to choose a drug?

The choice of chondoprotectors is quite wide and complex, so you should not self-medicate.

Doctors, depending on the diagnosis and stage of the disease, most often prescribe: arthr, don, structum, teraflex, alflutop, elbon, chondrolon, chondroitin, formula-C, KONDRONova, toad stone.

Prices

Treatment is quite expensive.

A monthly course costs an average of one and a half to four thousand rubles.

The cost of treatment can be reduced after consultation with a doctor and replacement of drugs separate reception components.

For example, the cost of a package of don chondroprotector (with the main active ingredient glucosamine) is about a thousand rubles, while glucosamine separately costs about three hundred rubles, like chondrotin.

Reviews

Reviews of physicians and patients are controversial.

There are also positive reviews of patients and doctors about complete healing, there are also negative reviews about the complete uselessness of drugs.

Doctors' opinion

In accordance with the regulations, chondroprotectors are not mandatory in the preparation of courses for the treatment of joint diseases.

In this regard, some doctors do not consider it possible to prescribe them, and some consider them as a necessary attribute of treatment.

To resolve the contradiction, studies were carried out on the active substances included in chondroprotectors: glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate:

• with prolonged use of chondroitin sulfate (more than five weeks), a positive trend was noted;
• the effect of the use of glucosamine appeared after two weeks and lasted a month or more, and after five or six courses over three years, a lasting effect was observed.

Patient opinion

Negative feedback from patients is mainly associated with the short duration of admission or late visits to the doctor.

Most patients who are conscientious about the doctor's recommendations give positive feedback:

Expert opinion

Vitaly Markelov, surgeon:

Many already recognize the benefits of taking chondoprotectors, but not everyone has the patience for long-term treatment and carrying out the whole complex of measures to improve articular circulation.

Chondoprotectors have shown themselves well in combination with massage, exercise therapy, physiotherapy and other drugs.

The result also depends on the individual approach to the patient, depending on the disease and its severity and the general condition of the patient.

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What Happens in Osteoarthritis of the Knee?

The articular cartilage plays a very important role for human movement, it is a strong, elastic, normally smooth pad, the function of which is to ensure easy sliding of the articulating bones relative to each other, as well as to distribute the load and shock absorption when a person walks.

But, in the event of provoking factors - injuries, prolonged muscle spasms, metabolic disorders in the body, with a genetic disposition, with regular excessive loads etc., the cartilage becomes rough, becomes thinner, seems to dry out and even becomes covered with cracks. In this case, instead of soft sliding, strong friction occurs, the surfaces of the joint literally cling to each other, the first degree of arthrosis begins, when the cartilage loses its cushioning properties.

Further, the process of degeneration does not stop, but slowly progresses, with a decrease in depreciation, the bones gradually begin to flatten out, as if to increase the joint area, osteophytes appear - bone growths, when the degenerated tissue increases, forming outgrowths. This is already the second degree of arthrosis, while both the capsule and the warping shell of the joint undergo regeneration, from lack of movement and pumping, the structure of the knee joint atrophies, the joint fluid becomes more viscous, thicker, and the supply of nutrients to the cartilage weakens, which further worsens the condition .

Due to the thinning of the cartilage lining, the distance between the articulating bones is reduced by up to 80%. Therefore, when walking from the resulting abnormal friction without a shock absorber, the destruction of the joint begins to grow rapidly, quickly leading to the third degree of arthrosis of the knee joint, while the symptoms in patients are very pronounced:

• Morning stiffness, soreness both at rest and during exertion
• Pain on movement, especially when going up and down stairs
• The person begins to limp, sparing the diseased limb
• In severe cases, a person can only walk with a cane or crutches

With the third degree of arthrosis, joint mobility can be reduced to a minimum, since there is practically no full-fledged cartilage tissue left, so no super drugs, ointments, medicines or magical methods will not be able to restore the lost cartilage tissue, and due to bone deformation, the joint cannot function normally. In this case, only surgical treatment is possible.

Treatment Methods

With conservative therapeutic drug treatment of knee arthrosis, it is very important to carry out combined therapy in such a way as to simultaneously solve several problems:

• The first condition of treatment is to establish the correct diagnosis as early as possible. The sooner treatment is started, the greater the chance successful treatment and prolongation of the remission period with least consequences and cartilage destruction
• You must take painkillers as prescribed by your doctor
• To accelerate the recovery of cartilage, it is necessary to improve its nutrition
• In the joint area, blood circulation should be activated
• Strengthen the muscles surrounding the affected joint
• Reduce pressure on the articular areas of the bones, strive to increase the distance between them
• Increase joint mobility.

Therefore, the main methods of treatment of arthrosis include:

• Taking NSAIDs
• In case of arthrosis of the knee joint, preparations are indicated - chondoprotectors that restore cartilage tissue
• Vasodilators, warming ointments and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory creams, ointments
• Desensitizing drugs (Suprastin, Cetrin, see allergy tablets)
• Carrying out various compresses on the joint
• joint injections
• Manual therapy and physiotherapy
• Performing a special set of exercises
• Spa treatment

Medical treatment

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

To eliminate pain, as well as relieve inflammation, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are traditionally prescribed, since it is impossible to start treatment with pain. NSAIDs on the pharmaceutical market are now presented in a large assortment, both in tablet form, ointments, and injections:

• Celecoxib - Celebrex
• Etoricoxib - Arcoxia
• Tenoxicam - Texamen
• Nimesulide - Nise, Nimulide, Nimika
• Naprxen — Nalgezin
• Meloxicam - Movalis, Artrozan, Meloxicam
• Ketorolac - Ketanov, Ketarol, Ketorolac
• Ketoprofen - Artrozilen, Bystrumkaps, Ketonal, Flexen
• Ibuprofen - Burana, Faspik, Ibuprofen, Nurofen
• Diclofenac - Voltaren, Naklofen, Ortofen, Diklak

It should be understood that these drugs do not treat arthrosis of the knee joint, but only eliminate some of the symptoms of the disease, especially since they have a number of side effects and their long-term use is unacceptable.

Their prolonged use is dangerous not only because of side effects, but it has been proven that these drugs affect the synthesis of proteoglycans, leading to dehydration of cartilage tissue with prolonged exposure.

Therefore, the use of NSAIDs should be taken very seriously, used only in cases of severe pain. Taking a pill for pain relief, the patient can thus gradually accelerate the process of destruction of the joint. For more information about NSAIDs, their classification, contraindications, side effects, see our article Injections for back pain.

Preparations for the restoration of cartilage - tablets, injections, creams

Of course, when the cartilage tissue is already severely destroyed, at the 3rd stage of the disease, Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, which restore the structure and nourish the cartilage tissue, are ineffective for the treatment of arthrosis of the joints. But with 1-2 degrees of development of arthrosis - chondroprotectors are the most necessary, useful drugs for therapy.

It is chondroprotectors for arthrosis of the knee joint that bring the greatest benefit, they have practically no contraindications and they very rarely give side effects. However, their action is different, for example, glucosamine stimulates natural mechanisms for the restoration of cartilage, as if it starts the production of the main elements of cartilage, which subsequently prevents their destruction.

Chondroitin sulfate, on the other hand, has the property of neutralizing enzymes that corrode cartilage tissue, and stimulates the growth of collagen protein, in addition, it helps to saturate cartilage tissue with water, increasing the ability of proteoglycans to retain and retain water.

Moreover, most doctors insist on the complex effect of chondroprotectors and conducting several courses a year, since a one-time admission or a single course does not lead to the desired result. In addition, one should not overly exaggerate the possibilities of these drugs in the treatment of arthrosis, yes they are effective, but in cases where the destruction process has gone too far, it is no longer possible to grow a new healthy cartilage tissue and you should not rely on chondoprotectors, with 3 degrees of arthrosis it most often helps only surgical treatment.

Moreover, even with 1-2 degrees, chondroprotectors have a slow effect, do not lead to improvement immediately, so at least 2-3 courses per year are required. Also, doctors recommend adhering to the following rules when using chondroprotectors:

• Use glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate in combination, and not separately
• Conduct courses 2-3 times a year, or six months in a row.
• During the course, observe doses - daily dose of chondroitin sulfate - 1000 mg, glucosamine 1500-1000 mg.

Chondroitin - presented in pharmacy chains in the form of tablets, injections and ointments:

• in ampoules - Mucosat (300-500 rubles, 5 ampoules), Chondrolon (800-900 rubles), Artradol (700 rubles), Chondrogard (1100 rubles), Chondroitite sulfate (300 rubles), Chondrolone (800 rubles)
• in tablets - Structum (about 1000 rubles), Chondroitin (300 rubles), Chondroxide (450 rubles)
• ointments, gels - Chondroitin (80 rubles), Chondroxide (300 rubles)

Glucosamine

• in injections - Dona (1100 rubles), Elbona (700 rubles)
• in capsules, sachets - Ellastenga active glucosamine(120 caps. 2500 rubles), Dona powder (1200 rubles), Stoparthrosis powder (700 rubles)
• gel - Ellastenga (400-500 rubles)

Combined drugs - which include both glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate:

• in tablets - Artra (600-1500 rubles), Doppelherz glucosamine and chondroitin active capsules (300 rubles), Teraflex (700-1000 rubles), Glucosamine and chondroitin (250-300 rubles), Naches bounty complex (500 rubles), Kondronova capsules (350 rubles), Toad stone chondoprotector Sustamed (130 rubles), Solgar (2000 rubles)
• cream — Honda (150 rubles)

Vasodilator drugs

These include Trental - Agapurin (150-200 rubles), Vasonid Retard (300 rubles), Pentoxifylline (60 rubles), Trental (160-1000 rubles), as well as the well-known Xanthinol nicotinate, teonikol - these drugs are quite useful in complex treatment because they relieve spasm small vessels, improve blood circulation in the joint, improve nutrient delivery and eliminate possible vascular pain. They also need to be taken in combination with chondroprotectors.

Also, in order to improve blood circulation, if arthrosis is not accompanied by synovitis (fluid accumulation), then the doctor may recommend the use of warming ointments and liquids such as Espol, Menovazin, Nikoflex-cream, Gevkamen - they give a feeling of comfort and warmth, rarely give side effects.

Gymnastics for osteoarthritis of the knee

With arthrosis of the knee joint, treatment, drugs, gymnastics, ointments, compresses - everything should be prescribed only by the attending physician. Therapeutic exercises should be performed slowly, without jerking, jumping, twisting the joint, without squats. It is best to do it in the morning for 20 minutes, lying down or sitting, 10 repetitions of each exercise.

Tasks of medical exercise- this is the prevention of further destruction of cartilage, the progression of the disease, slow down the development of stiffness, increase blood supply to the joint, relax the muscle spasm that causes pain. During an exacerbation of the disease, you can not do gymnastics.

• Lying on your back, straighten your legs, arms along the body - you can perform the bicycle exercise, only straighten your legs parallel to the floor, make circular movements with your feet, or strain them, counting to 10, while exhaling, pull your legs to your chest with your hands, returning to the starting position while inhaling, take them away to the side, sliding along the floor, first one foot, then the other.
• Sitting on a chair, legs lowered - straighten your legs while bending your feet, holding this position for 10 counts, pulling each knee in turn to your stomach, supporting with your hands and returning to the starting position.
• Standing on the floor with support against the wall, swing back and forth alternately with each leg.
• Standing near a chair - put one leg on a chair, it should be completely straightened, in the direction of this leg, perform springy movements-tilts, resting your hands on your thigh, while trying to straighten your leg more.
• Lying on your stomach - alternately raise each leg in a straightened state, holding up to 3 counts.
• Sitting on the floor - spread your legs to the sides, sliding along the floor, and also pull the knees of both legs to the stomach as you exhale, and return to the starting position as you inhale.

zdravotvet.ru

Why is the destruction of cartilage tissue of the joints?

in a disastrous way on skeletal system some diseases affect, for example, arthritis, arthrosis, intervertebral hernia, dysplasia. In addition, injuries, inflammatory processes, collagen synthesis and age-related decline in the function of chondrocytes, which are the basic cells of cartilage tissue, negatively affect.

Thanks to the synovial fluid that fills the joint cavity, about ensures ease and smoothness of joint movement and prevent surface friction. This fluid nourishes the cartilage, and when loaded, it protrudes through its fibers and pores. At present, a big breakthrough has been made in medicine in replacing the affected bone joints, however, artificial substitutes are unable to fully ensure the functioning of the bone joint, therefore, it is much preferable to restore one's cartilage tissue.

joint diseases that damage cartilage tissue, when the weather changes, they appear aching pain, and with sudden movements - acute. Such symptoms should not be ignored, because if the disease begins to progress rapidly, then the only way out in this situation will be the removal of the diseased bone junction.

Preparations for the restoration of cartilage tissue

To repair a damaged joint, first of all, restore its cartilage tissue and perichondrium, using various preparations for this. These can be non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics in the form of injections and tablets, as well as chondoprotectors.

When restoring the cartilage tissue of the joint, first of all, it is necessary to influence the work of cartilage cells called chondrocytes, protect them from inflammation and reduce excessive activity of destructive substances. After that, the recovery process is stimulated in the intercellular substance of the cartilage. To this end, the doctor prescribes medications that can perform these tasks, and they are called chondroprotectors.

Exists several types of chondoprotectors, which differ in the active substance, efficiency, mechanism of influence and the number of components in the composition. They should be taken in long courses, since only in this case the maximum result will be achieved when the joint is restored.

Let us consider in more detail the drugs that can restore damaged tissue cartilage joint.

Chondroitin belongs to the most important class of glycosamines. He takes part in the formation of cartilage proteins, and also contributes to the restoration of its structure and properties. Thanks to this drug, the production of hyaluronic acid and collagen is enhanced. Since chondroitin stimulates chondrocyte cells, this contributes to better cartilage regeneration. Joint mobility as a result of taking such a drug is restored much faster, while there is a decrease in stiffness and pain.

Chondroitin-based drugs include:

They produce such drugs in the form of capsules, tablets and solutions, designed for long-term use.

Glucosamine-based preparations

Restore cartilage tissue of the joints medicines help based on glucosamine, which is a substance widely distributed in nature. Thanks to these drugs, cartilage is protected from various damages, and metabolism is normalized in it. These include:

The drugs are available in the form of tablets, powders, injections and creams.

There are also such drugs that are made from the bones and cartilage of animals e.g. calves or marine life. This drug includes "Rumalon" - an extract of cartilage and bone marrow of calves. It contains various components of cartilage, which contributes to its restoration. In addition, "Rumalon" as a natural defense slows down the aging of cartilage.

The medicine is produced only in the form of a solution, which is administered intramuscularly. Like any drug of animal origin, it may cause allergic reaction . Since Rumalon contains a foreign protein, such a drug can start defensive forces against your own body. That is why it is contraindicated in autoimmune diseases, For example, rheumatoid arthritis as well as during pregnancy and lactation.

Mucopolysaccharides

Preparations based on mucopolysaccharides can also restore the cartilaginous tissue of the joint. Thanks to them slowing down cartilage aging and the production of intra-articular fluid increases, and mobility returns to the joints. But these drugs are a large number of contraindications, which include diabetes mellitus, gastric ulcer and duodenum, renal and hepatic failure. However, for the restoration of cartilage, mucopolysaccharides are the best remedy.

This group includes "Arteparon", which is administered intramuscularly, and it is characterized by the duration of administration.

Combined medicines

Because cartilage damage accompanied by pain, then to get rid of it apply combined preparations. These include chondroprotectors, consisting of cartilage components and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. To this group belong:

• "Advance";
• "Teraflex";
• "Artodar".

But they can't be accepted. long time, as the risk of peptic ulcer and bleeding is high.

Hyaluronic acid is the most an important part of the intraarticular fluid and acts as a lubricant. If its production is disturbed, then there is a restriction of movement in the joints and microtraumas appear. As a result, the edges of the bones begin to grow and spikes form, while walking there is pain and crunching.

Preparations based on hyaluronic acid are injected into the joint, due to which they instantly enter the affected area and have therapeutic effect. The medicine is contraindicated in skin diseases and a pronounced inflammatory process.

Homeopathic and antihomotoxic drugs

Restore cartilage tissue capable of such drugs. Main advantage homeopathic remedies is complete absence side effects and contraindications for their use. They can be used for a long time, and the result is always positive.

Such preparations as "Traumeel S" and "Target T" have proven themselves well. Release them in the form of tablets, gel and solutions and thanks to them, pain and inflammation are reduced, which leads to the restoration of the joints. They can be used both during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Gymnastics

Exercise improves blood flow and synovial fluid that protects the surface of a bone joint from injury and contributes to it full-fledged work. Therapeutic exercises should be carried out slowly, without bouncing, jerking. It is forbidden to overload the joints and it is necessary to refuse such techniques as elements on bent knees or squats.

The task of therapeutic physical exercises is to prevent further destruction of cartilage, increase blood supply to the joint, prevent the progression of the disease, and relax muscle spasms.

Physiotherapy, compresses

In the absence of contraindications to such procedures, it is advisable to use them. Thanks to them the body regenerates tissues faster and speeds up recovery. The doctor may recommend electrophoresis, laser therapy, phonophoresis with hydrocortisone, magnetic laser therapy, UHF, and diadynamic currents. Massage, manual therapy courses, acupuncture will be very effective in this case.

Definite treatment can also have an effect, like medical bile, "Dimexide" or "Bishofite". Medical bile has a warming, analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect. "Bishofit" works in a similar way. But "Dimexide" is quite actively used for many diseases, as it is able to penetrate the skin and have a pronounced absorbable effect, relieve inflammation and improve metabolism at the site of application of such a compress.

Food

Many people taking chondroprotectors in tablets is contraindicated. What to do? In this case, they can be used natural form. Jellied dishes are rich in collagen, for example, jelly, and sweet jellies, but only natural ones. In addition, it is desirable to include in your diet foods rich in sulfur, protein, fatty acids, selenium. They are the "bricks" that are needed to build healthy cartilage.

Thus, the diet should consist of the following products:

• lean meats (chicken, beef);
• polyunsaturated fatty acid(sardine, linseed and olive oil, mackerel, salmon);
• dairy products;
• sources of selenium (seaweed, garlic, whole grain bread);
• sources of sulfur (cod, cabbage, onion, chum salmon, sea bass, plums, gooseberries, eggs).

Thus, joint cartilage restoration cannot happen on its own. For this, it is necessary to take chondoprotectors, conduct a course of physiotherapy and correct nutrition. Only in this case, you can be sure that the joint will recover and there will be no such problems in the future.

artrit.guru

The main causes of cartilage destruction

Cartilaginous tissue, despite its unique structure, due to which the structure, which is fragile at first glance, can withstand huge loads, is prone to destruction.

• genetic predisposition. In this case, a person from birth will have a tendency to destruction of the joints, which will occur sooner or later if measures are not taken to prevent it.
• Congenital or acquired anomalies in the development of the joints and the musculoskeletal system as a whole. The main reasons in this case are dysplasia, flat feet, etc.
• Injuries and surgeries.
• Increased physical activity. Strong physical exercise on the joint due to professional activity, lead to its rapid wear.
• shortages minerals in organism.
• Presence of autoimmune diseases. Often, the knee cartilage is damaged against the background of hemochromatosis, arthritis, psoriasis, gout, etc.
• Overweight. Obesity is the cause of many diseases in the human body, including the musculoskeletal system. When a person daily wears extra pounds, a large mass, the joints do not withstand and begin to collapse.
• Another reason is inflammation of the cartilage tissue of the joints as a result of arthritis, synovitis, etc.
• Diseases of the endocrine system.
• Hormonal imbalance.

We should not exclude such a provoking factor as impaired metabolism, which occurs against the background of prolonged smoking, alcohol addiction, Not proper nutrition, sedentary image life, etc.

The development of articular cartilage disease of the knee

Inflammation of the cartilage tissue of the joints, its destruction, is associated with various adverse factors, as a result of which the cartilage becomes loose in structure, similar to a porous sponge. Its structure becomes rough, begins to dry out and cracks appear on it.

Because of these changes, the joint cannot function normally, because instead of gently sliding, the joints begin to rub against each other. Over time, this process progresses - flattening of the bones occurs, due to which the articular area increases. The patient develops osteophytes - bone growths.

Given the fact that the joint fluid is the only source of cartilage nutrition, when it decreases, the joint itself experiences starvation. He does not receive useful nutrients, which negatively affects both his work and the well-being of the patient.

Initially, a person will be disturbed by pain and discomfort during physical exertion, later they will appear at rest. It will be difficult for the patient to get up and down the stairs, steps. Pain in the limbs will cause the person to limp, later to use walking support in the form of a cane or crutches.

How to restore damaged cartilage tissue of the joint

Restoration of the cartilage tissue of the knee joint is a lengthy process, and the sooner measures are taken, the more likely it is to restore the joint without surgical intervention. To know how to properly restore the knee cartilage, it is necessary to identify and eliminate the cause of its destruction.

To do this, you need to consult a doctor, undergo a diagnosis, and only after that apply the drugs and procedures recommended by the doctor.

Restoration of the cartilage tissue of the knee joint is possible only with the help of support high level chondrocytes (cartilage tissue cells). The nutrition of these cells is carried out at the expense of synovial fluid, since vessels do not pass through the joint itself, which could bring nutrients to it.

Thanks to the presence in physiotherapy exercises passive exercises, such classes are available for people of different ages, builds and physical data.

Be sure to normalize your daily menu in such a way that it contains the necessary amount of useful substances and excludes all unhealthy ones. Nutrition in no case should be vegetarian - the absence of the main sources of calcium (dairy products, meat, rich broths) will lead to joint fragility earlier than their physiological aging.

Restoration of the cartilage of the joints should begin on early stage with increased physical activity. To do this, you need to contact a specialized doctor and ask him to help you choose the right physical activity. You need to train daily, paying attention to problem areas of the body. Yoga classes help a lot, which will help stop the progression of the disease, improve the function of the joints and the well-being of the person as a whole.

Preparations for the restoration of cartilage tissue of the knee joint are prescribed by a doctor, depending on the cause of the disease. Most often, to restore cartilage tissue, chondroprotectors are prescribed, containing the main substances - hyaluron and chondroitin, which serve as some kind of prosthesis that replaces the missing fluid. These drugs are injected into the joint or applied topically, using ointments or gels for this.

Medicines help relieve pain and stop the progression of the disease, but they will need to be taken for a long time, almost a lifetime. Such a long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs often negatively affects the health of internal organs (gastritis, peptic ulcer, etc. may develop).

To prevent negative impact drugs on the body, additionally take protective drugs for the stomach, liver, intestines.

Therapy of knee joints with folk remedies

Restoration of the cartilage of the knee joint folk remedies maybe in different periods damage. For this, medicinal herbs are used, preparing infusions, decoctions, rubbing and ointments from them.

It helps well to warm up a painful place, grated radish and horseradish, which must be mixed and applied to the knee (can be used only in the absence severe inflammation). Warming compresses can be prepared from salt fried in a dry frying pan, boiled bran, dry mustard.

Remove from the body extra salt and water will help plants with a diuretic property. Decoctions or infusions are prepared from them (according to the instructions), after which they are taken orally in a certain proportion. For such purposes, you can buy nettles, kidney fees, horsetail, sunflower root.

You can insist on alcohol chestnut, calendula, birch leaves, dead bees. Such tinctures are prepared in advance, after which they are used to rub the knee. An effective and fairly safe remedy.

dlyasustavov.ru

Why do joints break down with age?

The joint is complex structure, in which there are bones and cartilage covering them. Thanks to cartilage, there is an unhindered sliding of the articular surfaces relative to each other. Bones provide cartilaginous part nutrients. As soon as problems arise in one component of the joint, the entire system begins to suffer.

There are 3 main factors that destroy joints:

1. Disturbed metabolism within the cartilage. The main substance of cartilage is collagen and proteins. Proteins consist of chondroitin and glycosamines. Violation of their metabolism is the leading destructive factor in the opinion of most scientists and doctors.
2. Inflammatory process that triggers cartilage damage. Damaged cartilage begins to produce other substances that can independently cause inflammation in other parts of the joint and stimulate bone growth with the formation of spikes.
   

   The result of recurring inflammation is osteoarthritis.

3. Loads. Moreover, their number, degree, and time of action are also important. Loads and frequent injuries start the process of destruction of the joint, destroy its cartilage, cause deformation of the bones.

Which joints are affected the most?

First of all, the most intensively working joints fall ill - knee, hip, intervertebral, joints of the hands.

For example, the cartilaginous tissue of the knee joint experiences daily stress and weight, and active movements. She's damaged, destroyed, and restored normal work knee joint is not so easy. The same processes occur in other joints.

How to find out about joint damage?

It is impossible not to notice diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Pain in the lower back and neck, knees, hands, crunching during movement, inability to straighten up or climb stairs - all these are clear signs of osteoarthritis.

Later, the pain begins to disturb even when resting, in the morning there is stiffness of the body, in severe cases, a cane or walker may be needed.

Can joints be restored?

Restoration of damaged joints primarily involves the restoration of their cartilaginous tissue and perichondrium. And if you can restore the structure of the bone by taking calcium and vitamin D3, then things are more complicated with cartilage.

First of all, it is necessary to influence the work of cartilage cells - chondrocytes, protect them from inflammation, and reduce the activity of destructive substances. Then it is necessary to stimulate the recovery process in the intercellular substance of the cartilage.

Drugs that perform all these tasks are called chondroprotectors - "protecting cartilage."

What are chondroprotectors?

There are several groups of chondroprotectors. They differ in the active substance, the mechanism of influence, the effect, the number of components in the composition. Chondroprotectors are especially effective in the treatment of early stages of osteoarthritis.

In severe cases and with intense pain, combined preparations are used - chondroprotectors and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Chondroprotectors should be taken in long courses to achieve maximum effect and rehabilitation of the joint.

General indications for the appointment of chondroprotectors:

1. degenerative diseases of the joints - arthrosis of any area;
2. osteocondritis of the spine;
3. inflammatory processes in the joints - arthritis;
4. destruction of articular cartilage.

Medicines based on chondroitin sulfate

Chondroitin belongs to the most important class of glycosamines. It is involved in the formation of cartilage proteins, the restoration of its structure and properties. The drug enhances the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid.

By stimulating chondrocyte cells, chondroitin provides a better degree of cartilage and perichondrium regeneration in comparison with other drugs. The mobility of the joint when it is taken is restored faster. In addition, pain and stiffness decrease, and other manifestations of osteoarthritis disappear.

Chondroitin-based drugs include mucosat, structum, artradol, chondrogard, artrin, chondroitin-akos, chondrolone. These drugs are produced in the form of tablets, capsules and solutions, designed for long-term use.

Preparations containing glucosamine

Glucosamine is a substance found in nature. It is the main component of chitin, which is most often extracted from the shell of crustaceans. Glucosamine-based preparations protect cartilage from damage and restore it normal exchange substances.

These include don, elbon, chondroxide maximum, sustilac, glucosamine sulfate.

Glucosamine preparations are available in the form of powders, tablets, injections and even creams (chondroxide maximum).

There are also medicines that are made from the cartilage and bones of animals - for example, marine life or calves.

These drugs include rumalon - an extract of bone marrow and cartilage tissue of calves. It contains various components of cartilage and thus stimulates its recovery. In addition, rumalon as a natural defense slows down the aging of cartilage.

The medicine is produced only in the form of a solution, it is administered intramuscularly. Like most animal products, it increases the risk of developing allergies. Due to the content of a foreign protein, it can trigger immunity against its own body, therefore it is prohibited in autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis). Pregnancy or its planning, breast-feeding are also contraindications for taking the drug.

The analogue of rumalon is biartrin. A similar drug, which is obtained from marine animals, is called alflutop.

Mucopolysaccharides

They slow down the aging of cartilage and increase the production of intra-articular fluid, restore joint mobility.

These drugs have many contraindications - peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, diabetes mellitus, kidney and liver disease, accompanied by insufficiency. But in some situations, it is mucopolysaccharides that are the best drug of choice.

Arteparon belongs to this group. This drug is administered intramuscularly, prescribed for a long course.

Multicomponent drugs

To influence several symptoms of splicing, preparations containing both chondroitin sulfate and glycosamine are used. These include teraflex, artron complex, chondroflex, chondrogluxide, artra.

Multicomponent preparations have high efficiency, are also used for a long time. They are produced mainly in the form of tablets and capsules, some are used topically - as ointments and creams (Teraflex M). Well tolerated, of the side effects, only allergies and sometimes discomfort in the stomach can be noted.

Combined drugs

Since pain is an inevitable companion of osteoarthritis, getting rid of it is the most important task complex treatment. For these purposes, chondroprotectors have been developed, which include not only cartilage components, but also non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

These drugs include teraflex advance, artrodar.

Combined drugs could be considered the gold standard for the treatment of osteoarthritis, if not for their side effects, in particular, on the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Due to the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs included in the composition, patients may experience:

• heartburn and stomach pain;
• exacerbation or appearance of peptic ulcer;
• bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract.

In old age, these manifestations most often proceed erased, imperceptibly and can lead to serious complications. It is necessary to prescribe combination drugs to patients after 60 years of age with caution and be sure to warn what uncontrolled use may threaten.

Long-term use of combination drugs also increases the risk of bleeding and peptic ulcer disease.

The effectiveness and safety of the use of chondroprotectors has been studied for more than 25 years all over the world. The best results were shown by drugs based on glycosamine, chondroitin sulfate and their combinations.

Hyaluronic acid preparations

Hyaluronic acid is the most important part of the intra-articular fluid, it acts as a lubricant. In case of violation of the production of hyaluronic acid, movements in the joints are difficult, microtraumas occur. This leads to the growth of bone edges and the formation of spikes, pain when walking, crunching when moving.

Medicines based on hyaluronic acid are injected into the joint. In this case, they instantly reach the affected area and provide healing effect. Courses of therapy are repeated after six months or a year.

Hyaluronic acid preparations are not used for severe inflammation, skin diseases. Contraindications include children's age.

Considering intra-articular administration, treatment hyaluronic acid carried out only by orthopedic traumatologists.

Homeopathic and antihomotoxic remedies

Homeopathy and antihomotoxic therapy are involved in the treatment of osteoarthritis along with classical medicine. The main advantage of homeopathic medicines is the absence of side effects and contraindications for treatment. They can be used for a long time and show good long-term results.

Of the well-established drugs, Cel T and Traumeel C are known. They have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, by reducing inflammation they restore the functioning of the joints. They are used in the form of solutions, tablets and gel.

Antihomotoxic and homeopathic treatment can be performed during pregnancy and in childhood. Breast-feeding also not a hindrance.

Collagen-based preparations

Collagen-based preparations are, for the most part, biologically active additives. One of the well known is Collagen Ultra. Serious side effects from taking this supplement were not noted, but its benefits remain in question.

Folk remedies

Is there an alternative for those who are not used to being treated traditional means? Yes, in the early stages, treatment with folk methods is possible.

For the most part, these are plant-based compresses designed to relieve swelling and inflammation in a diseased joint. Cabbage leaves with honey, burdock, elecampane root, dandelion vodka tincture are successfully used.

But we must remember that the treatment of folk remedies eliminates the symptoms, but does not affect the cause. They cannot stop the destruction of cartilage.

Food

If there are chondroprotectors in tablets, why can't they be used in their natural form? After all, aspic dishes (jelly, fish aspic) and sweet jellies are rich in collagen - natural, not synthetic.

But do not lean on jellies with osteoarthritis. The harm to the heart will be much greater than the intended benefit.

You need to eat foods rich in protein, sulfur, selenium, fatty acids. These are the “bricks” from which healthy cartilage will be built.

The diet must include:

• dairy products;
• lean meats (beef, chicken);
• sources of sulfur (sea bass and chum salmon, cod, gooseberries and plums, cabbage and onions, eggs);
• sources of selenium (garlic, seaweed, whole grain bread);
• polyunsaturated fatty acids (mackerel, sardine, salmon, olive and linseed oils).

By using healthy foods, you can slow down the aging and destruction of cartilage, improve the functioning of the joints.

Which method should be preferred?

With osteoarthritis, you should not get carried away with any one type of treatment. Therapy for degenerative joint diseases should be comprehensive - from proper nutrition to a well-chosen scheme of chondroprotectors.

Only a doctor should prescribe treatment. Self-medication in case of osteoarthritis is unacceptable.

Osteochondrosis is degenerative disease intervertebral discs. It manifests itself as a pain syndrome of varying intensity, which depends on its stage and the degree of destruction of the fibrous ring. At the initial stage, to restore the cartilaginous tissue of the spine, it is enough to remove the pathogenetic factors of influence and the health of the musculoskeletal system will quickly recover. naturally. In the second stage of osteochondrosis, when sustainable forms disc protrusion, recovery is possible only with integrated approach to therapy.

Here it is required to use all the possibilities of manual therapy and modern pharmacological preparations. In addition, the patient will be required to make efforts in terms of abandoning the lifestyle that, in fact, led to such a disease.

Essentially, disc protrusion is border state between osteochondrosis and disc herniation. Therefore, when appearing on radiographic images typical signs similar condition it is important to start treatment immediately. In this case, the patient is insured against a severe neurological disease associated with rupture of the fibrous ring, the exit of the nucleus pulposus and infringement radicular nerves.

Preparations (drugs) in injections for the restoration of cartilage tissue of the spine

Modern pharmacological preparations for the restoration of cartilage tissue of the spine are made on the basis of chondroitin and glucosamine. These are structural basic substances, which are involved in the nutrition, formation and restoration of any cartilage. This is, so to speak, its basis. With arthrosis and chondropathy of large joints of the upper and lower extremities, these drugs are injected directly into the joint cavity and give excellent results.

It is very difficult to use such drugs to restore the cartilage tissue of the spine. The effectiveness of such therapy is usually zero. And there are objective reasons for this:

• transportation of any medicinal substance in the focus of pathological changes does not occur completely, but within 10 - 15 percent (even with intravenous administration, let alone injection into the gluteal muscle);
• if we talk about the cartilaginous tissue of the spine, then here with osteochondrosis, and even more so protrusion, the medicine does not come in principle, since it can only be delivered using diffuse metabolism, and muscle tissues blocked by the inflammatory process;
• chondroprotectors for osteochondrosis to a certain extent act positively on areas of damaged large joints, but do not treat the spine;
• to ensure the transportation of these pharmacological agents to the intervertebral cartilaginous discs, it is necessary to connect manual therapy to the treatment;
• with the help of osteopathy and massage, reflexology and therapeutic exercises, doctors will be able to ensure a high degree of bioavailability of chondroitin and glucosamine from intramuscular injection (bioavailability with manual therapy is 20 - 25%).

The following injections are most often prescribed to restore the cartilaginous tissue of the spine:

1. "Alflutop" 2 ml intramuscularly 1 time per day for 20 days;
2. "Chondroitin sulfate" and "Glucosamine hydrochloride" 2 ml 1 time per day for 5 days;
3. "Meloxicam" 6 mg (1 ml) intramuscularly every other day for a course of 20 injections;
4. "Artrocelsus", "Struktum" and others.

When conducting course treatment it is also advisable to use intramuscular injections of "Nicotinic acid" or "Nikospan" in order to improve capillary circulation in the area of ​​the affected intervertebral discs.

Spinal cartilage restoration with manual therapy

It is most effective to restore the cartilage of the spine using manual therapy techniques. They contribute natural process tissue regeneration. Allow to improve general state patient's health.

Our manual therapy clinic uses the following types effects for the restoration of cartilage of intervertebral discs:

• traction traction spinal column in order to eliminate compression of the radicular nerves and increase the intervertebral spaces to provide space for the full expansion of the discs;
• massage to relieve excess tension from the muscular frame of the back and increase local blood circulation in the area of ​​pathological changes;
• osteopathy to improve the condition of muscles, facet joints and restore the position of the vertebral bodies;
• reflexology and, as necessary, pharmacopuncture (introduction of drugs into biologically active points in minimal dosages) to start the process of tissue regeneration due to the hidden reserves of the body;
• kinesitherapy and therapeutic exercises to strengthen the muscular frame of the back, correct posture defects, etc.

In addition to manual therapy methods, the patient will be offered a full accompanying consultation on lifestyle changes in such a way as to start the reverse process in the area of ​​pathological changes.

Nutrition for the restoration of cartilage tissue of the spine

Proper nutrition for the restoration of the cartilage tissue of the spine allows you to provide several aspects at once. Firstly, the patient will be able to reduce body weight and tighten muscles with the help of diet and dietary modifications. Second, right organized meals will energize and allow you to work effectively therapeutic gymnastics. Thirdly, with the help of certain foods, you can speed up the process of cartilage tissue repair. Such products include small breeds of marine fish, gelatin, kelp, cartilage tissues of large cattle(used for making jelly).

In addition to nutrition, drinking balance should be restored. You need to accustom yourself to drink at least 2 liters of water per day. This will enhance the hydrophobicity of the cartilage tissue and its cushioning properties.

Avoid sugary soda, coffee, black tea, and chocolate whenever possible. All these drinks include extractive substances that can destroy cartilage tissue in the human body.

During his long life, a person is faced with a number of tasks, in the course of which it is possible to receive various kinds injuries. Many injuries can damage cartilage. Also, cartilage tissue can be damaged and naturally- during the aging of the body.

What is the danger of the destruction of cartilage tissue of the joints

In the human body, cartilage performs a number of important functions:

• Reduces friction between joints.
• Even distribution of weight on the joints during physical exertion.
• Helps keep bones in place.

In the course of destruction, pain syndromes may gradually disappear, but immobilization comes in their place. During Taken measures to restore the cartilaginous tissue of the joints, will help stop the process of destruction that has already begun.

To date, there are quite a few techniques for tissue restoration, the most optimal one should be selected by a specialist. For each patient, treatment is selected individually.

There are a number of reasons that lead to cartilage deformation. The most common are considered to be:

1. Heavy physical activity, as well as constant stress associated with professional activities.
2. Lack of vitamins and minerals in daily diet.
3. Bad habits.
4. Excess weight.
5. Sedentary lifestyle.
6. Received injuries due to which the cartilage was damaged.
7. hereditary factor.

Lack of proper treatment and care can subsequently lead to a number of diseases, as a result of which a person will not be able to walk.

Destruction of cartilage, accompanied by discomfort which the patient simply cannot ignore. To the most severe symptoms relate:

• Impairment of limb mobility.
• Constant troubling pain.
• At a later stage, the formation of edema and hematomas.

Why is it so important to restore cartilage in the joints?

Absolutely all tissues in the human body are capable of self-healing. But cartilage is able to recover partially. The main reason is considered to be the absence of capillaries, thanks to which the tissues receive their nutrition.

Cartilage tissue receives its nutrition from the synovial fluid, and it, in turn, is rich in hyaluronic acid.

By itself, the process of restoring the cartilage tissue of the joints is quite long. In the absence of proper treatment, the patient may begin small deformities in the limbs, and then complete immobilization. Also, with insufficient treatment, subsequently the patient will not be able to lift weights and move normally, and the performance of daily work will be very difficult and constantly accompanied by pain.

The benefits of drugs and their types

In order to restore and strengthen cartilage tissue, the patient may be prescribed special preparations. During treatment, the patient may be prescribed nonsteroidal drugs, chondoprotectors, painkillers in the form of injections and tablets.

For full recovery cartilage tissue of the joints, first of all, you should pay attention to the work of cartilage cells. scientific name cartilage cells - chondrocytes. It is chondrocytes that first of all need to be protected from inflammatory processes.

Only after the complete restoration of cartilage cells, the patient is prescribed chondoprotectors.

Currently, there are several types of chondoprotectors, which differ in their composition, and also have different influence on cartilage. Absolutely all chondoprotectors must be taken for a long time, since cartilage tissue has a long recovery period.

Today, those that are based on chondroitin sulfate are considered quite popular drugs. These drugs are taken Active participation in the formation of cartilage tissue, and also contribute to the restoration of the structure and properties. It has been noticed that during the use of a sulfate-based drug, the period of restoration of cartilage tissue passes much faster and less painfully.

To date, the most popular drugs based on chondroitin are:

• Structum.
• Mukosat.
• Chondrolon.
• Chondroitin-akos.

The above drugs are available for long-term use.

Fully restore the cartilage tissue of the joints help medications containing glucosamine. The most popular include:

• Elbon.
• Chondroxide max.
• Don.
• Glucosamine sulfate.

During the use of these drugs, the cartilage is not only able to recover as quickly as possible, but also the metabolism in the cartilage normalizes. The drugs are available in the form of tablets and powders for injection.

Quite common are drugs that contain animal bones and cartilage. In addition to restoring cartilage, drugs slow down its aging and make it more wear-resistant. Such drugs are produced only in the form of solutions that are injected into the body intramuscularly.

In addition to a number of positive effects, there are also contraindications for use. Since the preparation contains foreign protein, human body can simply reject it, often causing quite severe allergic reactions.

Preparations based on mucopolysaccharides are the fastest drugs for the restoration of cartilage tissue of the joints, as well as the production of synovial fluid, but they have big row contraindications. People with diabetes, stomach ulcers, renal and hepatic insufficiency, the use is contraindicated.

Often, the destruction of the cartilage tissue of the joints is accompanied by enough severe pain. To alleviate the pain syndrome, as well as restore cartilage, the patient may be prescribed combination drugs, which include anti-inflammatory drugs. The most common are:

• Teraflex.
• Artrodar.

These drugs should not be taken for a long time, due to the risk of bleeding and cholelithiasis.

Hyaluronic acid is an integral part of the intra-articular fluid. Preparations based on it are injected directly into the lesion site. They act instantly, but do not have a long-term effect.

The most effective drugs

Today, doctors quite often prescribe chondoprotectors to their patients. Despite the duration of use, such drugs practically do not cause side effects, and they can also be used at any age. The exception is pregnancy and lactation.

• Teraflex- used for osteochondrosis of the spine, as well as joint injuries.
• Don- taken orally or injected intramuscularly. Methods of application and dosage are prescribed by the doctor individually.
• Artra- used for arthrosis and osteochondrosis.
• Structum- the dosage and duration of administration is prescribed by the doctor individually.
• formula-s- Recommended for use as prophylactic.
• Alflutop- administered intramuscularly. After the introduction, some pain is possible. If the joint is damaged extremely badly, it is possible to inject the drug into the joint.
• toad stone- herbal medicine. Most often prescribed as a prophylactic. Considered a dietary supplement.
• Hydrocortzone- is an intra-articular drug. It is prescribed for severe injuries. The dosage is assigned individually to each patient.
• Diprospan- is injected into the joint, is a strong pain reliever.
• Chondroitin sulfate- used in the prevention of arthrosis. Restores important components of cartilage tissue
• Target T- a homeopathic preparation, prescribed in a complex. Well removes puffiness and inflammation of cartilage. Cartilage tissue does not restore.
• Artadol- designed for long-term use. Has no side effects.

Timely measures taken, as well as periodic prevention, will help get rid of negative consequences.

Cartilage in our body is designed to perform several functions: cushioning under heavy loads and ensuring normal mobility in the joints. They are located on internal surfaces bones and prevent their wear and tear at the points of contact, it is also their task to nourish the joint by absorbing from synovium and periarticular tissues of essential substances. Therefore, to ensure the normal functioning of the knee, it is necessary to restore the cartilaginous tissue of the knee joint if it is damaged.

Cartilage consists of cellular structures - chondrocytes and an extracellular substance called the matrix, its amount is predominant. The regenerative abilities of any tissue in the body are determined by the possibility of cell reproduction. And in cartilage, due to the predominance of the matrix, this happens with great difficulty. Damage to the knee joint, which results in a violation of the structure of the cartilage tissue, can be for the following reasons:

• age wear;
• injuries during sports or heavy physical labor;
• degenerative-dystrophic processes.

Medicinal ways to restore cartilage

In the treatment of diseases or injuries that lead to violations of the structure of the cartilage tissue of the knee joint, the most effective means are chondroprotectors. These include chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine. Each of these substances performs its task, together their use allows you to normalize the properties and structure of the lubricating fluid, as well as start the production of the main elements of cartilage with further prevention of their destruction. In addition, chonroitin sulfate has the ability to neutralize enzymes that act in a destructive way on cartilage tissue.

Taking these drugs makes sense only in the initial stages of the process. The presence of pronounced degenerative changes with the complete destruction of cartilage or deformation of the bones makes the use of chondroprotectors useless for recovery to occur, since they are not able to return the bones to their previous shape or grow new cartilage.

It should also be understood that it is impossible to restore the cartilage of the knee joint with the help of these drugs very quickly. For a successful process, they need a long and regular use. That's why effective treatment with the help of this kind of medicines includes:

1. Complex use. The joint intake of chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine enhance each other's action and complement it.
2. It is necessary to strictly adhere to the duration of the course (at least 3-5 months) and timely admission. There is no point in using such substances on an occasional basis.
3. An important point is also the adequacy of dosing. The required dose of glucosamine should be at least 1000-1500 mg, and chondroitin sulfate - 1000 mg.
4. Degree of efficiency similar drugs in order for the restoration of cartilage tissue to occur, it is also determined by the manufacturer. You should not buy medicines from little-known companies at an attractive price for the consumer, it is possible at the same time to acquire a completely ineffective or even dangerous substance for health, especially for bioadditives.
5. A positive point is also the fact that chondroprotectors have practically no side effects and almost no contraindications.

High efficiency in the restoration of the cartilage of the knee joint in the course of numerous experiments was proved by the use of STH - growth hormone. Many times stronger results can be obtained with a combination of the introduction of STH and thyrocalcitonin into the body. This hubbub is produced thyroid gland and is responsible for reparative processes not only in cartilage, but also in bones. These two substances are able to enhance the processes of division of chondrocytes and increase the volume of the matrix.

The disadvantage of such treatment may be the anabolic effect of STH, which can cause a disproportion in the structure of the skeleton.

Anabolic steroids are in second place in terms of the possibility of cartilage restoration. It is they who are able to reduce the processes of destruction and enhance regeneration. However, their undesirable effects on the body during systemic use, as well as their classification as doping substances in sports, make long-term studies of their effectiveness for the treatment of cartilage difficult.

Within pharmacological dosages, some types of vitamins can significantly affect the production of somatotropic hormone, enhance the processes of collagen synthesis, and improve the condition of the matrix. This a nicotinic acid, vitamin K, ascorbic acid in combination with amino acids alanine, proline and others.

A significant improvement is observed with the intra-articular injection of polyvinylpyrrolidone, which temporarily acts as a "prosthetic" substance, reducing the friction force and removing the main load from the knee joint.

Modern techniques

In many European countries, in particular in Germany, new and unique techniques have been developed to restore cartilage after damage. Let's consider some of them.

Sanation

With this option, it is possible to partially remove the edges and other areas of minor damage by endoscopic means, followed by surface polishing. In the same way, the meniscus is sutured and some sections of the synovial membrane are removed. This method helps to prevent further tissue destruction and speed up the healing process.

Use of stem cells

There are several ways in which new cartilage tissue is formed from stem cells. One of these techniques is the treatment of the surface of the joint by the surgeon with the help of a special tool with the formation of a microscopic network of cracks. At the same time, stem and blood cellular elements penetrate through these formed holes and form a completely new and compacted fibrocartilaginous tissue.

If there is a more serious damage to the knee joint, then it is necessary to first carry out sanitation, and only then proceed to the above method.

Sometimes good results are obtained by the method of transplantation into the damaged area of ​​bone marrow cells.

A relative disadvantage of this method is the imperfection of the resulting structure, since it contains few chondrocytes and does not have sufficient strength for another 3-4 years. At the slightest load, it can not withstand and collapses again. Nevertheless, the presence of even a fragile tissue is better than its complete absence.

Transplantation

There are several types of transplantation for this pathology. In one of the options, pieces of tissue are taken from intact places and transplanted to where the defect occurs. This is enough complex method especially when using an arthroscope.

The second method, which is already used in Germany, is the transplantation of cells into a sore spot, which are cultivated from several taken healthy elements V laboratory conditions. The use of this technique is especially effective for cartilage detachment.