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Treatment of toe joints

17 Jun 18

Symptoms and treatment of arthrosis of the big toe

Arthrosis of the big toe is a degenerative disease in which changes occur in the structure of the joint. Pathology leads to loss of elasticity of cartilage tissue, and soft tissue is affected by the inflammatory process.

Reasons for the development of arthrosis

Previously, there was a strong opinion that the main causes of arthrosis were age-related changes and salt deposits. The influence of these factors is still recognized today, but is considered secondary.

The main causes leading to arthrosis are:

  • wearing uncomfortable shoes (not the right size, high heels, narrow toes);
  • injury to the foot, big toe of the lower limb;
  • congenital tendency to arthrosis or non-standard foot anatomy;
  • flat feet;
  • concomitant joint pathologies, diabetes mellitus;
  • excessive stress on the legs due to a certain lifestyle (certain sports, heavy physical work, obesity).
  • Symptoms and stages of arthrosis

    The essence of the pathological process consists of the following changes:

  • destruction of cartilage tissue due to loss of its elasticity;
  • atrophic processes in muscles;
  • bone pathology (growth of bone tissue, formation of growths);
  • decreased clearance in the joint space, leading to loss of functionality of the big toe.
  • Typical manifestations of arthrosis of the toes:

  • pain in the big toe and entire foot;
  • rapid fatigue of the lower extremities;
  • the appearance of noticeable calluses, growths, bulging bones;
  • crunching sounds in the thumb joint when moving.
  • Arthrosis is classified into three stages. Each stage has its own characteristic symptoms:

  • The first stage is manifested by pain in the joints (the nature of the pain is aching) and swelling. At the beginning of the development of arthrosis, the effectiveness of treatment is high, and it is possible to completely restore health.
  • Second stage. At this stage, calluses appear, swelling becomes more pronounced, and the joint sharply increases in size. An inflammatory process of soft tissues develops, the skin on the damaged area becomes reddish. When moving, crunching sounds are heard from the joint area.
  • The third stage of arthrosis is associated with deformation processes. The big toe becomes bent (due to the growth of the metatarsal bone), and lameness appears. The joint space decreases, and bone growths—osteophytes—form. The pain becomes unbearable without the use of painkillers. At this stage of arthrosis you cannot do without surgery.
  • At the first suspicion of arthrosis, you should contact your general doctor at your place of residence or a specialized specialist (orthopedist, rheumatologist, arthrologist).

    The following methods are used to make a diagnosis:

  • Personal inspection.
  • X-ray examination. The technique allows you to most accurately determine the degree of deformation and the stage of arthrosis.
  • Blood chemistry. Thanks to this analysis, gout can be excluded or confirmed.
  • Densitometry. The study makes it possible to determine the degree of compaction of bone tissue.
  • Treatment of arthrosis of the big toe is carried out using the following techniques:

  • physiotherapy;
  • manual therapy;
  • hirudotherapy;
  • surgical operation;
  • orthopedic treatment;
  • massage treatments;
  • therapeutic nutrition;
  • traditional medicine.
  • Drug treatment

    In the initial stages, arthrosis of the big toe can be successfully treated with medications. Drugs used to treat arthrosis can be divided into several groups:

  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Designed to eliminate the inflammatory process and reduce pain. Drugs in this group include, for example: Ibuprofen, Ortofen, Movalis. The drugs are used both internally and in the form of ointments. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used for a short time, since their effect occurs after a few days.
  • Chondroprotectors. Designed to protect cartilage from destruction. Popular chondroprotectors for the treatment of arthrosis are Teraflex, Chondroitin-Akos, Elbona and a number of others.
  • Painkillers. Used to relieve pain. Well-known painkillers are “Ketorol”, “Alflutop”, “Analgin”, etc.
  • Hyaluronic acid. This product replaces the natural lubricant (synovial fluid) for joint surfaces.
  • Hormonal drugs (corticosteroids). Typically, such drugs are administered by injection. Examples of corticosteroids are Kenalog, Hydrocortisone.
  • One of the methods included in the comprehensive treatment program for arthrosis is manual therapy. During treatment, two tactics are used:

  • Mobilization. Consists of traction and stretching of the joint. The task of mobilization is to normalize the motor interaction between bones and cartilage tissue. The procedure allows you to reduce pain and get rid of discomfort in the damaged joint. During the rehabilitation period, mobilization is carried out monthly.
  • Manipulation. Allows you to restore the original (or anatomically correct) position of the joint. The procedure is carried out in one sharp movement. If the manipulation is performed correctly, the patient will feel an improvement in his condition immediately.
  • Physiotherapy methods are used to eliminate arthrosis of the big toe. The procedures help reduce inflammation, improve local blood circulation, and relieve pain.

    The following physiotherapeutic measures are used:

    1. UHF. Procedures of this type allow you to relieve swelling and get rid of pain. UHF is carried out for 12 days.
    2. Laser therapy. Used to improve tissue blood flow in the big toe and foot area. Reduces the sensitivity of nerve endings. The therapeutic course includes 15–20 procedures.
    3. Magnetotherapy. Helps relieve swelling, optimizes microcirculation, promotes metabolism in cartilage tissue, and reduces pain.
    4. Electrophoresis. It has a beneficial effect on metabolic processes and improves the regeneration of cartilage tissue. The best results are achieved by combining electrophoresis with a dimexide compress.
    5. Healing mud. Mud therapy helps get rid of the inflammatory process and swelling. With arthrosis of the interphalangeal joints, mud helps improve their elasticity and accelerate the recovery processes in bone tissue.
    6. Turpentine baths. The procedure promotes tissue blood flow and helps remove toxins from the body.
    7. Orthopedic devices are used for therapeutic purposes for arthrosis, including:

    8. Special corrective pads that help fix the finger in the physiologically correct position. Thanks to the pads, pain while walking is reduced.
    9. Shoe supports. Arch supports allow you to reduce the load on the pathologically changed joint. The devices reduce pain and help avoid the formation of growths.
    10. Plaster boot. Like previous devices, a plaster boot is designed to fix the area affected by arthrosis in the correct position.
    11. Surgery

      If conservative therapy does not bring the expected results or arthrosis is at too advanced a stage, surgery may be necessary.

      There are several radical ways to solve the problem of arthrosis:

    12. Arthrodesis. During the operation, the two bones of the thumb are connected. As a result of the intervention, finger mobility is lost.
    13. Resection. Surgical intervention consists of removing articular surfaces that are in contact with each other and thereby causing pain to the patient. One or more of these surfaces may be removed.
    14. Arthroscopy. The essence of the operation is to make small holes in the affected area to remove pathologically altered cartilage tissue.
    15. Osteotomy. Consists of surgical removal of the deformed bone structure. The surgeon cuts or chips away the growths on the bone.
    16. To alleviate the unpleasant consequences of arthrosis, traditional medicine can be used. In order not to harm your own health, you should consult your doctor before using any unconventional methods.

      The following traditional medicines are used to treat arthrosis:

    17. Burdock. Take a freshly picked burdock leaf, wash it and lightly treat it with cologne. Apply a little honey or garlic to the leaf. Apply burdock to the sore area. Fix the sheet on the leg using plastic film. Wear a thick sock over the film. The procedure is performed at night and helps reduce pain and inflammation.
    18. Iodine. Create an iodine network on the affected joint using a cotton swab. Iodine, penetrating into the joint, relieves swelling and inflammation.
    19. Bee venom. With the help of bee stings you can fight swelling, inflammation and pain. However, it should be noted that bee therapy can be carried out only after consultation with your doctor and provided that you are not allergic to insects.
    20. Bone tar. All animal bones have healing properties. Wash the bones thoroughly, crush them and place them in a container. Bury the container with bone material in the ground, lay firewood on top and light a fire. Simmer the substance until it turns into bone tar. Treat the affected joint with the resulting mixture.
    21. You can reduce the symptoms of arthrosis of the big toe at home (taking medications, massage treatments, applying compresses, rubbing). However, it is best to perform procedures under the direct supervision of specialists.

      In addition, some procedures (for example, physiotherapy) cannot be performed at home. The best option for quickly getting rid of the disease is considered to be sanatorium treatment.

      Advantages of this approach:

    22. comprehensive measures to combat arthrosis;
    23. supervision of specialists during treatment;
    24. organization of healthy nutrition;
    25. physiotherapeutic procedures.
    26. The cost of services for the treatment of arthrosis can vary greatly depending on the stage of arthrosis, the presence of concomitant diseases, the area and the level of the clinic.

      In Moscow, the following average prices for services have developed:

    27. tests - 800 - 2000 rubles;
    28. hospital stay - 5,000 - 18,000 rubles daily;
    29. UHF - from 1000 rubles for each procedure;
    30. massage - from 300 rubles per session;
    31. manual therapy - 1500 - 3000 rubles per visit.
    32. You can prevent the development of arthrosis by following certain rules:

    33. Wear only comfortable shoes - without heels and with toes of a comfortable width.
    34. Pay attention to the condition of your feet. If you detect any deformations (by eye or touch), consult a doctor immediately.
    35. Spend time on therapeutic exercises. It is recommended to pay attention to yoga and Pilates.
    36. Visit specialized sanatoriums where you can undergo physical therapy. Mud therapy, mineral waters and compresses are especially useful.
    37. Learn to do your own foot massage.

    Lack of treatment or untimely measures taken for arthrosis lead to loss of limb functionality and disability. The earlier treatment is started, the more likely it is to be effective.

    How to properly begin treatment for arthrosis of the big toe?

    Due to their location, the big toes are often injured by blows and bruises. This is one of the causes of arthrosis of the interphalangeal or metatarsophalangeal joint of 1 finger. Osteoarthritis of the big toe can also be a consequence of a non-standard foot structure, flat feet, or wearing uncomfortable shoes. This disease often affects people who spend a lot of time on their feet. In addition to mechanical factors, destruction of the joints of the big toe is provoked by hormonal disorders, systemic diseases, and circulatory disorders.

    Regardless of the causes of the disease, treatment for arthrosis of the big toe should be comprehensive. The earlier it is started, the higher the chances of stopping the process of joint deformation, which leads to lameness and excruciating pain.

    Basic principles and methods of treatment

    Manifestations of arthrosis of the thumb are often mistaken for symptoms of gout; the approach to treating these diseases varies. Therefore, if you experience pain, limited finger mobility, or severe leg fatigue, you should consult a doctor and undergo an examination. Only after the correct diagnosis has been made can adequate treatment be prescribed. Its main principles:

  • an integrated approach, a combination of drug therapy with non-drug therapy, local effects with systemic, symptomatic and pathogenetic treatment;
  • compliance of treatment methods with the stage and period (acute, subacute) of the disease;
  • continuity (if medications and physiotherapeutic procedures are prescribed in courses, then physical therapy and gymnastics must be done daily, and a constant diet must be followed);
  • systematic monitoring of the dynamics of the disease to correct the treatment regimen.
  • If you want to learn more about arthrosis of the big toe and treatment, read Myasnikov’s book “About the Most Important Thing,” which will serve as a source of valuable, reliable information. A.L. Myasnikov, a doctor of the highest category, is the author of a number of books on health, written in accessible language. Since 2013, he has been hosting the TV program “About the Most Important Thing” on the Russia 1 channel. Many programs are devoted to joint diseases, including arthrosis.

    Arthrosis is treated using different methods:

  • drug therapy;
  • physiotherapeutic procedures;
  • therapeutic massage, self-massage;
  • Exercise therapy, gymnastics, yoga, Pilates;
  • orthopedic correction;
  • sanatorium treatment courses;
  • treatment with traditional and non-traditional methods;
  • surgical intervention.
  • Treatment is aimed at relieving pain and preventing destruction and deformation of the joint. The goal is to normalize blood circulation and metabolic processes in the periarticular tissues, restore joint mobility, and prevent muscle atrophy. If arthrosis is secondary, developed against the background of an infectious, autoimmune, endocrine disease, it is necessary to begin by eliminating the root cause. At stages 1–2 of arthrosis of the big toe, treatment is predominantly conservative, although at stage 2 minimally invasive organ-preserving operations are possible. At stage 3, medications and procedures bring virtually no relief, and one has to resort to radical methods - surgical correction.

    Unfortunately, arthrosis of the big toe joint is rarely diagnosed at an early stage, since it can manifest mild symptoms for several years. Treatment is often started when the process of cartilage destruction has progressed far enough and deformation of the bone tissue has begun. First of all, it is necessary to reduce the load on the joint, eliminate the factors that provoke its destruction, relieve pain and inflammation, and, if possible, stimulate the regeneration of cartilage tissue. For pain and inflammation, a course of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is prescribed. Chondroprotectors help stop the destruction of cartilage tissue at stages 1–2. But arthrosis cannot be overcome with medications alone; lifestyle adjustments are needed:

  • you should adhere to a diet to normalize metabolism and lose excess weight (this is one of the main factors that provoke arthrosis of the foot joints);
  • you need to reduce the load on your legs and provide them with proper rest;
  • you will have to give up narrow, tight high-heeled shoes, replacing them with comfortable orthopedic ones;
  • prevention of stress is important, as it aggravates the destruction of joints;
  • As soon as the acute inflammatory process is stopped, it is necessary to begin performing the set of exercises recommended by the specialist.
  • Even patients with normal weight need to adjust their diet. Damage to joints:

  • fast food, instant cereals, snacks;
  • foods with preservatives, hot seasonings, ketchup, mayonnaise, excess salt;
  • sausages, smoked meats, fatty meats;
  • carbonated, alcoholic drinks, strong tea and coffee;
  • simple carbohydrates, confectionery, baked goods.
  • Useful:

    • lean meat, fatty fish;
    • low-fat fermented milk products (2.5–3.2% fat content);
    • porridges from various cereals, except white refined rice and semolina, wholemeal bread, legumes, and nuts and seeds in small quantities;
    • fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs, orange, pomegranate juices;
    • chicken and quail eggs.
    • Of the fats in the diet, unrefined vegetable oil should predominate. It is necessary to avoid rich broths and fried foods. Stewing in water, steaming, boiling, baking in foil are the optimal methods of heat treatment of food. If arthrosis has developed due to obesity, you should reduce your daily calorie intake. It is better to avoid fatty fish and nuts, although they contain useful substances. Strict mono-diets are strictly unacceptable; nutrition must be balanced. It is better to get vitamins and minerals from food, and not in the form of medicinal complexes.

      Orthopedic correction

      Patients with arthrosis of the big toe or other joints of the foot should not wear shoes with heels higher than 4 cm. Orthopedic shoes with arch supports help to distribute the load on the feet evenly. According to indications, the doctor may prescribe the following methods of orthopedic correction:

    • the use of orthopedic insoles, which ensure the correct position of the foot and relieve the load on the joint;
    • wearing spacers and thumb clamps, which prevent it from touching the small fingers and valgus deformity, reduce pain;
    • immobilization of the affected joint using a plaster cast or plaster boot.
    • The range of orthopedic devices for the thumb is wide, one of them is shown in the photo below. You should choose pads and retainers in accordance with your doctor's recommendations.

      Drug treatment

      For the symptomatic treatment of arthrosis, pain relief and inflammation, NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Diclofenac, Nimesulide) are most often used. They are available in different forms; the most effective is the combination of systemic use of tablets, powders with local application of ointments, gels, and creams. It should be borne in mind that these drugs have many side effects; the duration of their use, as a rule, should not exceed 2 weeks. In addition to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, the following can be used:

    • ointments with a local irritating, vasodilating, warming effect. They relieve pain, swelling, improve blood circulation in soft tissues, nutrition of cartilage tissue;
    • steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for acute inflammatory processes;
    • painkillers for severe pain.
    • Pathogenetic treatment is carried out using chondroprotectors and hyaluronic acid preparations. The former replenish the deficiency of cartilage tissue components, the latter – synovial fluid. Hyaluronic acid preparations are injected into the joint; usually 3–5 injections are sufficient per course, which are performed at weekly intervals. A year later the course is repeated. Thanks to such injections, the nutrition of the articular cartilage is normalized, its drying out is prevented, and painful friction of the articular surfaces is reduced. But this manipulation is used mainly for arthrosis of large joints.

      Chondroprotectors are used over a long course, orally, by injection and externally, in the form of ointments. Their use is most effective at stage 1 of the disease, sometimes it is even possible to restore cartilage and achieve stable remission.

      Non-drug treatment

      Of the physiotherapeutic procedures for arthrosis of the thumb, the most effective are laser and magnetic therapy, UHF, electrophoresis, ultrasound and phonophoresis, and SUV irradiation. Physiotherapy is usually carried out outside of an exacerbation. Therapeutic procedures have a complex effect, relieve pain and swelling, stimulate metabolic processes and tissue regeneration, and increase the plasticity of joints. In addition to hardware procedures, physiotherapeutic treatment methods include:

    • healing foot baths - radon, hydrogen sulfide, turpentine;
    • compresses with dimexide, bischofite, medical bile;
    • mud therapy, clay wraps;
    • ozokerite, paraffin applications and wraps.
    • You can maintain joint mobility and prevent muscle atrophy by regularly performing a set of exercises, supplementing them with self-massage techniques. When doing gymnastics and massage, it is necessary to develop not only the big toe, but also the 2nd to 5th toes, as well as the foot as a whole. Movements are performed for flexion-extension, abduction-adduction of the fingers, you need to pull the toe toward you and away from you, and rotate your feet. It is useful to roll a gymnastic stick and ball with your fingers, grab and lift pebbles. It is better to master self-massage techniques under the guidance of a professional massage therapist, and also periodically take courses in therapeutic massage in a clinic.

      Manual therapy techniques - manipulation and mobilization - can correct the position of the joint. They should be performed by a qualified specialist in the absence of contraindications.

      Traditional and alternative treatment

      If arthrosis of the big toe is diagnosed, treatment with folk remedies cannot replace drug therapy and procedures, but successfully complements them. Traditional methods of treatment include:

    • compresses with cabbage leaves, burdock, a mixture of aloe juice with honey and vodka, steamed medicinal herbs (chamomile, sweet clover, elderberry leaves, hop cones);
    • lubrication with bone tar, oil tincture of celandine, Vaseline ointment with sweet clover powder, St. John's wort, hops;
    • rubbing wild rosemary, sweet clover, dandelion root, and burdock with alcohol tinctures;
    • applications with mixtures of honey and aloe, soap and kerosene, medical bile and camphor;
    • foot baths with medicinal herbs (clover, oregano, string), pine branches, oat straw;
    • taking herbal tinctures and decoctions to cleanse joints and relieve inflammation.
    • In consultation with your doctor, you can resort to alternative medicine methods:

    • acupuncture;
    • hirudotherapy - treatment with leeches;
    • apitherapy - treatment with bee stings.
    • If conservative treatment is ineffective, the doctor may decide to perform surgery on the limb. The most common surgical methods include:

      • arthroscopy – removal of loose bodies from the joint cavity through a small incision;
      • resection of overgrown bone tissue to eliminate bone friction in the joint;
      • osteotomy – fracture of a bone(s) and alignment of the fragments in the correct position;
      • arthrodesis - removal of the remains of a destroyed joint and the formation of a fixed joint of bones;
      • endoprosthetics – replacement of a joint with an artificial one.
      • Treatment methods for arthrosis of the big toe are varied, but most of them are effective until changes in the joint become irreversible. At a late stage, treatment with chondroprotectors is absolutely useless; medications and physiotherapeutic procedures bring short-term relief. The exercises cannot be performed due to complete immobilization of the joint and intense pain. Most surgeries only relieve pain but do not restore joint function. Therefore, if you suspect arthrosis, you should not delay visiting a doctor and starting treatment.

        Arthrosis of the big toe - treatment by an orthopedist

        Diseases of the joints of the lower extremities prevent a person from moving normally, disrupt the quality of life, causing severe attacks of pain. The so-called bunions in the area of ​​the first toe, growing to large sizes, often become a cause of disability. Therefore, it is so important to start treatment for arthrosis of the big toe on time. Adequate therapy can restore health and beauty to the feet.

        Many people know what arthrosis of the big toe joint is. This pathology is often confused with manifestations of gout, which also affects the joints, but is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals inside the joint. You need to know what causes the appearance of a bunion, as arthrosis is popularly called, whether this disease can be prevented, which methods of treating and preventing arthrosis of the first toe are the most effective.

        The disease is associated with damage to the cartilage tissue of the finger joint, which loses its elasticity and elasticity. Therefore, intra-articular cartilage no longer performs a shock-absorbing function. Gradually, the degenerative process spreads to the ligaments, tendons and bones of the toes. They experience too much stress while driving. Blood circulation in the tissues of the affected joints deteriorates. Osteochondral growths - osteophytes - begin to form.

        Gradually, changes in the size and shape of the articular surfaces lead to the fact that the muscles located in the immediate vicinity of the affected joint begin to atrophy. There is limited mobility of the big toe. The structure of the tissues that make up the joint changes - cysts and fibrous foci appear in them, the joint capsule thickens and loses its elasticity.

        Pathological processes cause deformation of the big toe joint, the severity of which depends on how advanced the disease is. In severe cases, there is a deviation from the physiological position and deformation of not only the first, but also other toes.

        The main provoking factors for the occurrence of arthrosis of the thumb are injuries, as well as wearing uncomfortable or tight shoes. For the development of the disease, a bruise or fracture of the bones of the foot is enough, the treatment of which at one time did not receive due attention. After some time, post-traumatic deformation forms on the fingers.

        For women who want to look attractive, beautiful shoes are an integral part of their everyday wardrobe. However, experts say that narrow-toed, high-heeled shoes are the main enemy of the health of women's feet.

        If you wear them often, deforming arthrosis of the foot joints gradually occurs.

        Other factors that provoke pathology include the following:

      • congenital anomalies of the structure of the joints of the feet;
      • different leg lengths;
      • systematic hypothermia of the lower extremities;
      • diseases of the endocrine system;
      • metabolic disease;
      • chronic joint diseases with frequent exacerbations.
      • How does the disease manifest itself?

        At the initial stage of development of the pathological process, the symptoms accompanying it are almost invisible. Painful sensations in the feet appear only after a long walk in uncomfortable shoes.

        The joints still remain mobile. But with the development of a disease such as arthrosis of the big toe bone, pain in the joint area becomes more intense and can be disturbing at rest. It is accompanied by a characteristic crunch that occurs when the finger is bent.

        The following signs of the disease also appear:

      • deterioration of foot mobility in the affected area;
      • signs of joint inflammation;
      • the thumb changes its position and configuration.
      • Other troubles may be added to the problems listed above. One of the complications of the process is bursitis, or inflammation of the joint capsule. The foot along the inner edge acquires a reddish tint and becomes hot to the touch. The person is tormented by unbearable pain even when the foot is lightly touched.

        Arthrosis manifests itself as pain when walking, often impairing movement. After a few hours of rest, the pain in the feet goes away. Arthritis resulting from deformation and chronic trauma of the legs is characterized by increased pain at night, which disrupts sleep. Often the foot begins to ache as the weather changes approach, on the eve of rain.

        In advanced cases, a violation of the anatomical structure of the joint leads to a change in the shape of the entire foot. All fingers gradually deviate towards the little finger. Correcting such a deformation is extremely difficult.

        How to treat pathology

        The doctor’s choice of therapeutic methods for arthrosis of the big toe depends on the stage of the disease and the severity of the main symptoms. It is almost impossible to completely correct a finger deformity. Therefore, the main task of the specialist is to relieve the patient of pain and help restore the ability to move normally. Therapy is especially effective at the initial stage of the pathological process.

        Orthopedic techniques and physiotherapy

        For anyone who comes with problems such as post-traumatic arthrosis of the big toe or foot deformity caused by other reasons, orthopedists recommend first of all to stop wearing uncomfortable shoes. They advise women to forget about heels higher than 3 cm. They should give preference to comfortable sports models that, even during long walks, do not create discomfort to the legs and spine.

        Orthopedists also recommend using insoles with arch supports. They are manufactured in prosthetic workshops, taking into account all the individual characteristics of the foot. Today you can purchase a special leg brace. It is worn on the deformed foot at night to straighten it. To consolidate the effect during the day, doctors advise using silicone pads placed between the fingers so that they do not close together.

        The use of all these orthopedic techniques is effective in the initial stages of pathological changes. In addition to them, for a comprehensive effect, a massage is recommended that normalizes the tone of the foot muscles. Also, in the presence of deformation of the joints of the toes, physiotherapeutic procedures are used.

        Of these, the most commonly used methods are:

      • magnetic and laser therapy;
      • ultrasound (phonophoresis with anti-inflammatory drugs);
      • wraps with therapeutic mud, ozokerite applications;
      • radon baths.
      • At home, you can rub the joints of the first toe yourself with pharmaceutical ointments containing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory components, or use self-made potions based on juniper and bischofite.

        Compresses on the sore foot with slightly warmed bile, carried out in a course, are effective. Be sure to regularly perform a simple set of exercises aimed at strengthening the muscles of the lower extremities, which your treating specialist will help you choose.

        Drug therapy

        In case of severe pain, a course of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Movalis) may be prescribed. Sometimes intra-articular administration of drugs is practiced, the main component of which is hyaluronic acid (Giastat, Fermatron, Synvisc). Usually the course involves 3 to 5 injections, but sometimes a single injection of the medicine is enough to restore the volume of missing intra-articular fluid.

        Doctors are required to prescribe chondroprotectors for patients suffering from arthrosis of the little toe or big toe. These may be drugs intended for oral or intramuscular administration. Thus, Teraflex, Artra, Piaskledin are recommended for internal use; Alflutop, Chondrolone, Adgelon are used in injection form.

        Surgical techniques for arthrosis of the big toe

        If conservative treatment does not bring the expected result, the joint deformity progresses, experts recommend surgical treatment methods to their patients. The operations are low-traumatic and are performed under local anesthesia. Usually after them you have to stay in the hospital under the supervision of doctors for only 1-2 days.

        There are several types of surgical techniques, of which the most commonly used methods are:

      • arthroscopy, during which a probe is inserted into the cavity of the diseased joint, with its help pieces of destroyed cartilage and bone tissue are removed through a small incision on the finger;
      • cheilectomy, which involves complete removal of deforming growths covering the surface of the digital phalanges, as well as the articular capsule;
      • resection, in which the damaged area of ​​the joint is cut away.
      • Modern orthopedics increasingly considers replacing a damaged joint with an endoprosthesis as an effective method of treatment.

        If you notice that a bulging bone has appeared on your leg, you should not put off a visit to an orthopedist for too long. In the early stages, the disease responds well to treatment. By following all the recommendations of your doctor, you can forget about foot pain for a long time and regain the joy of movement.

        Symptoms of foot arthrosis and methods of treating the disease

        For many people, a pressing problem is the treatment of arthrosis of the foot. This pathology can occur at any age. However, in most cases it is women who face it. Basically, the occurrence of this problem is provoked by increased physical activity, as well as situations where it is unevenly distributed. When arthrosis of the foot develops, the symptoms and therapy for this disease have their own characteristics. In this, this disease differs from other joint diseases.

        Among the varieties of this disease, one of the forms is arthrosis of the ankle joint, which, when developed, leads to certain problems with movement in a person. If we talk about arthrosis of the legs in general, then it is a disease that poses a serious danger to health , and therefore requires prompt treatment after diagnosis.

        Regardless of its location, arthrosis of the foot is a degenerative-dystrophic lesion of the joints in the process of gradual destruction of articular tissues. This occurs in conditions of dystrophic disorders that develop and are accompanied by the appearance of inflammatory reactions.

        A disease that occurs in the joint, which is in the progression stage, leads to structural changes in the tissues. In addition, there is a loss of elasticity of the cartilage tissue and subsequent ossification with further destruction of cartilage , as well as the appearance of cracks and defects in the form of various cracks and compactions.

        One of the features of arthrosis of the legs is the fact that the pathology does not extend beyond the joint in which the degenerative process arose. Quite serious changes occur in the area of ​​the joint where the disease is localized:

      • deformation and destruction occurs;
      • serious biochemical changes occur in the joint tissues;
      • mobility impairments occur.
      • Although experts classify arthrosis as a regenerative disease, the processes of cartilage destruction nevertheless lead to inflammatory reactions that are localized in the soft periarticular tissues. And this circumstance leads to a worsening of the clinical picture. There is a significant deterioration in the blood supply to the joint, and the metabolic processes developing in it also slow down.

        It should be noted that arthrosis of the foot is a chronic that develops in a certain order. The periods of remission that occur during the course of this disease alternate with phases of exacerbation, when the patient feels pronounced symptoms inherent in this disease.

        Based on the nature of the onset of this disease, arthrosis of the foot can be divided into primary and secondary forms. On a completely healthy joint, which is free of any pathology, primary arthritis most often occurs. However, this only happens if certain conditions arise. The secondary form of the disease is a consequence of another type of disease or mechanical damage to the joint.

        Experts distinguish several stages in the development of foot arthrosis. When this joint disease is diagnosed, the doctor prescribes therapy. When choosing a treatment regimen for arthrosis of the big toe, the features characteristic of this pathology are taken into account. The following stages of this disease are distinguished:

      • First stage. The joint space narrows slightly, however, the resulting destructive processes in the joint have not yet become irreversible. At this stage of the development of the disease, the symptoms that arise are expressed mainly by the appearance of pain, which is insignificant for the patient and usually occurs after a long walk, as well as due to rapid fatigue of the person.
      • Second stage. This stage of the disease is accompanied by a narrowing of the joint space, which is pronounced. In addition, the process of growth of bone osteophytes begins to develop. The pain syndrome becomes more intense, and disturbances in joint mobility occur. In addition, a state of swelling occurs.
      • Third stage. It is characterized by the following manifestations. There is a significant narrowing of the gap up to complete closure, which leads to the destruction of the speech lining and, as a result, numerous bone growths appear. The development of this phase of the disease is characterized by the appearance of serious deformation of the foot. Even at rest, the patient begins to feel pain in the area of ​​the inflamed bone and begins to experience lameness.
      • Diagnostic features

        In order for the emerging disease to be stopped, it is necessary to carry out therapy based on the results of a diagnostic examination. An important point for a specialist is to establish the stage of development of the disease, as well as to differentiate the pathology from other types of joint lesions, in particular from arthritis. Along with this, a significant point is to determine the possibility of an inflammatory process during the development of the disease.

        In order for the diagnosis to be made accurately, test is performed , and in addition, a test for CRP and uric acid is taken, and rheumatoid samples are taken. To clarify the diagnosis, an x-ray is taken in two projections. This examination method makes it possible to identify the degree of narrowing of the joint space, as well as to see the formation of bone growths. A procedure such as arthroscopy allows a more detailed examination of the condition of the diseased joint. Ultrasound, CT and MRI are additional clarifying research methods.

        A characteristic sign by which a disease such as arthrosis of the foot is determined is the development of processes of atrophy of joint tissue , therefore a number of lesions during the development of this disease are irreversible. Only when the disease of the joints of the leg bones develops at an initial stage, is it possible to provide medication for the restoration of articular cartilage.

        If the pathology is in an advanced state, then in this case the main goal of treating arthrosis of the small joints of the foot is to stop the development of the destructive process, as well as to minimize the risk of relapse and maximize the possible restoration of motor function for a person with a diseased joint. When diagnosing arthrosis, including arthrosis of the lower leg, during therapy, specialists mainly focus on the complex effect of various treatment methods.

        It is worth saying that arthrosis of the foot can be treated using medicinal methods of therapy based on the use of a wide group of drugs. Also, the treatment of diseases of the joints of the leg bones may include surgical intervention, which is used only in severe cases. When using medicinal methods to influence a diseased joint, therapeutic exercises, physiotherapy, and along with them therapeutic massage and reflexology are used.

        High effectiveness in the treatment of arthrosis of the big toe cannot be achieved even at home, unless the undesirable effects on the affected joint are eliminated. The following prevention conditions must be ensured:

      • the patient must get rid of excess weight, and, in addition, bring his diet back to normal;
      • lifestyle should be intensified, and in addition, regular walks and physical exercise should be introduced into daily practice;
      • a person suffering from arthrosis of the thumb must ensure timely rest of sufficient duration;
      • You need to choose the right size and optimal shoe model. The heel should not be higher than 4 cm. Also, for greater comfort, special insoles should be used;
      • walking on a hard surface barefoot.

      When treating arthrosis of the foot, it is necessary to resort to the following treatment regimens:

    • When the disease is at an initial stage, the patient is recommended to wear orthopedic shoes and insoles, use methods of physiotherapy and exercise therapy, as well as therapeutic massage. For effective therapy, non-steroidal drugs can be prescribed, as well as measures to prevent the disease.
    • When the disease develops in the second and third stages, then in this case the specialist has every right to prescribe analgesics to the patient, administer medications to the joint, and carry out surgical treatment in severe cases of arthrosis of the thumb.
    • Treatment of arthrosis of the big toe with medications

      When treating arthrosis of the foot, drug-based therapy is usually prescribed. When carrying out such therapy, specialists use a complex method . In this case, the patient is prescribed drugs belonging to different groups. The patient's treatment regimen is individual in nature. When choosing it, the doctor takes into account the stage of development of the disease, the age of the patient, and in addition the characteristics of his body. Typically, a rheumatologist should treat a disease such as arthrosis of the foot.

      When conducting therapy, including at home, one of the important tasks is to eliminate pain. For this purpose, medications are used that have an analgesic effect. Most often, nonsteroidal drugs that have an anti-inflammatory effect are prescribed.

      The most commonly used medications for arthrosis of the thumb are Paracetamol, Diclofenac and Aceclofenac. Taking Indomethacin is one of the most effective treatment options for arthrosis. Taking it to patients allows you to speed up the process of restoration of cartilage tissue . As prescribed by the doctor, the patient can also take medications such as Nimesulide or Meloxicam.

      Stopping the destruction of cartilage, and in addition the resumption of the process of regeneration of cartilage tissue with the development of various types of arthrosis, including arthrosis of the interphalangeal joints of the foot, are among the main goals of drug therapy. In order to ensure this, chondroprotectors . Chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid are most often prescribed. Note that these drugs can be taken orally or they can be injected directly into the joint. Alflutop and Chondroguard are used for injections. In order to restore synovial fluid in the joint, Synvisc or Fermatron and other drugs are prescribed.

      If, as the pathology develops, an inflammatory reaction , which can be caused by a fracture of the metatarsal bone, then in addition to drugs aimed at restoring cartilage tissue, you will have to take medications belonging to the group of glucocorticoids such as Kenalog, Diprospan. The best effect is achieved if these drugs are used simultaneously with anesthetics, for example, Lidocaine. In order to eliminate muscle spasms during treatment, muscle relaxants are prescribed.

      In severe cases, surgical treatment may be used as a last resort. If we talk about the main forms of this method of treating the disease, they include:

    • arthrodex, which is based on fixation of the affected joint;
    • arthroplasty, which includes the restoration of joints by surgical methods with the replacement of destroyed tissue;
    • endoprosthetics, which involves installing an artificial element instead of a destroyed joint.
    • Arthrosis of the thumb is a dangerous disease. If you do not begin to treat this disease in a timely manner, it can negatively affect a person’s health and negatively affect the quality of life. A pathology that is in a state of progression can lead to a person’s mobility being noticeably reduced , and in severe cases, this can result in disability.

      When symptoms of the disease are detected, it is necessary to carry out timely treatment of arthrosis of the legs. Only in this case does it become possible to defeat the disease and maintain healthy joints.

      Arthrosis of the big toe: etiology, clinical symptoms, treatment tactics

      Arthrosis of the big toe is a degenerative-dystrophic joint pathology. The lesion affects the cartilaginous tissue of the articular surfaces of the joints in the big toe. The disease occurs more often in women.

      Causes

      It is important to know! Doctors are shocked: “An effective and affordable remedy for ARTHROSIS exists. " Read more.

      A number of causative factors can be identified, the presence and action of which contributes to the manifestation and progression of the disease:

    • hereditary predisposition;
    • injuries at home and during work (arthrosis of the toes often occurs in dancers and football players);
    • diseases of the endocrine system: thyroid disease, diabetes, hormonal imbalance as a result of taking steroid drugs and during menopause;
    • frostbite;
    • foot deformities, either congenital or acquired (flat feet and other pathologies):
    • wearing the wrong shoes - too narrow or simply uncomfortable;
    • excess body weight, which increases the load on the legs.
    • The listed factors, alone or in combination with each other, can lead to the development of arthrosis of the big toe.

      Symptoms of the disease

      Clinical symptoms of the pathology:

    • pain syndrome of varying intensity. The pain can be sharp or constant, aching;
    • changes in the severity of pain depending on weather conditions - when it gets cold, the disease often worsens;
    • a feeling of numbness in the toes as a result of impaired circulatory processes;
    • a feeling of stiffness in the joints, “crunching” when performing movements, especially sudden ones;
    • swelling and redness of the tissues around the affected joint;
    • deformations of the affected joints.
    • The listed symptoms may manifest themselves to varying degrees depending on the stage of development of the pathology.

      Stages of arthrosis

      In the pathogenesis of arthrosis of the big toe, there are 3 stages, the clinical features of which are discussed in the table below.

      You should seek medical help if you experience mild discomfort in the area of ​​your big toe. Early detection of the disease significantly increases the success of the course of therapeutic correction.

      In case of arthrosis, differential diagnosis with arthritis is necessary. The clinical symptoms of the diseases have many similarities, but the etiopathogenesis of the diseases is very different. Arthritis is characterized by a predominance of the inflammatory component, and with arthrosis, degenerative-dystrophic processes occur. Only a specialist can make a correct diagnosis based on anamnestic data, clinical symptoms, and the results of instrumental and laboratory tests.

      Treatment of arthrosis of the big toe

      The diagnosis of “arthrosis of the big toe” requires complex and long-term treatment. Goals of disease correction:

    • reducing the load on the area of ​​the affected joint - for this you need to wear a bandage, maintain bed rest, choose comfortable orthopedic shoes;
    • restoration of normal mobility in the joint. For this purpose, massage and physiotherapeutic procedures, drug treatment are prescribed;
    • elimination of pain and inflammation. For this purpose, mainly external forms of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used, but forms for internal administration can be prescribed;
    • restoration of metabolic processes in affected tissues with the help of medications and physiotherapy.
    • It is extremely important to restore the trophism of the joint: insufficient nutrition aggravates the decrease in mobility and provokes the progression of the disease.

      If we classify methods for correcting pathology, we can distinguish two groups - conservative and surgical methods of treating arthrosis. Let's look at both groups of therapeutic techniques in detail.

      Conservative therapy

      Conservative treatment allows you to eliminate the symptoms of the disease and start regenerative processes in the affected cartilage tissues. The main methods of conservative therapy are discussed in the table.

      Analgesic drugs are used for pain relief: spasmalgon, analgin. To eliminate the inflammatory process, NSAIDs and steroid medications are prescribed. Chondroprotective agents are needed, supporting drugs to accelerate regeneration and restore trophism of the affected area

      Dr. Sperling will talk about the treatment of arthrosis:

      In addition to the listed methods, other methods are also needed to eliminate the factors that provoke pathology: excess body weight, treatment of endocrine pathologies, control of the level of load on the feet.

      Ointments: the basis of drug therapy

      Even “advanced” ARTHROSIS can be cured at home! Just remember to apply this once a day.

      In the treatment of arthrosis of the big toe, the following groups of ointments are used:

    • warming and vasodilating;
    • anti-inflammatory and analgesic.
    • The composition of warming and vasodilating ointments may include bee venom, red pepper extract, and snake venom. Such components have a pronounced pharmacological effect. Representatives of this group:

      Preparations from the group of warming ointments cannot be used if there are open wound surfaces on the skin at the sites of intended application.

      The group of anti-inflammatory and analgesic ointments includes products containing:

    • diclofenac (part of Voltaren and other drugs);
    • ketoprofen (Ketonal Gel, Bystrum Gel);
    • indomethacin (Metindol);
    • nimesulide (Nise, Nimulid);
    • dimethyl sulfoxide (Dolobene).
    • Any of these ointments should be used only after the recommendation of a specialist. The duration of the prescribed course of therapy should not be exceeded. If external agents do not have a pronounced effect, you should consult your doctor about adjusting treatment measures. The specialist will select medications for internal use or prescribe medications in injection form. If the disease is advanced, surgical methods for treating the pathology may be required.

      Surgical methods

      In the later stages of development of the pathology, it is difficult to cope with the clinical symptoms of arthrosis and completely restore the functionality of the joints. Therefore, in some cases, a decision is made about the need to use surgical methods to correct the situation.

      Clinical cases in which surgery is needed correspond to the third stage of pathology and include the following manifestations:

    • extreme degree of destruction of the cartilage tissue of the joint;
    • intense pain syndrome;
    • low susceptibility to drug therapy.
    • Previously, surgical correction included the following techniques:

    • resection arthroplasty, which involves removing altered areas of the articulation;
    • arthrodesis, in which the joint is immobilized.
    • More modern techniques are now used:

    • arthroscopy, in which particles of destroyed cartilage are removed from the joint cavity;
    • cheilectomy - removal of growths on the phalanges and articular capsule.
    • Medicine in the later stages of the disease offers endoprosthesis replacement of the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe.

      Before any surgical intervention, an X-ray examination is required.

      A very detailed video about surgical treatment of the metatarsophalangeal joint:

      Preventive actions

      The metatarsophalangeal joint must withstand the heaviest load. Therefore, it is important to follow the recommendations for the prevention of degenerative-dystrophic and inflammatory diseases of the joints of the toes.

      You should pay special attention to the choice of shoes. If pain occurs when wearing shoes, not even when moving, but in a calm state, you must immediately change them to orthopedic ones. Your doctor can recommend suitable models.

      For the treatment and prevention of ARTHROSIS, our readers use a method of quick and non-surgical treatment recommended by leading rheumatologists in Russia, who decided to speak out against pharmaceutical lawlessness and presented a medicine that REALLY TREATS! We have become familiar with this technique and decided to bring it to your attention. Read more.

      It is necessary to exercise; Yoga, Pilates, and swimming are especially good as preventive methods. Doctors advise regularly undergoing sanatorium-resort treatment, including swimming in mineral waters, physiotherapy, and mud therapy.

      The listed preventive measures are suitable for preventing the disease and preventing the progression of an already diagnosed pathology. When diagnosed with arthrosis of the big toe joint, treatment should include preventive methods, and not just standard methods of conservative treatment. It is important to follow all medical recommendations to achieve positive dynamics of the disease.

      How to forget about joint pain and arthrosis?

      • Joint pain limits your movements and full life...
      • You are worried about discomfort, crunching and systematic pain...
      • You may have tried a bunch of medications, creams and ointments...
      • But judging by the fact that you are reading these lines, they did not help you much...
      • But orthopedist Valentin Dikul claims that a truly effective remedy for ARTHROSIS exists! Read more >>>

        If you want to get the same treatment, ask us how?

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