Osteoarthritis, as it is medically known, is a degenerative joint disease that occurs as a result of the wear of the cartilage structure in the joints over time. Joint calcification, It can cause joint pain, limited movement and decreased quality of life. Although it is usually seen with advancing age, it can also develop at a young age due to various factors.
What is Joint Calcification?
It is a disease that occurs when the cartilage covering the joints wears out and loses its function over time. Cartilage prevents the bones from rubbing against each other and allows the joints to move easily. However, if the cartilage structure is damaged, the joint surfaces come into direct contact. This leads to problems such as pain, swelling and limited movement.
What Causes Joint Calcification?
Joint calcification It can be caused by various reasons. With increasing age, cartilage tissue weakens and the wear process accelerates. The risk is higher in individuals with a family history of this condition. Excess weight causes excessive pressure on weight-bearing joints such as the knee and hip, causing the cartilage to wear out more quickly. Impacts to the joint areas, fractures or dislocations can accelerate calcification. The risk of development is higher in athletes, those who work in heavy jobs or in occupational groups that put excessive load on the joints. Congenital or acquired joint structure disorders can increase cartilage wear.
Symptoms of Joint Calcification
Symptoms of joint arthritis It may vary according to the stage of the disease. Pain that increases with movement and decreases with rest is one of the most common symptoms. After a long period of inactivity, a feeling of stiffness occurs in the joints. As the disease progresses, there is a decrease in the range of motion of the joint. Swelling and tenderness may develop around the joint due to the wear of the cartilage. A crackling sound coming from the joint during movement is one of the typical symptoms. In advanced stages, the joint shape may deteriorate and loss of function may occur.
How is Arthritis Diagnosed?
The diagnosis is made by a physical examination by the doctor and some diagnostic tests. The patient's complaints, the severity and duration of the pain are evaluated. Osteoarthritis symptoms such as bone spurs in the joint space are detected with X-rays. Magnetic resonance imaging is used to visualize the cartilage structure in detail. Some blood tests may be done to exclude other joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
How is Arthritis Treated?
Paracetamol and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are used to relieve pain. In severe pain, corticosteroid injections can be given into the joint. Hyaluronic acid injections can be given into the joint to increase joint lubrication. Low-impact exercises such as light walking, swimming and cycling support joint health. Special exercise programs are applied to strengthen muscles and increase joint movement.
Hot or cold compresses can be used to reduce pain and inflammation. It is important to maintain a healthy body weight, as being overweight puts extra stress on the joints. Consuming foods rich in omega-3, collagen, vitamin C and antioxidants is beneficial for joint health. Knee braces, insoles and special shoes can reduce the load on the joints. In mild cases, joint cleaning and cartilage correction surgery can be performed. In advanced cases of osteoarthritis, joint replacements (knee or hip replacement) can be applied.
Conclusion
Joint calcification, It is a progressive and chronic disease. However, with early diagnosis and correct treatment methods, patients' quality of life increases. Joint health can be protected with exercise, healthy nutrition and appropriate treatment methods. If you are experiencing joint pain and limited movement, it is important to see a doctor and have early intervention.
