Deforming arthrosis of the ankle: symptoms and treatment

Deforming arthrosis of the ankle( DAG) is a chronic form of the disease, the main cause of which is considered changes in articular cartilage.

It should be noted that this disease occurs quite often, especially among athletes and people experiencing serious physical stress. DAG is also often seen in people who are overweight.

Ankle joint is almost always in motion and regularly under the influence of loads. The process of destruction of articular cartilage is dangerous because in the early stages it does not have clinical symptoms. So a person does not even suspect that he develops a serious enough disease. As practice shows, in most cases the disease is diagnosed in the elderly.

Mechanism for the development of the disease

The deformation process of the ankle joint can progress under different factors. The cartilage joint itself does not have nerve endings and blood vessels, which is the main reason for the painless course of destruction.

In the process of destruction, the cartilage becomes loose enough and it separates small pieces that float in the joint gap and penetrate between the rubbing surfaces of the joint. As a result, small parts erase the synovial coating of the joint capsule and the cartilaginous tissue.

All this leads to painful inflammation of the joint membrane. This chain of processes leads to even more destruction of the cartilage.

The root of the problem

To prevent the development of such a disease as DAG, it is important to know the reasons for its occurrence. One of the most common factors that provoke deforming arthrosis of the ankle is the increased load on the foot and legs as a whole.

As mentioned earlier, it is sportsmen who are often exposed to DAG.Also, the disease can occur in women who often wear heels and do not give limbs rest. The situation is aggravated by regular hypothermia of the legs.

Overweight is another significant cause of deformation. Therefore, it is worthwhile to closely monitor your lifestyle and nutrition. It is worth noting that the pathological changes may come from the cartilage itself, and not because of the heavy load. But the reason for this change doctors often called the violation of protein metabolism in the tissue.

Deforming arthrosis of the ankle joint can begin its development after intraarticular fracture, partial rupture of capsules or hemorrhage to the joint.

Other comorbid diseases, for example, diabetes mellitus or arthrosis of another part of the body, can provoke the disease. In some cases, the deforming arthrosis of the ankle can be inherited.

If parents have a predilection for this disease, it is extremely important to know about the rules of prevention, we will talk about them a little later.

Stages of development of the disease

Deforming arthrosis of the ankle has three degrees of development, namely:

1. disease of the first stage of the does not significantly affect the ability to work and the condition of a person. Pain syndromes can be observed after rest or in the mornings. Stiffness in the joints passes quickly enough after the movement begins. With sudden movements, the joint can produce a characteristic crunch. The disease manifests itself only with prolonged and regular physical activity. With small loads, the pain is completely absent. As practice shows, patients at this stage of the disease rarely seek help.
2. The disease in the second degree of is characterized by more severe pain syndromes. In some cases, it can grow into a sharp form. The crunch appears even with minimal load and movements. There are some limitations in the mobility of the joint, but the work capacity is still preserved. Deforming arthrosis of the ankle joint of the 2nd degree is characterized by a constant general fatigue and a feeling of discomfort. At the second stage, already significant destruction takes place, therefore, going to the doctor is an indispensable measure. Osteoarthritis does not allow performing some kinds of physical work and brings a lot of discomfort.
3. disease of the third degree is considered to be the heaviest and neglected. At this stage, joint deformation, inflammatory processes, movement limitation, loss of ability to work, severe pain and apparent sensitivity of the joint to changes in the weather are observed. If you do not go to the doctor in time, then it will be almost impossible to avoid terrible consequences.

Symptomatic symptoms of

Different degrees of arthrosis deformities of the ankle joint differ in its symptoms. But you can identify the main, suitable for all. Among them:

• clicks and crunch when moving in the joint;
• "starting" pain;
• movement restrictions;
• pain during and after physical exertion;
• puffiness and inflammation;
• aching pain at night;
• joint deformity.

"Start" pain is one of the most common and characteristic symptoms. It occurs even in the early stages. This pain occurs after a long rest or calm.

After lifting from a bed or chair, the pain lasts a short time. After several minutes of movement, it passes, especially at the first stage of arthrosis. If you notice a similar tendency, it is better to see a doctor immediately for professional help.

Diagnosis and therapy

Only the doctor can diagnose deforming arthrosis of the ankle. To do this, the most commonly prescribed is an MRI of the ankle. During the examination, the specialist determines the degree of development and the depth of the problem. After that, the methods of treatment are appointed.

It is worth noting that treatment is a whole complex of actions that have for a long time been combating the causes of the onset of the disease. The first thing doctors recommend is to completely eliminate heavy physical exertion and minimize movement.

A good action is provided by special physical therapy, massage and physiotherapy. In most cases, medication is prescribed. Medications help to remove pain syndromes and inflammation. In advanced stages, is administered intra-articularly with corticosteroids.

To date, laser therapy is often used to treat deforming arthrosis of the ankle joint. Laser treatment is one of the most effective, especially at the initial stages of the development of the disease.

In order for the body to recover completely, it is important to take care of proper nutrition and nutritional supplements. Useful products include hash, jelly and cold. Also, with arthrosis, it is recommended to eat foods rich in calcium, as well as vitamins of group B.

The consequences of deforming arthrosis of the ankle may be very unpleasant. This disease can cause partial or complete immobilization. If you do not go to the doctor on time, the risk of disability increases.

Warning and armed with

There are several recommendations that will help avoid the emergence and progression of DAG.The first thing to do is avoid injuries to the joints.

Shoes should be worn only on firm heels, and when practicing sports, use protective equipment. Also, do not use shoes with a too firm sole.

It is necessary to monitor your diet, take calcium and all vitamins. Introduce in the daily diet of dairy products, vegetables and fruits. You should give up very salty and spicy food.

If the work is associated with constant loads, then a lot of rest and try to regularly hold special gymnastics.

It is necessary to treat any disorders associated with vascular diseases and the endocrine system. Also, you need to regularly check with doctors to avoid unpleasant surprises.