Everything you need to know about knee health.

Which Joints Are Most Commonly Affected?

In degenerative arthritis, the most commonly affected joints are those that bear weight, such as the knees, hip joints, and lumbar spine segment. However, any joint can be affected. Specific changes occur in the hands, particularly in the distal phalanges of the fingers, leading to painless bony nodules that are easily noticeable around the fingertips.

What Are the Symptoms of Arthritis?

The most common symptom is pain, especially during movement, which improves or even completely disappears at rest. A short-lived morning stiffness is also characteristic. Over time, the patient develops joint deformities that become visibly noticeable. Joint effusion is also common, leading to swelling. The range of motion in the joint decreases, making movement and even performing daily minimal tasks difficult for the patient.

Who Is at Risk for Arthritis?

Over time, everyone's joints wear out. However, excess weight and excessive physical strain accelerate this process. Joints that have already been damaged due to trauma or other inflammatory joint conditions wear out more quickly. Endocrine diseases, such as thyroid disorders, diabetes, and diseases of the adrenal and pituitary glands, also accelerate joint wear. Additionally, reduced bone mineralization, or osteoporosis, is a significant contributing factor to joint degeneration.

How Is Arthritis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Required tests include X-rays, laboratory tests, ultrasound of the joints, and sometimes magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In some cases, joint fluid drainage and analysis may be necessary.

What Is the Treatment Process?

Treatment includes local remedies (ointments, various applications), medications, intra-articular injections, physiotherapy, and therapeutic exercises.

Is Surgical Treatment an Option?

Surgical treatment plays an important role in arthritis management, particularly joint replacement (endoprosthesis). Surgery is typically considered when the joint is severely damaged, and conservative treatment is ineffective. However, in certain cases, surgical intervention may be recommended at an earlier stage. In addition to joint replacement, minimally invasive procedures such as arthroscopy are available. Arthroscopy allows both diagnosis and treatment, such as joint "repair," which may be sufficient to avoid the need for joint replacement. The treatment strategy and sequence are determined individually by the attending physician.

Lifestyle Changes

Managing acute inflammation and pain is crucial in arthritis. As soon as possible, the patient should become physically active, with moderate activity levels gradually increasing over time. Weight control is essential, as excess weight worsens the condition. Even losing a few kilograms can significantly improve symptoms when combined with appropriate treatment.

Rheumatologist Marika Toidze discusses in the blog.