Cryst in joints and age -related changes

Cryst in joints and age -related changes: complex guide

I. Anatomy of the joints: the basis of the understanding of the cryst

1. The structure of the synovial joint: To understand the nature of the crunch in the joints, it is necessary to understand their structure. A typical synovial joint, the most common type in the body, includes:

   • Joint surfaces of the bones: The ends of the bones forming the joint are covered with smooth hyalin cartilage.
   • Hyalin cartilage: This specialized tissue provides bones sliding relative to each other with minimal friction. The cartilage amortizes the blows and evenly distributes the load. It consists of chondrocytes (cartilage cells) and a rich extracellular matrix, consisting of collagen, proteoglycans and water. It is important to note that hyaline cartilage does not have blood vessels and nerve endings, which makes it difficult to restore when damaged.
   • The joint capsule: A dense fibrous membrane surrounding the joint, providing its stability and tightness.
   • Synovial shell: The inner layer of the joint capsule lining the joint cavity and producing the synovial fluid.
   • Synovial fluid: A viscous, transparent liquid filling the joint cavity. It performs several important functions: lubricates the joint surfaces, reducing friction; nourishes cartilage, delivering the necessary nutrients; removes metabolic waste from cartilage; And shocks the blows. The synovial fluid contains hyaluronic acid, which gives it viscosity and elasticity.
   • Blues: Durable strips of connective tissue connecting the bones and ensure the stability of the joint. The ligaments limit the range of movements, preventing excessive bone displacement.
   • Meniski (in some joints, for example, in the knee): Sick -shaped cartilaginous structures located between the articular surfaces of the bones. Meniscs improve the congruence of the joint surfaces, amortize the shocks and distribute the load.

2. Joint types: Different types of joints in the body provide a different range of movements:

   • Sherrovid joints (shoulder, hip): Provide the largest range of movements in all planes.
   • Hinged joints (elbow, knee): Provide movement in only one plane (flexion and extension).
   • Drilling joints (carpal-pattern joint of the thumb of the hand): Provide movement in two planes (bending-extinguishing and abduction-application).
   • Ellipsoid joints (wrist): Provide movement in two planes, but with a smaller range than saddle.
   • Sliding joints (between the vertebrae): Provide a slight slide and rotation.
   • Osaw joints (Atlanto-Axial joint): Provide rotation.

3. Joint movement mechanics: The normal movement of the joint depends on the integrity of all its components. The sliding of the joint surfaces is provided by hyalin cartilage and synovial fluid. The muscles surrounding the joint provide strength and control of movement. The nervous system coordinates the functioning of the muscles and provides feedback on the position and movement of the joint (propriocetic).

II. Crown of Cryst in the joints

1. Physiological causes (normal crunch): Not always a crunch in the joints is a sign of the disease. There are physiological causes that do not require treatment:

   • Cavitation: The most common cause of crunch. Gases (oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide) are dissolved in the synovial fluid. With a sharp stretch of the joint, the pressure in the joint cavity decreases, and the gases form the bubbles. When the bubbles are collapsed, there is a sound resembling a crunch or click. This process is absolutely painless and not harmful to the joint.
   • The movement of ligaments and tendons: The ligaments and tendons surrounding the joint can shift and roll through bone ledges. It can also cause clicks or crunch, especially with certain movements.
   • Roughness on the articular surfaces: Small irregularities on the articular surfaces, not associated with serious cartilage damage, can cause a crunch when moving.

2. Pathological causes (crunch associated with diseases): When the crunch is accompanied by pain, swelling, movement restriction or other symptoms, this may indicate a pathological state:

   • Osteoarthritis (osteoarthritis): The most common joint disease associated with age -related changes and wear of the cartilage. The gradual destruction of the cartilage leads to the friction of the bones against each other, causing pain, constraint and crunch. Cryst with osteoarthritis is often described as crepiting (rattle).
   • Joint injuries: Damage to cartilage, ligaments or menisci (in the knee joint) can lead to crunch. For example, meniscus rupture can cause clicks and joint lock.
   • Rheumatoid arthritis: Autoimmune disease affecting joints. Inflammation of the synovial membrane leads to the destruction of cartilage and bones, causing pain, swelling and crunch.
   • Other inflammatory joint diseases (gout, psoriatic arthritis): These diseases can also cause inflammation and damage to the joints, leading to crunch.
   • Hondromalation: Softening and destruction of cartilage, is often observed in the knee cup (Patella). Chondromation can cause pain in the knee and crunch when moving.
   • Joint dysplasia: Violation of the development of the joint, which can lead to instability and crunch.
   • Synovitis: Inflammation of the synovial membrane, leading to an increase in the volume of synovial fluid and swelling of the joint.
   • Tendinitis and Tendovaginitis: Inflammation of the tendons and their membranes, which can cause a crunch when the tendon in the shell.
   • Bursit: Inflammation of the synovial bag (bors), a small bag filled with liquid, which reduces the friction between bones, tendons and muscles.

III. Age -related changes and crunch in the joints

1. Changes in the Cartensation: With age, hyaline cartilage undergoes a number of changes:

   • Reduced water content: The cartilage becomes more dry and less elastic.
   • Reducing the content of proteoglycans: Proteoglycans are responsible for holding water in cartilage. With their decrease, cartilage loses its elasticity and the ability to amortize blows.
   • Damage to collagen fibers: Collagen fibers that make up the basis of cartilage become more fragile and are subject to damage.
   • Reducing the number of chondrocytes: Chondrocytes, cartilage cells, decrease in quantity with age and reduce their activity, which makes it difficult to restore cartilage.
   • Increasing the likelihood of cracking and defects: As a result of all these changes, cartilage becomes more vulnerable to damage, and cracks and defects can form on its surface.

2. Changes in the synovial fluid: With age, synovial fluid also changes its properties:

   • Reduced viscosity: The synovial fluid becomes less viscous and loses its lubricant.
   • Reducing the content of hyaluronic acid: Hyaluronic acid is the main component of the synovial fluid that provides its viscosity. With age, the content of hyaluronic acid is reduced.
   • Increasing the content of inflammatory mediators: In the synovial fluid, the content of inflammatory substances may increase, which contribute to the destruction of cartilage.

3. Changes in the bones: Changes also undergo changes with age:

   • Reduced bone density (osteoporosis): The bones become more fragile and are subject to fractures.
   • Education of osteophytes (bone growths): Osteophytes are bone growths that are formed along the edges of the articular surfaces. They can limit movement and cause pain.
   • Changing the shape of the articular surfaces: With age, the shape of the articular surfaces may change, which leads to a violation of the congruent (correspondence) of the articular surfaces.

4. Changes in ligaments and tendons: With age, the ligaments and tendons become less elastic and more prone to damage:

   • Decrease in elasticity: The ligaments and tendons lose their elasticity and become less flexible.
   • Reducing the content of collagen: Collagen is the main component of ligaments and tendons. With age, the collagen content decreases, which makes them more fragile.
   • Milia of blood supply: The blood supply to the ligaments and tendons deteriorates with age, which complicates their restoration in case of damage.

5. The influence of lifestyle factors: Life lifestyle factors, such as physical activity, nutrition and bad habits, also affect the condition of the joints with age:

   • Low physical activity: The lack of physical activity leads to the weakening of the muscles surrounding the joints, and the deterioration of the blood supply to the cartilage.
   • Overweight: Excessive weight creates an additional load on the joints, especially on the knee and hip, which accelerates the wear of the cartilage.
   • Inal meals: The lack of nutrients necessary for the health of the joints (for example, vitamin D, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids) can negatively affect the condition of cartilage and bones.
   • Smoking: Smoking worsens the blood supply to the joints and slows down the recovery processes.
   • Alcohol abuse: Alcohol abuse can negatively affect the condition of bones and cartilage.

IV. Cryst diagnosis in joints

1. Anamnesis collection and physical inspection: The first stage of the diagnosis includes a detailed poll of the patient about the nature of the crunch (frequency, volume, presence of pain, connection with certain movements), the history of diseases of the joints in the family, injured and lifestyle. During a physical examination, the doctor evaluates the range of movements in the joint, the presence of edema, pain during palpation, joint deformation and other symptoms.

2. Instrumental diagnostic methods:

   • Radiography: The most common method of diagnosing joint diseases. X -ray allows you to assess the condition of the bones, the presence of osteophytes, narrowing of the joint gap (with osteoarthritis) and other changes.
   • Magnetic resonance tomography (MRI): A more sensitive method than radiography. MRI allows you to visualize soft tissues, such as cartilage, ligaments and meniscus, and detect their damage. MRI is often used to diagnose meniscus ruptures, ligaments and chondromation.
   • Computed tomography (CT): CT allows you to get more detailed images of bones than radiography. CT can be used to diagnose fractures and other bone pathologies.
   • Ultrasound examination (ultrasound): Ultrasound allows you to visualize soft tissues, such as tendons, ligaments and synovial shell. Ultrasound can be used to diagnose tendinitis, bursitis and synovitis.

3. Laboratory diagnostic methods:

   • General blood test: A general blood test can help identify inflammatory processes in the body.
   • Biochemical blood test: Biochemical blood test can help identify signs of rheumatoid arthritis, gout and other joint diseases.
   • Analysis of synovial fluid (joint puncture): Analysis of synovial fluid can help establish the cause of the joint inflammation. During the analysis, color, viscosity, cell composition and the presence of crystals (for example, with gout) are evaluated.

V. Treatment of crunch in the joints

1. Conservative treatment:

   • Life change change:
     • Weight loss: Reducing weight helps to reduce the load on the joints, especially on the knee and hip.
     • Regular physical exercises: Regular physical exercises help strengthen the muscles surrounding the joints, and improve the blood supply to the cartilage. Low shock load exercises are recommended, such as swimming, walking and cycling.
     • Proper nutrition: Balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, is necessary for joint health. It is recommended to consume foods rich in vitamin D, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
     • Refusal of smoking: Smoking worsens the blood supply to the joints and slows down the recovery processes.
   • Drug therapy:
     • Anesthetic drugs: Paracetamol and non -steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to relieve pain. Long-term use of NSAIDs can cause side effects from the gastrointestinal tract and cardiovascular system.
     • Chondroprotectors: Chondroprotectors, such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, are drugs that are believed to contribute to the restoration of cartilage. The effectiveness of chondroprotectors remains the subject of discussions.
     • Hyaluronic acid: Injections of hyaluronic acid into the joint can help improve the lubricating properties of synovial fluid and reduce pain.
     • Corticosteroids: Injections of corticosteroids in the joint can be used to reduce inflammation and pain. Corticosteroids have a strong anti -inflammatory effect, but their prolonged use can cause side effects.
   • Physiotherapy:
     • Exercises for strengthening muscles: Exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the joints help improve the stability of the joint and reduce the load on the cartilage.
     • Exercises to increase the range of movements: Exercises to increase the range of movements help improve the mobility of the joint and reduce stiffness.
     • Massage: Massage can help improve muscle blood supply and reduce pain.
     • Electrotherapy: Electrotherapy can be used to reduce pain and inflammation.
     • Ultrasound therapy: Ultrasound therapy can be used to improve blood supply and reduce pain.
   • Orthes: Orthes (bandages, knee pads, insoles) can be used to support the joint and reduce the load on the cartilage.

2. Surgical treatment: Surgical treatment is considered in cases where conservative treatment is ineffective.

   • Arthroscopy: Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows the surgeon to examine the inside of the joint using an arthroscope (a thin tube with a camera). During arthroscopy, the surgeon can remove damaged tissues, restore cartilage or ligaments.
   • Actoprosthetics of the joint (joint replacement): The joint -prophetic acting is a surgical procedure in which the damaged joint is replaced by artificial. The joint endopusthesis is usually performed with severe osteoarthritis, when conservative treatment is ineffective.

VI. Cryst prevention in joints and age -related changes

1. Healthy lifestyle:

   • Maintaining normal weight: Maintaining normal weight helps to reduce the load on the joints.
   • Regular physical exercises: Regular physical exercises help strengthen the muscles surrounding the joints, and improve the blood supply to the cartilage.
   • Proper nutrition: Balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, is necessary for joint health.
   • Refusal of smoking: Smoking worsens the blood supply to the joints and slows down the recovery processes.
   • Alcohol use restriction: Alcohol abuse can negatively affect the condition of bones and cartilage.

2. Correct technique for performing exercises: When performing physical exercises, it is important to observe the right technique in order to avoid joint injuries.

3. Using protective equipment: When playing sports, especially contact views, it is recommended to use protective equipment (for example, knee pads, slabs) to reduce the risk of joint injuries.

4. Timely seeking a doctor: If pain, edema or movement restrictions in the joint, it is necessary to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment in a timely manner.

5. Regular medical examinations: Regular medical examinations will help identify joint diseases in the early stages.

6. Joints for joint health (on the recommendation of a doctor): Some additives, such as glucosamine, chondroitin, collagen and omega-3 fatty acids, can contribute to joint health. However, before their use, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

7. Moster control: Proper posture helps to evenly distribute the load on the joints and prevent their overload.

8. Avoiding hypothermia: Hypothermia can contribute to the development of inflammatory processes in the joints.

9. Stretching and warm -up: Before performing physical exercises, it is necessary to stretch and warm -up to prepare the joints for the load.

10. Ergonomics of the workplace: The organization of the workplace, taking into account the principles of ergonomics, helps to prevent joint overload and the development of occupational diseases.

VII. Cryst in joints in children and adolescents

A crunch in the joints in children and adolescents is often found and, as a rule, is not a sign of a serious disease. In most cases, it is associated with the physiological features of the development of joints and ligaments. However, in some cases, a crunch may indicate the presence of pathology.

1. The reasons for the crunch in children and adolescents:

   • Hypermors of joints: Hypermors of joints is a condition in which the joints have increased mobility. This condition is often found in children and adolescents and can cause crunch in the joints.
   • The discrepancy between the growth rates of bones and ligaments: During the period of active growth, the bones of the ligament can lag behind in growth, which leads to instability of the joint and crunch.
   • Increased elasticity of ligaments: Blues in children and adolescents are more elastic than in adults, which can lead to crunch when moving.
   • Joint injuries: Joint injuries, such as ligaments and dislocations, can cause crunch.
   • Congenital joint diseases: In rare cases, a crunch in the joints may be a sign of congenital diseases, such as hip dysplasia.
   • Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis: Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints in children. Cryst in the joints can be one of the symptoms of this disease.

2. When to see a doctor:

   • If the crunch is accompanied by pain, swelling or restriction of movement.
   • If a crunch arose after an injury.
   • If the crunch appears suddenly and does not pass.
   • If the child has other symptoms, such as fever, weakness or loss of appetite.

3. Diagnostics and treatment:

   • Diagnosis of crunch in the joints in children and adolescents usually includes a physical examination and collection of an anamnesis. In some cases, additional studies may be required, such as radiography or MRI.
   • Treatment of crunch in the joints in children and adolescents depends on the cause. In most cases, the treatment is aimed at relieving pain and improving the function of the joint. Physiotherapy, exercises for strengthening muscles and wearing orthosis can be recommended. In rare cases, surgical treatment may be required.

VIII. Alternative methods for treating crunch in the joints

1. Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a method of traditional Chinese medicine, which consists in introducing thin needles into certain points on the body. It is believed that acupuncture helps reduce pain and inflammation.

2. Manual therapy and osteopathy: Manual therapy and osteopathy are treatment methods that are aimed at restoring the normal mobility of joints and muscles.

3. Therapeutic massage: Therapeutic massage helps to improve the blood supply to the muscles and reduce pain.

4. Yoga and Pilates: Yoga and Pilates are exercises that help strengthen muscles, improve flexibility and coordination of movements.

5. Tai-you: Tai-chi is Chinese martial art, which combines slow, smooth movements and deep breath. Tai-chi helps to improve balance, coordination and flexibility.

6. Herbal products and additives: Some herbal products and additives, such as turmeric, ginger and bosvel, have anti -inflammatory properties and can help reduce joint pain. However, before their use, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

IX. Conclusion: Life with a crunch in the joints

Cryst in the joints is a common phenomenon that can be caused by various reasons. In most cases, it is not a sign of a serious disease and does not require treatment. However, if the crunch is accompanied by pain, swelling or restriction of movement, you must consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Timely diagnosis and adequate treatment will help maintain joint health and improve the quality of life. It is important to remember that a healthy lifestyle, including maintaining normal weight, regular physical exercises and proper nutrition, plays an important role in the prevention of joint diseases and maintaining their health throughout life.