Changes in the Knees
You may hear a cracking or grating sound when you walk or bend your knee. It may be difficult to bend your knee. Pain may be present. If you are an overweight female, you have a higher risk than other people for developing knee deformities due to osteoarthritis. Another type of knee deformity may occur in young people. This usually affects the knee cap.
OA of the Spine
Deformities of the vertebrae may produce local and generalized symptoms. Localized pain and stiffness are the most common symptoms. The discs, which provide a cushion between each vertebra, may thin, dry out, and erode.
If this occurs, you may experience muscle or nerve pain which may radiate to other parts of your body. Bone spurs may grow and cause deformity and pain.
Your vertebrae form a protective column which surrounds your spinal cord. Deformities may narrow the passageway for the spinal cord to travel through. As are result, nerve and blood vessel damage may arise. You may develop dizziness, have trouble walking, experience balance problems, or arthritis headaches. The bones in your spine may fuse together, limiting your range of motion.
Osteoarthritis of the spine may become very debilitating, painful, and severely decrease your quality of life.
Treatment of Joint Deformities
Treatments are geared toward maintaining joint health, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life. It is usually necessary to uses several treatment modalities when preventing or treating deformed joints. Here are some of the most common options.
- Medications are used to reduce inflammation and pain. Oral and topical medications are beneficial. Injections into affected joints may provide pain relief and relieve inflammation. . Hormonal therapies may be beneficial.
- Surgery may be needed if joints become extensively deformed.
- A balanced regiment of rest and gentile exercises may be helpful for relieving discomfort and maintaining joint mobility.
- Application of warm or hot packs may feel good.
- Assistive devices such, as splints, or walkers may increase independence and improve comfort levels.
- Stress management techniques can help you to cope with the challenges of living with a chronic condition.
- Surgical techniques are becoming more refined and effective.
- Herbal, vitamin, mineral, and other supplements can provide your body with the nutrients needed to maintain joint health.
- Weight management can be very helpful.
- Eat a diet which reduces inflammation.
- Physical therapy, acupuncture, and acupressure may relieve discomfort.
To minimize pain and debility caused by deformed joints, seek treatment early. Care for your joints throughout your life.
