Subchondral sclerosis of articular surfaces up to 2 3 st. Subchondral sclerosis of the hip joint. Causes due to external factors

Bone growths of the bodies or processes of the vertebrae are called osteophytes. They have the form of tubercles, hooks, spikes, cause compression of the nerve roots and vertebral vessels, and lead to impaired motor activity in the spinal column. The disease often occurs in patients over 60 years of age as a result of natural involutional changes in bone tissue. In recent years, the pathological process has a tendency to "rejuvenate" - osteophytes of the spine are diagnosed in patients of working age (40-50 years).

The appearance of bone processes of the vertebrae is not a separate nosological unit, but refers to the radiological sign of degenerative processes of the spinal column.

Classification of osteophytes

Bone outgrowths of the spine can be localized in one of its departments, be asymptomatic or cause clinical manifestations, depending on the damage to one or another anatomical structure of the vertebra, and occur due to various reasons.

By localization, osteophytes of the spine are divided into the following types:

• anterior - affect the anterior parts of the vertebral bodies, are often formed in the thoracic spine, rarely cause pain and compression of the neurovascular bundles;
• posterior - located on the posterior surfaces of the vertebral bodies, affecting mainly the cervical spine, causing intense pain as a result of compression of the nerve roots and vertebral arteries;
• anterolateral - located in areas with the greatest pressure and degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs, have the shape of a "beak" and a horizontal direction, can affect several vertebrae and grow together.
• posterolateral - occur in the cervical spine, directed towards the spinal canal, can compress the spinal cord.

Depending on the cause of the pathological process, osteophytes are:

• post-traumatic - appear after fractures of the bodies or processes of the vertebrae, cracks in the periosteum, resulting in the formation of excessive growth of the callus;
• degenerative-dystrophic - are the result of deforming spondylosis, osteochondrosis, which are characterized by a violation of metabolic processes in the vertebrae and intervertebral discs;
• periosteal - develop near joints subject to intense physical overload and inflammatory processes;
• massive - are marginal bone growths in the form of a "visor", which appear as a result of malignant neoplasms of the spinal column or metastases from the mammary and prostate glands;
• endocrine and neurogenic - are formed against the background of hormonal imbalance in the body and severe damage to the nervous system.

Osteophytes are prone to slow progression and cause persistent organic and functional disorders of the affected vertebrae.

Clinical picture

Osteophytes are asymptomatic for a long time and can be detected in the diagnosis of other diseases. Bone formations located in different parts of the spinal column cause symptoms of varying severity and differ in possible complications.

Osteophytes of the cervical spine

The spinal column in the cervical region has great mobility, carrying out turns and tilts of the head. It is characterized by the fragility of the vertebrae and narrow intervertebral fissures, which contributes to the vulnerability of the cartilage tissue in this section. In the neck area, there are neurovascular bundles that feed the brain and innervate the underlying areas of the body.

With the development of the pathological process, symptoms appear in the early stages of the development of the disease as a result of compression of the nerve roots and vascular highways. The clinical picture is characterized by headaches in the occipital region, dizziness, impaired visual acuity, tingling and weakness in the upper limbs, ringing in the ears, limited neck mobility. Intense pain syndrome with nausea and vomiting indicates a sharp increase in intracranial pressure.

Osteophytes of the thoracic spine

The thoracic part of the spinal column is the least mobile; therefore, bone growths in this section cause clinical manifestations quite late. Sometimes the first symptoms of the disease appear during the formation of complete immobilization of the affected vertebrae. Most often, anterior osteophytes are formed here, which do not cause compression (compression) of the neurovascular bundles and the spinal cord.

Osteophytes of the lumbar spine

The lumbar spine is characterized by moderate mobility, large vertebrae, a rich vascular and nervous network that nourishes and innervates the lower limbs and pelvic organs. With the development of bone growths in this area, dull pains in the lower back appear during prolonged walking and standing, the intensity of the pain syndrome decreases after rest. Unpleasant sensations can radiate (spread) to the leg, groin, along the spine. Sometimes there is numbness and a decrease in strength in the lower extremities, pelvic functions (urinary and fecal incontinence) are disturbed due to compression of the nerve roots.

The appearance of osteophytes occurs when the periosteum is irritated as a result of spinal injuries, metabolic disorders, inflammatory diseases of bone tissue, and neoplasms.

Predisposing factors are heredity, a sedentary lifestyle against the background of a high-calorie diet, malnutrition, flat feet, and a change in correct posture.

Diagnostics

At the first manifestations of osteophytes of the spine, it is necessary to contact a medical institution for a doctor's consultation and a comprehensive examination. The doctor collects an anamnesis (history) of the disease, finds out the patient's complaints, palpates the spine, checks neurological reflexes. With a manual examination of the spinal column, only large bone outgrowths in the form of solid formations on the vertebrae can be detected. To clarify the diagnosis, instrumental methods of examination are prescribed.

1. X-ray of the spine (RS) is an informative and affordable method for detecting osteophytes using X-rays, which is performed at the first stage of a diagnostic examination, bone growths look like additional formations of various sizes and shapes along the edges of the vertebrae.
2. Electroneurography (ENMG) - allows you to identify the conductivity of the nerve fiber and the degree of its organic damage in the area of ​​pathology.
3. Computed tomography (CT) is a study based on X-ray irradiation of the spine with computer data processing, which gives more accurate results.
4. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - detection of disorders in bone and soft tissues, compression of the neurovascular bundles and the spinal cord using radiomagnetic waves.

Thanks to the examination, the doctor establishes a diagnosis and prescribes conservative or surgical methods of therapy.

Medical tactics

Treatment of osteophytes of the spinal column must be started at the early stages of the development of the pathological process. It should be remembered that bone formations can be removed with the help of surgery, and conservative methods of therapy prevent the progression of the disease and improve the general condition. Therefore, the earlier treatment is started, the more favorable the prognosis for recovery, maintaining full-fledged motor activity and working capacity.

Conservative therapy includes:

• analgesics (tetralgin, tramal retard, renangan) - relieve pain, normalize sleep, reduce muscle spasm, improve overall well-being;
• NSAIDs (naproxen, voltaren, diclofenac) - have an anti-inflammatory effect, reduce tissue swelling in the spinal canal, cause an analgesic effect;
• means for the normalization of tissue trophism (nicotinic acid, B vitamins, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium) - improve metabolic processes in the vertebrae, the muscular frame of the back, nerve roots;
• local effect on the pathological focus with ointments, creams, gels (finalgon, diklak-gel, capsicam) - has a warming, irritating, analgesic effect, is used in parallel with tableted and injectable preparations;
• physiotherapy (UHT and HILT-therapy) - the effect on the spine of shock wave energy and laser, which improves cartilage regeneration and stops the process of osteophyte formation;
• massage and manual impact - improve blood circulation of spinal tissues, relax muscles, normalize metabolic processes in the affected areas of the spinal column;
• physiotherapy exercises (exercise therapy) - a gradual increase in dosed physical activity on the spine strengthens muscles, ligaments, joints, and normalizes motor activity.

With the ineffectiveness of conservative therapy, surgery is prescribed, in which osteophytes are removed and decompression of the neurovascular bundles is performed. This restores the mobility of the spine and reduces the intensity of the pain syndrome. The operation should be timely before the appearance of irreversible changes in the nervous tissue of the roots and spinal cord. Contraindications to surgical treatment may be severe diseases of the cardiovascular system, decompensated diabetes mellitus, hypertension of the 3rd degree of severity.

Osteophytes of the spinal column are signs of a chronic pathological process, they can cause changes in the sensitivity and motor activity of the limbs, impaired blood circulation in the brain, and functional insufficiency of the pelvic organs. To prevent the formation of bone growths, it is necessary to normalize nutrition, properly alternate physical activity and rest, play sports, and treat concomitant diseases in a timely manner. Such a preventive approach will prevent the development and progression of osteophytes, improve the prognosis of the disease, and maintain the health of the spinal column.

Osteophytes: features of development, varieties and methods of treatment

Osteophytes are pathological bone growths that are localized in the knee, heel bones, different parts of the spine and other areas of the musculoskeletal system.

In most cases, the pathology proceeds without pronounced symptoms, so they can only be detected after a series of diagnostic procedures.

To better understand what it is, how to treat, we present the following interesting facts about these formations:

1. Growths are able to be localized both on the surface of the bones and grow directly in the joint capsule.
2. Such formations are often called bone spurs. They can develop on bone tissues of absolutely any structure and type.
3. Bone growths that are already fully formed usually have a spike-like shape. Less commonly, they look like an oblong awl.
4. Osteophytes are formations that can develop both after direct bone damage and occur against the background of severe chronic diseases (diabetes mellitus, etc.).
5. Where do they come from? Depends on the presence of specific comorbidities in a person. The causes of occurrence in most cases are internal (associated with impaired body functions).
6. These formations can be both multiple and single. This is determined by the root cause of the disease and its neglect.

The code for ICD 10 (International Classification of Diseases) is M25.7.

General symptoms and characteristic signs

Typical symptoms:

• soreness; may be blunt, pressing or stabbing;
• impaired mobility of a limb or back, which will develop gradually - over several weeks or even months;
• deformation;
• edema.

At the very beginning of the development of pathology, a person does not feel pain, so he is in no hurry to consult a doctor. Only as the disease progresses, when a pronounced degenerative process and cartilage destruction are observed, the patient will experience the first discomfort.

The patient feels pain of a stabbing or aching nature, which will become even more aggravated when osteophytes squeeze the nerve endings. Pain may occur during movement. Less commonly, it occurs when coughing or sneezing.

Pain during the development of pathology often gives to neighboring joints, which complicates the understanding of symptoms and the diagnosis of the disease. If the growths are localized in the spine, secondary symptoms develop in the form of headache, dizziness, blurred vision, tinnitus, etc. All this happens due to squeezing of blood vessels by bone growths.

When osteophytes grow to a sufficiently large size, there is a violation of joint mobility due to blocking of articular movements by bone formations.

Due to the thickening of the joint capsule, contracture is observed. The patient can no longer move normally, especially if osteophytes develop in the joints of the legs.

With advanced disease (at the third stage of osteoarthritis), a person develops joint deformity due to a pronounced increase in osteophytes, which take on the load of the joint itself. There is a total destruction of the cartilage.

Additional signs:

• edema;
• skin redness;
• gait disturbance, lameness (with damage to the knees, femur, feet).

Diagnostics

Before treating a pathology, it is important to identify the pathology, to find its root cause and the degree of neglect. The diagnosis is based on the patient's complaints and a doctor's examination; examinations are shown to confirm the disease:

1. Ultrasound diagnostics to assess the condition of the soft tissues of the joint and the presence of fluid.
2. Laboratory studies: general clinical blood and urine tests, blood for sugar levels, hormonal levels, cholesterol and biochemistry.
3. Radiography. When outgrowths are detected, this diagnostic measure is mandatory, because on the x-ray you can see the exact localization, size of bone outgrowths, type and degree of damage. Large growths in shape are very similar to bird beaks.
4. CT for the study of soft tissues.
5. MRI is rarely used to detect osteophytes. It is prescribed for difficult diagnosis of the disease, when the doctor needs additional confirmation of the condition of the tissues and bones of the joint.

Sometimes the attending physician prescribes arthroscopy.

Treatment of osteophytes

Traditional therapies:

1. Drug treatment: antibiotics, corticosteroids, other groups of drugs. Not all medicines dissolve osteophytes, so you need to strictly follow medical prescriptions.
2. Surgical intervention (removal of growths surgically).
3. Physiotherapy.

Before destroying the growths and getting rid of them completely, it is important to choose the right course of therapy: the final outcome of the disease will depend on it. The attending physician should be engaged in the selection of a treatment plan.

Let's consider each method of treatment and clinical recommendations in more detail.

The effectiveness of folk remedies

Traditional medicine recipes will help slow down the development of pathology, normalize well-being:

1. Take three spoons of hawthorn and pour 200 ml of boiling water. Insist, take before meals.
2. Spoon elderberry pour 300 ml of boiling water. Boil for ten minutes, strain, drink a third of a glass twice a day.
3. Take a warm bath, apply kombucha or a bandage soaked in its infusion to the sore joint. Wrap the limb with a film and a scarf. Leave overnight. The remedy helps relieve pain.
4. Grind and mix 1 leaf of burdock and 10 plantain leaves, steam the ingredients in a water bath. Attach to the joint, fixing with a film and a scarf (or a warm blanket).
5. Mix a spoon of lilac color and 150 ml of vodka. Insist for a week. Strain, apply for rubbing the joints.
6. Take three spoons of cinquefoil and the same amount of chamomile. Pour 0.5 liters of water. Bring to a boil, strain, cool. Take a spoonful twice a day.
7. Prepare 100 ml of olive oil and add 10 drops of mata, eucalyptus and tea tree oils to it. Use for rubbing.

More

Taking oral folk remedies for osteophytes is contraindicated in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and pregnancy. As for topical prescriptions, they should not be used for open wounds, purulent lesions, active infections, or recent surgeries. Such mixtures are not used for individual intolerance to the ingredients.

It is completely impossible to stop the growth of osteophytes with folk remedies, however, these recipes alleviate the condition of a person, reduce inflammation and pain. To prevent such drugs from having the opposite effect, you should consult with your doctor before using them.

In advanced cases, pills or surgery (removal of growths with a laser) are prescribed.

beak osteophytes

The main reason for the formation of beak-shaped osteophytes in the spine is the progression of spondylosis. Pathological growths are localized in the anterior region of the vertebrae.

Due to the uneven oblong shape in the form of staples (along the anterior contours of th8 th9), during the initial diagnosis, the doctor may think that this is cancer.

You can get rid of coracoid growths of the spine with the help of surgery or drug therapy. Good results are shown by physiotherapy treatment.

What is the difference between osteophytes and spondylarthrosis? Both diseases are inextricably linked: arthrosis develops primarily, which leads to inflammation and destruction of the cartilage of the joints. Osteophytes arise as a complication of the disease.

Spinal osteophytes

Usually they are caused by deforming spondylosis, which provokes complications. Before you get rid of them, remove growths, you should understand what they are.

Osteophytes in the spine look like processes. They are characterized by the degeneration of the ligaments of the spine into a bone structure, a sharp limitation of the mobility of the back.

Before treatment, you need to go through all the necessary diagnostic procedures.

Traditional treatment is medical and surgical. Therapy with folk remedies and physiotherapy can be practiced.

Where are osteophytes treated? In private or public departments of surgery, orthopedics and rheumatology.

Treatment of the lumbar spine

Osteophytes in the lumbar region are accompanied by the following symptoms:

• violation of sexual function;
• malfunctions of the intestines and bladder;
• numbness of the limbs;
• dull pain in the lower back, radiating to the leg.

Unlike cervical or chest growths, formations in the lumbar region are rarely calcites, that is, they accumulate calcium salts in themselves.

Lumbar growths (anterior, coracoid, etc.) provoke severe complications, so treatment should be approached as seriously as possible.

To alleviate the condition with growths in the lower back, physiotherapy is often used - a complex of treatment methods using different types of exposure.

The most effective physiotherapy:

Physiotherapy is not for everyone. Direct contraindications:

• oncological pathologies;
• hypertension;
• pregnancy and lactation;
• acute heart or liver failure;
• recent surgery;
• heavy bleeding;
• atherosclerosis;
• exacerbation of allergies or infectious diseases.

marginal growths

Marginal bone osteophytes are most often detected in patients. The pathology of the spine is accompanied by the growth of bone tissue on the body of the vertebrae. Outwardly, they look like spikes or tubercles, are characterized by large sizes and rapid growth, are posterior, anterior or lateral (based on the specific location).

In addition to spondylosis, they can be caused by subchondral sclerosis, oncological pathologies of the bones or the mammary gland. Sometimes they develop against the background of benign tumors.

Frequent signs of marginal osteophytes of the spine and other articular surfaces:

• headache;
• attention disorder;
• decreased vision;
• tinnitus;
• pain when walking (with localization of growths in the knee joint or on the heel of a child);
• sleep disturbance;
• radiating pain;
• heart pain (with small growths in the cervical or chest).

Treatment depends on the localization and neglect of the disease. Doctors even take into account the size of the growth (greater than 06 mm or not).

Formations of the knee joint

Osteophytes in the knee occur after an injury or infection. Typical symptoms:

1. Strong crunch.
2. Weakness.
3. Impaired mobility of the knee.
4. Pain - long, aching.
5. Deterioration of general well-being.

How to treat and how to remove osteophytes of the knee, the doctor decides.

In the initial stages, bone growths lend themselves well to drug therapy and treatment with folk remedies; in a neglected state, surgical removal of osteophytes or total joint replacement may be required.

Endoprosthetics is the installation of an artificial implant in place of the affected bones.

It is necessary to start treatment of osteophytes of the knee immediately after the detection of the disease, otherwise the disease will begin to progress, which threatens with a complete loss of the ability to move without crutches.

Osteophytes in the cervical region

Osteophytes in the cervical region can go unnoticed for a long time and manifest themselves only in the form of a crunch and pain in the head.

It is with this localization that they are most dangerous, since in the absence of timely therapy, they squeeze important blood vessels. This threatens with a stroke and disorders in the central nervous system.

Treatment of osteophytes in the cervical region often requires the use of analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Calcaneal spines

Osteophytes on the heel (according to MBC 10, the disease has the number M25) develop as a result of a violation of calcium metabolism or due to inflammatory processes in the foot. Heel growths are diagnosed in 50% of people with severe diseases of the spine or joints.

Symptoms and treatment of osteophytes on the heel are determined by the degree of neglect of the pathology and its root cause. Therapy for such patients is only complex.

If osteophytes do not prevent a person from walking, do not cause severe pain, folk remedies can be used to alleviate the condition.

With large osteophytes affecting the bone and soft tissues, surgical treatment is indicated (can be practiced in Israel and other countries). However, surgical treatment is very painful and can not always completely get rid of the pathology.

Osteophytes of the vertebral bodies: what is it

Anterior or posterior osteophytes of the spine are formations that occur when bone tissue grows directly along the vertebrae themselves; may have a different shape and size and look like spikes, humps, etc.

The main causes of bone growths on the vertebrae:

1. Inflammatory processes that led to osteomyelitis. This disease gradually provokes a pronounced lesion of all bone structures.

• Osteomyelitis can occur as a result of damage to the body by tuberculosis or dangerous staphylococcal bacteria. The mechanism of its development is simple: in adult patients, it usually occurs against the background of an open bone fracture. Bacteria enter the wound, which contribute to the onset of a long-term inflammatory (often purulent) process.
• If the fracture is linear, the inflammation will be limited to the affected area only. If the damage is comminuted, the infection will spread to the entire area of ​​​​the bone - this creates all the conditions for the final formation of bone growths.

1. Degenerative diseases of the bones. They develop due to excessive physical exertion, often detected in the elderly (due to physiological disorders).

• The most common cause is spondylosis and osteoarthritis. During deforming spondylosis, the patient's intervertebral discs are affected, and after a while osteophytes of the lumbar, thoracic or cervical regions are formed.
• Mechanism of development: during the defeat of the intervertebral discs, they are deformed. There is a degeneration of tissues and the appearance of pathological growths.
• The second common degenerative bone disease is osteoarthritis. Pathology leads to extensive damage to the cartilage tissue of the joints. Such a disease can be caused by trauma, congenital defects in the structure of the joint, or an inflammatory process in history.
• At the very beginning of development, osteoarthritis affects only the fluid that nourishes the cartilage. As the pathology progresses, degenerative changes are also observed in the joint itself, which is why it can no longer withstand strong physical exertion.
• The formation of outgrowths in osteoarthritis is observed in the second stage of the disease, when the cartilage is completely destroyed.

1. Staying in one position for a long time (standing or sitting) when the joints are under heavy stress. This increases the pressure on the cartilage and provokes deformation.

• Destruction processes exceed tissue regeneration. The entire load is on the bone, which gives impetus to the development of osteophytes.

1. Oncological pathologies. Pathological growths occur in benign and malignant cancers.
2. Endocrine disruptions. Most often, acromegaly contributes to the development of osteophytes. The disease occurs due to an increase in the production of growth hormone. The root cause is the development of a benign tumor in the anterior region of the pituitary gland.
3. In a person with multiple small or large marginal osteophytes of the vertebrae, there is a pronounced curvature of the spine and an increase in body weight. Cartilage, due to the impact of loads, cannot cope with its tasks and is destroyed. If left untreated, the patient develops osteoarthritis, which leads to pathological growths.

Bones of the hip joint

Reasons for the formation of osteophytes of the hip joint:

• genetic predisposition;
• lack of physical activity;
• bone injury;
• excess weight;
• inflammatory degenerative pathologies (treatment will be the most difficult).

A common cause of osteophytes of such a joint is an advanced form of osteoarthritis.

At the initial stages, the size of osteophytes will not exceed 1-2 mm, however, the growths can grow up to 5 mm and acquire a pointed shape.

Before treating such formations, a person needs to identify the root cause of the pathology.

What are bone formations

Do bone formations disappear over time, is it worth treating them at all? Doctors advise starting medical therapy already when small osteophytes are detected: in the absence of timely measures taken, education will begin to affect larger areas of healthy bone, increase in size, and then it will be even more difficult to eliminate them.

By themselves (without treatment), osteophytes cannot resolve: they are not soft tissues, especially if they are large.

Foot changes

Osteophytes of the foot are localized on the calcaneus. This condition is caused by a heel spur. Less commonly, such formations are located in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe fingers.

Symptoms of osteophytes of the ankle joint: deformity, pain while walking.

In addition to pill therapy, laser removal of osteophytes and surgery, they can be treated with special fixatives and insoles. Taping is often used (the application of tapes to secure the ligamentous apparatus), the use of night orthoses.

Shoulder osteophytes

Osteophytes of the shoulder joint occur due to a previous injury or due to the progression of degenerative lesions of the joints of the hands. Formations can be localized both in one and immediately in both shoulder joints of a person.

It is much easier to prevent the development of osteophytes than to remove them later with a laser or other methods. To do this, it is important to follow the recommendations of experts:

1. Give up bad habits: smoking, drinking alcohol.
2. Protect yourself from injuries and bruises of the joints (hands, elbow joint, etc.).
3. Timely treat diseases that cause the development of osteophytes. It is especially important to eliminate hormonal disruptions in the body, kidney problems, and various endocrine disorders in time.
4. Annually undergo a preventive examination by a doctor and take tests, even if there is no significant deterioration in the condition.
5. When the first signs of osteophytes appear (stiffness in the joint, pain), consult a doctor as soon as possible and conduct a diagnosis.
6. Eat a healthy and well-balanced diet.
7. Stop infectious or inflammatory processes in the body.
8. Maintain the stability of chronic pathologies.
9. Use protective pads on the joints when doing dangerous sports.
10. When working at a computer for a long time, you need to sit upright and avoid incorrect position of the joints, which can worsen the condition of the ischium.
11. Do physical exercise daily. It can be regular exercises or gymnastics. Also great for yoga, running, swimming, cycling.
12. Control body weight, prevent obesity.

Medical therapy

What dissolves osteophytes, what drug can completely destroy these formations? To get rid of osteophytes, you need to undergo complex drug treatment using several drugs.

Traditional course:

1. Anti-inflammatory drugs for pain relief (NSAIDs) - eliminate swelling, inflammation, reduce soreness. The best are Diclofenac, Flexen, Ketoprofen, Indomethacin.
2. Chondroprotectors - improve metabolism and contribute to the restoration of the articular surface. For this purpose, drugs Chondroitin, Glucosamine and Rumalon can be prescribed.
3. Analgesics - for pain (Analgin, No-shpa).
4. Muscle relaxants - prescribed to relax the muscles.
5. Trental is used to improve blood circulation.
6. Vitamin remedies. Vitamins of group B are especially useful.

If the patient suffers from obesity, during therapy, you need to switch to dietary nutrition in order to accelerate progress from treatment.

Surgical treatment

Surgical treatment for osteophytes is used only in advanced cases, when drug therapy is not effective.

Indications for surgery:

• complete loss of motor functions of the joint;
• narrowing of the spinal canal;
• compression of the spinal cord and nerve roots.

With bone growths in the spine, decompression surgery is used, during which the affected vertebrae are removed.

Joint treatment More >>

If osteophytes have affected the joint of the limb (knee or hip joint), joint arthroplasty is performed under general anesthesia. The diseased joint is removed, and a metal analogue is installed in its place.

The results of arthroplasty in most cases are positive: doctors manage to fully restore mobility in the joint. A couple of months after surgery, the patient can move again without crutches.

The disadvantage of this intervention is the risk of complications:

1. Bleeding.
2. Infectious injury.
3. development of necrosis.
4. Damage to nerve fibers with impaired sensitivity or (in more severe cases) paralysis of the limb.
5. Strong pains.

Other disadvantages of the operation are also significant - harmful anesthesia and antibiotics in the postoperative period.

Contraindications for surgery:

• severe heart disease during an exacerbation;
• diseases of the respiratory system;
• thrombophlebitis;
• HIV infection;
• infectious processes in the diseased joint.

Osteophytes: the causes of the formation of bone growths and ways to get rid of them

Osteophytes - growth of bone tissue. Often this disease is asymptomatic. You can find it after x-ray studies.

Osteophytes can form in the cavity of the joints of the extremities, on the surfaces of the arms and legs, as well as in any part of the spinal column. As a rule, they are formed after a person has received injuries, ending in bone fractures. Sometimes the chronic course of such a disease, occurring in the bone tissue, stimulates an increase in bone growths.

General information

Osteophytes: what is it? These are pathological growths on the bones that are not an independent disease. Usually appear in the form of a compensatory reaction of the body to a violation of the periosteum or bone tissue. They have a variety of shapes and sizes.

The presence of osteophytes impairs the quality of human life, causes pain, but does not pose a danger to life. Therapy for osteophytes usually consists of pain relief. In cases where the disease contributes to a decrease in performance (for example, with a heel spur), doctors recommend resorting to surgical intervention.

How to get rid of osteophytes? They can only be removed surgically, but they can reappear. For this reason, conservative therapy helps to cope only with the symptoms of the disease, but the osteophytes themselves and their growth are not significantly affected.

Reasons for the appearance

The causes of osteophytes can be very different. For example:

• trauma;
• tumors;
• inflammation;
• metastases;
• endocrine disorders;
• excessive physical activity.

Types of growths

The term "osteophyte" refers to a certain type of bone growth, which is provoked by a specific cause. Osteophytes differ in their location, structure and causal factor.

According to the cellular structure, there are such types of osteophytes:

• spongy;
• metaplastic;
• compact;
• cartilaginous.

Spongy are formed from the spongy substance that forms the articular surfaces. It also contains small bones. For example, vertebrae, wrists, ribs, etc. Usually, spongy varieties of osteophytes appear due to large stresses on the bones.

Metallic osteophytes appear when the cellular composition of bones is disturbed. Usually formed after injuries, fractures and other damage to the bone. In some cases, they may appear against the background of inflammatory processes or infections.

As for compact osteophytes, they are formed from the outer bone layer. The latter is well developed in the tibia, femur, ulna, radius bones, for this reason compact osteophytes appear on these bones. They are usually found on the feet and toes.

Cartilaginous osteophytes are found in the cavity of the joints, where the surface is covered with cartilage. When the latter is subjected to loads, it begins to thin, the bone grows, and osteophytes are formed.

Types of osteophytes that appear for a specific reason:

1. Degenerative-dystrophic osteophytes. They appear as a result of long-term inflammatory diseases of the joints (arthrosis, spondylosis).
2. Tumor - appear in the presence of metastases or malignant tumors, for example, with sarcoma, cancerous metastases, etc. The tumor damages the bone, as a result, regeneration begins, leading to the formation of osteophytes.
3. Traumatic osteophytes - appear when the bones are injured. Often found in the area of ​​fusion of displaced bone fragments.
4. Inflammatory. Appear in the presence of inflammatory lesions (osteomyelitis, brucellosis).

Localization of osteophytes

Most often, osteophytes are found in such places:

• foot;
• lap;
• shoulders;
• spine.

Foot. Osteophytes usually form on the calcaneus. The main reason for their appearance is heavy loads that injure the periosteum. In other words, the disease is called a heel spur.

Spine. A disease in which osteophytes form on the vertebrae is called spondylosis. Growths appear on the body of the spine and its processes. Sometimes they injure the ligaments, irritate the tissues, thus disrupting the metabolism and promoting the deposition of salts. Marginal osteophytes are another type of disease characterized by the growth of bone tissue on the spine. The growths resemble spikes or tubercles. Hence their other name is spiny osteophytes.

Osteophytes of the hip joint - are formed during excessive physical exertion. As they grow, they squeeze the tissues, destroying them and deforming the joint. The same thing happens with the formation of osteophytes of the ankle joint.

Symptoms

Symptoms of the appearance of bone growths depend on where the osteophytes are located. During growth, they usually do not cause any inconvenience at all. But, growing up, they begin to cause severe pain. Symptoms:

• during coughing, movement or in an uncomfortable position, a person experiences pain;
• ligaments ossify;
• mobility is limited;
• pain can appear even after small loads;
• by the end of the day, pain in the joints periodically appears;
• joints begin to deform.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of osteophytes is a fairly simple procedure, consisting of three stages:

How to get rid of osteophytes

Complex treatment

When osteophytes appear, it is forever. They don't dissolve on their own. The task of doctors is to make life easier for the patient and slow down the development of bone growths. But otherwise, the treatment of osteophytes is carried out in the same way as for other diseases of the spine. Complex therapy has several components:

Surgical intervention

If complex therapy does not help, then the disease is severe. In this case, surgical intervention is required. The doctor performs an operation during which bone growths are removed. But if the nerve endings were compressed for a very long time, then after surgery, the patient may experience neurological symptoms. This means that irreversible changes have already occurred in the fibers.

Treatment with folk remedies

Treatment of osteophytes with folk remedies has many ways to deal with bone growths. Or at least the recipes help get rid of the pain. Basically, these are decoctions and infusions of herbs.

1. Elder. To prepare an infusion from it, you need 1 tbsp. l. berries, which are poured with a glass of boiling water. Then heated in a water bath for a quarter of an hour. The infusion is cooled and filtered. Then half a cup is taken 2 to 3 times a day.
2. Hawthorn. For infusion, only flowers are taken from the plant. One handful is poured with three glasses of boiling water. Then infused for 30 minutes. After the infusion is cooled and taken in 3 tbsp. l. half an hour before meals.

Disease prevention

Treatment of an advanced disease is a long process. Therefore, it is best to prevent the disease. During sedentary work, if it is almost impossible to move, the body, back and neck are warmed up as often as possible. This can be done with sips or with short exercises.

Correct posture must be observed. The spine, even in a sitting position, should be straight, and the neck should not protrude forward. An excellent tool for the prevention of diseases of the spine and joints is massage. The daily diet must include foods rich in vitamins and useful trace elements. Excess weight should be avoided.

If osteophytes are found, you should immediately visit a doctor to make a diagnosis and begin treatment. If this is not done in a timely manner, then osteophytes can contribute to the formation of chronic sciatica. Self-medication is not recommended, as it will aggravate the situation.

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Subchondral sclerosis of the hip joint is a degenerative process in the head of the femur that develops with deforming arthrosis.

What is subchondral sclerosis?

Sclerosis is the replacement of any normally functioning tissue with connective tissue that cannot perform the necessary functions. In subchondral sclerosis, the pathological process occurs in the so-called endplate. It is located under the articular cartilage and is a peripheral section of the epiphysis - the head of the femur.
The development of subchondral sclerosis is provoked by dystrophic changes in cartilage: a decrease in its thickness, a decrease in elasticity, and the appearance of roughness. In this regard, the depreciation ability of the cartilaginous tissue is deteriorating, which is why the epiphysis, located under it, experiences heavy loads. This leads to a violation of calcium metabolism and a deterioration in blood circulation in bone tissue, as well as to subsequent necrosis of its sections. The dead osteocytes are replaced by actively dividing connective tissue cells.

Why is this condition dangerous?

Subchondral sclerosis is accompanied by the appearance of osteophytes - pathological growths on the surface of the damaged bone. Their size and number increase, which seriously limits the range of motion in the joint, up to contracture - its complete immobility.
In addition, the formation of "bone spurs" is accompanied by increased pain. This causes the person to spare the limb when walking.
As this pathological process progresses, it leads to deformation of the articular surfaces of the bones, which is fraught with destabilization of the joint, the development of subluxations, dislocations, and pathological fractures.
Violation of the mobility of the hip joint in the long term leads to destabilization of the spinal column when walking. This becomes a predisposing factor for the development of spinal curvature, which, in turn, is one of the causes of osteochondrosis.

What are the causes of subchondral sclerosis of the hip?

This condition is not considered an independent disease, it is a pathological process that develops most often with degenerative-dystrophic joint disease - arthrosis. Accordingly, the causes of subchondral sclerosis of the hip joint may be as follows:

• injuries that have not been properly treated (fractures of the pelvis or head of the femur, dislocations);
• metabolic disorders (for example, diabetes mellitus);
• endocrine diseases;
• infectious inflammation of the joint;
• rheumatoid arthritis;
• joint inflammation in systemic lupus erythematosus or psoriasis;
• dysplasia - a congenital pathological feature that leads to dysfunction of the joint;
• Perthes disease - aseptic (non-infectious) necrosis of the femoral head.

Particular attention should be paid to the presence of factors predisposing to the development of arthrosis and subchondral sclerosis. They are:

• elderly age;
• irrational nutrition;
• smoking;
• excess body weight;
• hypodynamia;
• heavy physical activity;
• systematic hypothermia.
• postmenopausal period;
• osteoporosis.

What are the signs of subchondral sclerosis?

Symptoms of such a pathological condition are signs of arthrosis of the hip joint (coxarthrosis), namely, its second and third stages, since it is at these stages of the disease that sclerosis begins and osteophytes are formed:

1. Characterized by pain in the joint, which can occur at night, when walking, standing for a long time and sitting.
2. There is stiffness, stiffness of the joint immediately after waking up, passing after some time.
3. Over time, the limitation of walking distance progresses, it becomes more and more difficult to overcome certain distances.
4. Lameness occurs, eventually leading to a pathological type of movement.
5. There is a need to use additional support - a cane or crutch.

Such symptoms indicate a long course of pathological processes and the presence of irreversible changes. Therefore, one should not wait for the onset of subchondral sclerosis, it is necessary to consult a doctor at the initial stage of the development of arthrosis, when unpleasant sensations regularly occur in the joint when walking, and a crunch is periodically heard.

How to diagnose subchondral sclerosis?

In order to detect changes, the doctor prescribes. With arthrosis, the pictures show:

• narrowing of the joint space;
• the presence of bone points of various sizes - osteophytes;
• thickening of the shadow under the endplate and in some areas of the femoral head (directly a sign of subchondral sclerosis);
• the appearance in the area of ​​​​the head of the bone oval enlightenment with clear contours - bone cysts.

At later stages, impression occurs - crushing of the end plate, which in the picture is manifested by a discrepancy between the articular surfaces of the bones to each other.
As an additional examination, ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging may be performed. These methods allow assessing the condition of the joint capsule, its ligaments, menisci (if we are talking about the pathology of the knee joint), surrounding soft tissues, clarifying the location and size of cysts and osteophytes, and assessing the degree of subchondral sclerosis.
To choose the most appropriate treatment tactics, it is important for the doctor to know what causes led to the development of arthrosis and sclerosis. To this end, he can prescribe various blood tests that will help identify inflammatory processes, metabolic and endocrine disorders, the presence of rheumatoid factor and signs of other conditions.

Treatment and prevention

Elimination of subchondral sclerosis occurs in the treatment of arthrosis.

If possible, the doctor tries to conduct etiotropic therapy, which is aimed at eliminating the root cause of the disease.

For this, various medications are used: antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids. In addition, chondroprotectors are used as a drug treatment, which contribute to the restoration of cartilage tissue.
Physiotherapeutic treatment plays an important role, it includes performing special exercises in water, massage, ultrasound therapy, warming up, stimulation with electric current. In addition, it is important to carefully dose the load on the joint. Excessive activity will lead to the progression of subchondral sclerosis, as well as physical inactivity, accompanied by atrophy of the muscles and ligamentous apparatus. Of great importance in the treatment of arthrosis is the correct implementation of physiotherapy exercises.
and subchondral sclerosis includes the elimination of predisposing factors. This means that it is necessary to give up bad habits, ensure that all the necessary nutrients enter the body, get rid of excess weight, and do physical education. Such measures will help maintain the normal nutrition of the cartilage tissue and relieve part of the load from the joint by training the muscles.

Separately, it should be said about the timely detection and elimination of congenital hip dysplasia in children. It is possible to eliminate such a feature without any consequences conservatively, but only on condition that treatment is started at an early age. As the child grows older, irreversible changes occur in the joint, which in the future become the cause of arthrosis and subchondral sclerosis. It is usually possible to eliminate dysplasia with late diagnosis only promptly. Consultation with a pediatrician is required if a child has a clear asymmetry of skin folds (there are more folds on one leg) and shortening of one leg.

Subchondral sclerosis of the hip joint is a degenerative-dystrophic disease that affects the articular surfaces. The pathological process causes damage to healthy cartilage tissue, transforming it into a connective tissue that cannot cope with the necessary functions. A similar process can occur in the spinal column (affecting the endplates of the vertebral bodies), and in any other joint.

Etiology

HJ sclerosis of a subchondral nature in most cases occurs against the background of osteochondrosis and osteoarthrosis. The following reasons lead to the development of pathology:

• excessive or insufficient physical activity;
• traumatic injuries of the joints;
• genetic predisposition to growth, increased bone density;
• disturbed metabolism;
• infectious, inflammatory diseases localized in the area of ​​TBS;
• articular dysplasia;
• endocrine pathologies.

The surface of the joint under consideration is covered by a subchondral tissue structure, connected simultaneously with bone and cartilage. The bone area is replete with blood vessels, nerve endings and provides the cartilage with the necessary minerals.

Violation of the processes of blood circulation affecting this tissue leads to its deformation and pathological growth. As a result, the nutrition of the cartilage is disturbed, which leads to its destruction. This is the etiology of the development of subchondral sclerosis affecting the hip joint.

Classification and types

Medical specialists subdivide subchondral articular surface sclerosis into 2 main forms:

1. Primary - the disease occurs against the background of excessive, increased load on the hip joint area.
2. Secondary - pathology can develop due to existing damage to cartilage tissue structures.

Doctors qualify subchondral sclerosis according to the following stages of the development of the pathological process:

1. The first stage is characterized by the growth of bone tissue by marginal osteophytes forming in the area of ​​the joints.
2. On the second, the joint space narrows, specific growths form.
3. The third stage of sclerosis is characterized by a significant narrowing of the gap, an increase in bone growths, and a limitation of the motor activity of the joint.
4. At the fourth stage, there is a deformation of the roof of the acetabulum of the pelvic bone, the lack of the ability to fully flex and extend the joint.

The disease progresses quite quickly and can lead to complete immobilization of the hip joint affected by sclerosis.

Risk factors

Doctors identify the following disorders and conditions that greatly increase the likelihood of developing subchondral sclerosis:

• large and frequent loads on the joint (typical for professional athletes);
• overweight;
• autoimmune disorders;
• congenital vascular anomalies;
• hormonal disorders.

Increased stress on the hip joint due to pregnancy, age-related changes, hard work and other similar factors can lead to the development of sclerosis.

Symptoms of subchondral sclerosis

Doctors distinguish the following clinical manifestations of pathology:

• strong pain;
• impaired motor function.

Pain syndrome can occur in one of the limbs when trying to lean on a sore leg after a long state of rest.

knee joints

Sclerosis of the knee is manifested by the presence of the following symptoms:

• increased fatigue of the affected limb;
• a specific crackling sound in the joint during walking;
• uncomfortable, painful sensations when trying to bend the knee.

TBS

Sclerosis of this area is manifested by the following characteristic symptoms:

• painful sensations of a aching nature, localized in the hip joint and lumbar spine;
• there may be a pronounced pain syndrome, extending to the inguinal region;
• crunch and clicks during movements in the joint;
• limitation of joint mobility.

A sick person complains of severe pain in one or both limbs with a tendency to worsen at night, in cool, damp weather, as well as severe limitation of movement, impaired joint function.

Diagnostics

If a disease is suspected, patients are prescribed the following types of diagnostic studies:

• radiographic examination;
• computed and magnetic resonance imaging;
• laboratory blood tests;
• genetic test.

Comprehensive diagnostics makes it possible to determine the provoking factors, the stage of development and localization of subchondral sclerosis, and to develop the most effective therapeutic course for a particular clinical case.

Therapy Methods

Competent treatment should be complex systemic. Therapy of subchondral sclerosis is aimed at eliminating the provoking pathology, normalizing motor activity, and relieving painful symptoms.

Treatment of the underlying disease

Subchondral articular sclerosis, in fact, is an x-ray symptom of other pathologies. Therefore, in order to achieve positive, stable results, it is first necessary to treat the underlying disease. Depending on the diagnosis, the doctor prescribes to the patient a course of drug therapy, which includes anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibiotic, antihistamine, hormonal drugs, chondroprotectors.

All medicines are taken strictly according to the prescription of the attending physician, subject to the recommended dosage and duration of the therapeutic course.

In the most difficult clinical cases, surgery is required to restore lost joint functions. Specialists may recommend arthroscopy, surgical removal of bone growths, partial or complete prosthetics of the affected joint.

Treatment with folk remedies is allowed, but only as a constituent element of complex therapy after prior consultation with the doctor.

exercise therapy

Remedial gymnastics for joint sclerosis is an important element of treatment that contributes to the achievement of such results:

• restoration of lost functionality;
• normalization of blood circulation processes;
• stopping the processes of further articular deformity.

Exercises are selected by an exercise therapy specialist on an individual basis for each patient.

Manual therapy and physiotherapy

To improve the general condition, eliminate painful symptoms, patients suffering from subchondral joint sclerosis are shown the following physiotherapy:

• acupuncture;
• thermal effect;
• radiation and radio wave therapy;
• electrophoresis with the use of drugs;
• mud treatment that replenishes the deficiency of minerals in the joints.

Massages and manual therapy methods give a good therapeutic effect. They allow you to normalize the processes of blood circulation and microcirculation, eliminate pain and signs of inflammation, and even restore the affected cartilage tissue.

Complications

Joint sclerosis is a progressive pathology that, in the absence of timely medical intervention, leads to the formation of bone growths, severe pain, and impaired motor functions.

In advanced stages, pathology is fraught with the development of serious consequences:

• inflammatory processes;
• purulent complications;
• damage to blood vessels, tendons, muscles, subcutaneous tissue;
• necrosis.

A serious danger to the health and life of the patient is the development of purulent processes, in which pus, entering the bloodstream, penetrates into the region of other organs, causing serious illnesses, up to blood poisoning.

With incorrect treatment or lack thereof, the disease leads to limited movement and complete disability of the patient.

Prevention

Measures to prevent sclerosis of the hip and knee joints are to correct lifestyle, reasonable physical activity, proper, balanced nutrition. To reduce the potential risk, you need to monitor your posture, fight excess weight in a timely manner.

To avoid the adverse effects of subchondral sclerosis, it is recommended to consult a doctor in a timely manner. Complex therapy will eliminate painful symptoms, restore joint functions and avoid further development of the pathological process.

In medical terminology, the growth of bone tissue is called osteophytes. Very often they are detected quite by accident during x-ray studies. This happens because the growth process does not have any pronounced symptoms.

Places of localization of osteophytes are:

• Bone tissues of the feet and hands (the end sections of the bones are affected)
• Articular cavities of the extremities (upper or lower)
• Sections of the spinal column.

The second common name for osteophytes is bone spurs. They got this name because they have a pointed shape (in the form of a spike or needle).

What are the types of growths

Osteophyte is a pathological process that can have a single or multiple prevalence. Growths consist of the same elements as bone tissue.

The form of osteophytes can be in the form of thin teeth, or dense bumpy growths.

Osteophytes are usually divided into types depending on the type of bone tissue in which they arise. Let us consider in more detail 4 types of bone growths.

Bone compact type

The compact type of bone tissue occupies about 80% of the total mass of the human skeleton.

Most often, osteophytes of the compact type affect:

1. Metatarsal bones (found on the feet).
2. Phalanges of fingers (upper or lower limbs).
3. Tubular bones (growth begins at the end sections). The tubular bones include: ulna, radius, femur, humerus, tibia.

sponge type

This type of bone growth is derived from cancellous bone tissue.

The spongy substance is characterized by particular lightness, compared with the compact. It is not too dense, due to which we can talk about its relative fragility.

Such characteristics are explained by the special structure of spongy tissue. It consists of partitions and plates, which are formed in the form of cells.

Spongy substance can be found in the end parts of tubular bones, as well as in spongy bones. Spongy bones include: tarsus, ribs, vertebrae, sternum and wrist bones.

The occurrence of osteophytes can be localized in any parts of spongy bones. They are usually formed due to excessive loads or pressure on the bone tissue.

cartilaginous type

This group of growths occurs with pathological deformations of the cartilage tissue. In a healthy person, the surfaces of the joints are covered with cartilage in order to reduce the force of friction between the articulating bones.

If the cartilage tissue begins to thin, then increased pressure is exerted on the bones. The response of the bone tissue in this case is its growth. Thus, osteophytes of the cartilaginous type appear.

Osteophytes occur, as a rule, in fairly large joints, which account for the maximum pressure. And this is the hip and knee joints.

metaplastic type

If there is any shift in the quantitative ratio of these cells, the formation of osteophytes may develop.

Bone growths can also occur if inflammatory or infectious processes occur in the bone tissue.

Historians note that osteophytes have played a significant role in the evolutionary picture. Since their growth causes a restriction of the mobility of the bone tissue, then, accordingly, its destruction is significantly slowed down.

Accordingly, many historical remains that have survived to this day are well preserved due to such a pathological process as osteophytes.

Characteristics of the symptoms of the disease

As already noted in the early stages, the appearance of bone growths in no way makes itself felt to the patient.

Even at later stages, all symptoms are rather mild.

Symptoms characteristic of osteophytes include:

1. Decreased mobility of the joint.
2. The appearance of pain manifestations during mechanical movements of the joint.

How to make a diagnosis

In order to make a diagnosis, the attending physician to whom the patient applied will prescribe an X-ray examination of the areas for which complaints were received.

The patient may also be referred for an MRI examination. His results are more revealing. But it is worth noting that the data obtained from the X-ray image is quite enough to set the result.

In the late, advanced stages, bone growths can be palpated by palpation. But in order to accurately prescribe treatment, it is still necessary to undergo an X-ray examination.

Measures to prevent osteophytes

The control of physical stress on the joints and bones is also important in the prevention of osteophytes. Excessive, thoughtless loads can cause thinning of bone tissue, and as a result, the growth of osteophytes.

If the patient has received an open bone fracture, it is very important to avoid infection in order to prevent the appearance of osteophytes.

Methods of medical therapy

If the patient does not complain of symptoms of osteophytes, usually no treatment is required and is not carried out.

If the patient is tormented by acute pain and growths limit his mobility, then the following methods can be used to alleviate the patient's condition.

One of the radical surgical methods is arthroplasty. It is the complete removal of the damaged joint, after which it is replaced with a metal implant.

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Invisible danger

It is to such violations that physicians often refer various pathological formations in humans. They are able to bring severe pain and disable the patient, especially osteophytes of the vertebrae and large joints, related to such findings. The danger of these changes lies in their late detection in the final stages of the disease, and an adequate therapeutic effect is possible only with a minimal positive effect. A reasonable question may immediately arise: “Osteophytes - what is it?” Such a peculiar name was given to a separate group of diseases, which are based on the development of bone pathology according to the type of growths, determined mainly only with the help of additional examination methods.

Osteophytes - what is it?

Literally translated from Greek, this medical term means a bone sprout (osteon - bone, phyton - offspring, plant). The osteophytes themselves can look like spikes, teeth, protrusions or tubercles, the larger ones are called exostoses. At the heart of their structure, such formations have a spongy or compact bone structure. In other words, it can be said about osteophytes that it is such a dense neoplasm of the type of locally limited outgrowths due to a violation in the direction of excessive bone synthesis at the site of inflammation of its outer shell.

Triggering processes are considered to be traumatic effects or infectious agents, including those in the soft tissues surrounding the skeleton. A violation of calcium metabolism in the body is also considered as a cause. There are several main varieties of osteophytes in accordance with their etiological cause. Post-traumatic, degenerative-dystrophic, neurogenic processes underlie the start of the entire pathogenetic mechanism of the disease.

The prerequisites are laid from childhood ...

It should be noted that the whole complex of changes in the spine begins in early childhood, even from the moment when the baby begins to sit down and gradually move from a horizontal position to a vertical upright posture on two legs.

Spondylosis - protection from the destruction of time and disease

Similar mechanisms are observed in the development of bone oncology or metastases of breast or pancreatic cancer. Benign tumors also contribute to the disruption of the normal development of cartilage tissue, stimulating the growth of pathological bone neoplasms. It can be said about osteophytes of the spine that this is a kind of manifestation of the reaction of the body's defense to the destruction of the intervertebral disc. Medical science combines all this into one capacious term spondylosis.

In case of violation of the mechanical and dynamic parameters of any locomotor act produced by the human body, it is possible to involve large and small limb joints in the process. When the physiological norms of the motor process change, scoliosis can form, which occurs in almost every second modern inhabitant. However, you can meet not only the defeat of the vertebrae. Recently, such diagnoses as osteophytes of the hip joint, neck, knee, and calcaneus are not uncommon.

Predisposing factors

The intervertebral space, filled with cartilage, is normally able to provide the optimal ratio of numerous articular surfaces and their cushioning between themselves when walking. However, with disc pathology that develops with excessive or non-physiological stress, poor posture, prolonged sitting in a sitting position and similar conditions, leading, for example, to osteochondrosis, changes are observed in these already imperfect joints. Excess weight, flat feet, various metabolic disorders, injuries and heredity predispose to this.

As a result, the appearance of complete and incomplete dislocations, various inflammatory processes is characteristic, which is why, as a protective reaction, compaction and growth of bone tissue develops in the marginal areas of the articular surfaces of the vertebral bodies, including to increase the area of ​​​​their support on the surrounding tissues. The described changes are especially pronounced at an older age, after 50 years, when the processes of wear and tear of the body provoke the development of pathology not only in the structure of the skeleton, but also on the part of many organs and systems.

Symptoms of a neck injury

Any part of the spinal column can be involved in the pathological process.

Features of manifestations of bone growths in the lower back

Given the immobility in the joints of the thoracic vertebrae, the clinic of bone neoplasms of this localization is less bright and often goes unnoticed by the patient. Basically, anterior osteophytes are formed here.

Pain in the lower back, especially during exertion, a feeling of numbness and tingling in the limbs, as well as a violation of the normal functioning of the bladder and intestines, are more characteristic of lumbar spondylosis. Given the maximum pressure in this section of the back of the vertebrae on each other, due to the emerging pathology of the cartilage disc, anterolateral osteophytes are formed here. Their originality lies in the horizontal direction, unusual shapes and frequent orientation of adjacent growths towards each other (the so-called "kissing" compositions).

The most sensitive formations are localized along the dorsal surfaces of the vertebrae and are called posterior osteophytes. The pain syndrome is caused by compression of the nerve trunks passing nearby through the holes between the bone structures.

Which doctor should I contact?

As soon as there are unpleasant or painful sensations in the back or limbs, you should immediately seek medical help, and not self-medicate. The easiest way out is to come to an appointment with a local therapist who will advise or immediately appoint an examination by a neurologist or rheumatologist. If there is a vertebrologist in the clinic, with pain in the spine, you can go to his office on your own. In case of pathology in the arm or leg, it does not hurt to consult an orthopedic doctor. It is possible that there will be a need for an examination by a surgeon or a neurosurgeon. At the final stage of treatment, specialists in massage, physiotherapy exercises and physiotherapists will help.

How to confirm the presence of osteophytes?

It is possible to make a diagnosis to a competent specialist, especially when analyzing complaints and the history of the disease, already at the stage of palpation of both the osteophytes themselves, defined as dense, painless and motionless growths, and during a complete neurological examination.
If it is impossible to feel the pathological formations in detail, due to the physiological characteristics of the patient or the small size of the bone sprout, the doctor prescribes additional diagnostic methods. These include, as mentioned above, X-ray examination, computed or magnetic resonance imaging.

Thanks to a detailed study of bone pathology in the affected area using such modern high-tech examination methods, it is possible not only to make a correct and timely clinical diagnosis, but also to identify complications such as compression of the spinal cord and nerve roots, and also help prescribe the necessary adequate treatment in each specific case. case.

Frequent localization of pathology outside the spine

Osteophytes of the hip joint are a sign of such a pathology as deforming osteoarthritis with the development of a limitation in the amplitude of full movement in the acetabulum of this bone junction. In addition, the causes of the development of pathological disorders can be a history of hip fracture, diabetes mellitus, brucellosis, syphilis, osteomyelitis and other inflammatory processes due to a concomitant metabolic failure in the surrounding tissues.

Osteophyte of the calcaneus, or in the common people a spur, is capable of causing severe pain and is detected by X-ray examination in the form of an additional inclusion or spike-like process.

Periosteal tear is a more characteristic process in the development of osteophytes of large joints, for example, knee or elbow, with their complex injuries or dislocations. During the healing of the damaged area, the outer bone membrane thickens with the formation of hypertrophic structures. Therefore, in medical practice, it is now not uncommon to hear the diagnosis of arthrosis, which includes such a component as osteophytes of the knee joint.

Treatment without surgery

Modern medicine, depending on the indications and the stage of the process, has several approaches to this pathology in its arsenal of treatment. Conservative therapy offers to deal with such joint problems in their initial stage of development or mild forms with the help of medications. The main group includes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, for example, drugs "Nise", "Nimulid", "Ibuprofen", "Diclofenac" and similar medicinal substances. Their main effect develops due to the anti-inflammatory action, followed by a decrease in swelling and pain.

In addition, auxiliary agents containing vitamin B complexes, nicotinic acid, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, chondroprotectors, and vasodilators are prescribed. Topical application of ointments with a warming effect can relieve pain for a short time due to a distracting effect.

Osteophytes of the knee joint have their own characteristics, the treatment of which is somewhat different due to the possibility and frequent need for intra-articular injection of drugs.

Other effective treatments

Massage, reflexology, therapeutic exercises also have healing properties, improving microcirculation and elasticity of muscle fibers surrounding the altered bone frame. In the history of medicine, there are clinical observations indicating the reverse development and resorption of pathological structures of the vertebrae, including against the background of the onset of osteoporosis.

However, persistent excruciating pain, ineffectiveness of drug therapy or a severe degree of damage to the supporting system will orient the doctor in favor of prescribing surgical intervention to remove osteophytes and relieve pathological compression of the nerves. General diseases such as diabetes mellitus and severe cardiovascular pathology serve as contraindications for surgery.

Prevention is easier than cure

It should always be remembered that the operation performed will relieve a certain symptom only for a while, but a miraculous drug has not yet been invented for the disease as a whole. All this does not exclude the possibility of recurrence or the appearance in the future of new osteophytes with characteristic pathological changes and a clinical picture.

Therefore, in order to prevent the occurrence of such disorders, you should lead an active and healthy lifestyle. And this means eating right, sleeping in accordance with physiological requirements on a flat, hard surface with a small cushion under your head, constantly monitoring your posture and posture while sitting in a sitting position, and if you need to stay in one position for a long time, take regular breaks for performing gymnastic exercises for back health.

Only having learned in detail about the existence of such a disease as osteophytes, what it is, having considered their characteristic clinical manifestations, as well as modern diagnostic and therapeutic measures, will it be possible to prevent the occurrence of such a disease in time or to fight back already developed pathological changes.

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Types of osteophytes depending on the structure

Osteophytes are divided into:

• osteophytes of the compact substance of the bone tissue;
• bone, spongy structure;
• bone and cartilage formations;
• metaplastic growths.

Bone compact growths

Compact osteophytes, what is it? Bone is formed from two types of tissue. The compact substance has strength sufficient to withstand mechanical loads and is a homogeneous outer bone layer. It contains the bulk of phosphorus and calcium, other chemical elements are concentrated. In the human skeleton, compact bone tissue occupies up to 80%. Osteophytes of a compact type of tissue grow on the metatarsal bones of the foot and phalangeal areas of the arms and legs. The location of this type of osteophytes at the end sections of the bones is characteristic.

Osteophytes of bone cancellous

The second type of bone substance is a component of the spongy structure. Unlike compact tissue, the cellular substance is formed from bony partitions and plates, which does not give it strength and density. This tissue takes part in the device of the final sections of the bones of the tarsus, ribs, discs of the spine, wrists, sternum and fills almost the entire volume of tubular bones. It is in the porous structure that the bone marrow, which is involved in the process of blood formation, is concentrated.

Since the spongy porous substance has a large surface area, the corresponding osteophytes are formed on any part of the tubular bones as a result of increased stress on the bones.

Cartilaginous basis of osteophytes

Articular surfaces for smooth rotation are covered with cartilage. Due to various degenerative changes, metabolic disorders, injuries, the cartilage begins to crack, becomes drier, it becomes thinner and partially or completely destroyed. The body tries to make a replacement for the destroyed elastic pad in the form of growths on the rubbing surfaces of the bones. These osteophytes are most often formed in large joints that bear the greatest load, such as the knee, hip and scapular joints of the spine.

Metaplastic view of osteophytes

These growths form when one type of cell in the bone tissue is replaced by another. There are three types of basic cells:

• osteoblasts, young cells that produce intercellular synovial fluid to lubricate and nourish the cartilage tissue of the joints, later they transform into osteophytes;
• osteophytes take part in metabolic processes and are responsible for the unchanged composition of mineral and organic substances of bones;
• osteoclasts are derived from leukocytes and are involved in the destruction of obsolete bone cells.

If the bone tissue becomes inflamed or infected, then the ratio of the above cells becomes atypical, metaplastic osteophytes occur. The reason for their formation may be a violation of the natural restoration of the tissue.

Lead to the appearance of growths of bone tissue various disorders in the body:

Inflammatory processes

Purulent bacteria, such as streptococci, staphylococci, mycobacteria, getting into the bone, cause the development of osteomyelitis - an inflammatory process. This disease affects any of their bone tissues: compact substance, bone marrow, spongy component and periosteum. Pathogenic microbes and bacteria enter the body with an open fracture of the bone, with non-compliance with the rules of antisepsis during operations and treatment. Inflammations most often occur in the bones of the femoral joint, shoulder, spine in all departments, jaw joints.

Children are affected when the blood carries the infection from the focus of inflammation of the body to the bones or periarticular tissues, which leads to purulent muscle disease. In adults with a linear fracture, the focus of inflammation does not extend beyond its limits, fragmentation of the bone contributes to the spread of infection to a significant area, which complicates treatment. The regeneration process, with inflammation, ends with the appearance of osteophytes. In this case, an osteophyte is a detached periosteum. Under favorable circumstances, the growths that have arisen after osteomyelitis can decrease in size and even dissolve completely.

Degeneration of bones and tissues

The destruction of cartilage and bones of the joint occurs for various reasons in early and old age. Reasons are considered spondylosis deformans and osteoarthritis.

Destructive spondylosis contributes to the wear of the intervertebral discs, which consist of a ring of connective tissue and a jelly-like nucleus. These discs allow the spine to move. Spondylosis destroys the lateral parts and contributes to the protrusion of the nucleus, which, under heavy load, degenerates into osteophytes. Such growths occur along the entire length of the spine, starting from the lumbar region. Osteophytes are protective formations during destructive processes in the spine.

Deforming arthrosis is a devastating dystrophic disease that affects the cartilage in the joint. The cause, most often, is trauma, inflammation or metabolic disorders. After the complete destruction of the cartilage, the joint tries to increase the area for the perception of the load by the formation of osteophytes. In the third stage of the disease, complete deformity of the marginal areas of the bone joint and without surgical treatment, complete immobility of the joint occurs.

Fractures of the arms, legs, and joints cause osteophytes to form in situ between the displaced debris and the connective osteoid tissue. In this case, infection in open fractures provokes accelerated growth of osteophytes. Outgrowths after trauma are close in structure to the compact substance of the bone. Most often, osteophytes occur with fractures of large joints, they can change size over time.

A long stay in one position affects the increase in the load and the gradual wear of the cartilage, they are destroyed and lateral growths gradually appear on the bones of the joints.

Tumors provoke the development of osteophytes, and neoplasms are benign and malignant. In the latter case, osteophytes occur at the site of metastases from other organs to the bone.

Endocrine disorders in the body lead to skeletal changes. Cartilage tissue does not contain vessels that could feed it, therefore, it takes substances from the synovial fluid that forms in the connective environment. If, in the process of metabolic disorders, the necessary minerals and organics do not enter the periarticular space, then degenerative disorders in the cartilage begin. They break down and are replaced by osteophytes.

The cause of bone growths in the lumbar and other parts of the spine is destructive spondylosis. Growths arise in front of the vertebral body or they depart from the processes of the articulation. They are manifested by pain, degeneration of bones and ligaments starting from the lumbar spine along the entire length and limitation of motor ability.

The initial stage may not be characterized by the presence of pain, because of this, treatment is delayed. After a significant deformation of the vertebrae, the formation of osteophytes occurs, as a result, the narrowing of the canals of the spinal cord. Large osteophytes compress the nerve endings, they are infringed, and pain increases. Unpleasant pain is given to the thigh, lower leg, buttock, spreads along the projection of the sciatic nerve. Sometimes pinched nerves lead to loss of sensation in different parts of the body and the individual organs that they control. If the cervical region is affected, then violations can be traced in the vessels, with symptoms of dizziness, tinnitus and visual impairment.

Formation of osteophytes in the foot

In the foot, osteophytes most often appear on the heel bone, this is the so-called heel spur. The main cause of this formation is the disease heel fasciitis, which affects the plantar fascia. On the growth of formations inflammatory processes and trauma. A variety of osteophytes are formations around the nail plate, they raise it and cause unpleasant pain, as if from an ingrown nail.

An unpleasant sensation most disturbs the patient in the morning, intensifies during movement and exercise. During the day, the pain subsides, but the field of night reappears. With extensive calcaneal osteophytes, the function of the foot is impaired, lameness appears, caused by the fear of fully relying on the affected leg.

Bone growths in the shoulder, hip joint, knee

Sometimes the formation of bone outgrowths manifests itself precisely inside the articulation cavity, the cause of which is often destructive osteoarthritis or coxarthrosis of the joints. At the initial stage of their development, osteophytes are growths with sharp edges, whose height is not more than 2 mm. Without treatment and after complete narrowing of the interarticular gap, bone growths become of various shapes and sizes. An increase in osteophytes indicates the progression of the disease.

Treatment Methods

In order for the doctor to choose the right method of treatment, one should undergo an examination to make a reliable diagnosis, and, most importantly, to identify the cause of a devastating disease. Diagnosis of the disease is made by one of the progressive modern methods, or the results of one are confirmed with the help of a second examination. X-ray, computed tomography and resonance magnetic tomography are used to detect the disease. After confirming the diagnosis Treatment of osteophytes is carried out in the following ways:

• medications;
• physiotherapy methods;
• surgical treatment.

Drug treatment

Treatment with medicines is carried out at the first and second stages of deforming arthrosis and is reduced to the use of drugs that relieve the inflammatory process. Modern remedies perform several functions at once: they relieve pain, restore cartilage tissue and reduce inflammation. The most common medications are: ketoprofen, diclofenac, indomethacin, voltaren, all of which are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Physiotherapeutic effect

It is a complex of therapeutic methods using various factors of physical influence: magnetic rays, electricity, ultraviolet, heat, acupuncture, massage, physiotherapy and electrophoresis with novocaine. There are examples when it was the physiotherapeutic effect that helped relieve pain and restore the mobility of the lumbar spine or a large joint affected by osteophytes. Physiotherapy treatment should be combined with drug treatment, which gives effective results.

Surgical intervention

The operation to remove osteophytes is performed every time, taking into account the individual characteristics of the disease in the patient, the stage of development of the disease and the prognosis of the further course. If large osteophytes compress the nerve endings, due to which there is a violation of movement or loss of sensitivity, then surgical treatment is indicated in any case.

Surgery is resorted to if osteophytes compress the lumen of the brain canal in the spine and leads to disruption of the spinal cord with the corresponding symptoms, the patient feels numbness in the arms and legs, urination and bowel movements cease to be controlled.

In conclusion, it should be noted that a healthy lifestyle and timely examination at the slightest pain in the skeletal system will allow the patient to recover by simpler means and not bring the matter to surgery.

artrit.guru

General information

Osteophyte (another name is exophyte) is an abnormal growth of bone tissue that forms along the edge of various bones. For example, inside the elbow joint. Osteophytes formed inside a large joint can go unnoticed for a long time. However, as it grows, such a pathological formation causes a significant limitation of mobility, up to the complete immobilization of the affected joint.

When an outgrowth forms on the bones of the feet or hands, it becomes noticeable after germination to the surface. In this case, the exophyte has an awl- or thorn-like shape. The so-called "spur" is formed. Often its formation is provoked by damage to the articular bag or rupture of intraarticular ligaments.

The main areas of localization of osteophytes are:

• spinal column;
• foot;
• knee cap;
• hip joint;
• elbow;
• shoulder joint.

Osteophytes are formed not only on the spinal column itself, but also on adjacent processes. This is due to the onset of spondylosis. In shape, such osteophytes are usually similar to a bird's beak.

In addition to pinching the nerve endings, the overgrown osteophyte irritates the tissues of the adjacent ligaments. This causes a metabolism in them and a gradual hardening of soft tissues. In addition, the process of salt deposition is intensified.

On the foot, exophytes are most often observed in the area of ​​the calcaneus and the interphalangeal joint of the big toe. This is caused by excessive stress for a long time. The formation of heel spurs often begins with the constant wearing of shoes that are incorrectly matched to the size of the foot.

On medium-sized joints, osteophytes initially have the form of an awl or a thin spike. As they grow, they can take on a comb-like shape.

Causes of bone growth

The main causes of the appearance of osteophytes:

• excessive loads of a deforming nature;
• severe damage due to dangerous injuries and / or fractures;
• prolonged metabolic disorder;
• chronic inflammation;
• degenerative - dystrophic diseases of the joints;
• insufficient presence of calcium in the composition of bone tissue;
• pathological processes caused by various somatic diseases;
• the formation of oncological metastases in bone tissues.

Inflammation of bone tissue can begin under the influence of microorganisms such as:

• streptococci;
• staphylococci;
• mycobacteria.

Excessive loads on the joint are obtained with the constant lifting of weights that have a significant specific gravity. Overloading of the joint is not excluded during intensive sports training or peculiarities of work activity.

The appearance of an osteophyte often begins as a result of cartilage deformation. It can be caused by osteoarthritis, spondylosis or other similar diseases.

Fractures and other serious bone injuries often cause the development of osteophytes. Especially with their open form, when there is a danger of infection entering damaged bones. The result is osteomyelitis and/or other inflammation. Further, the development of osteophytes from the periosteum begins.

This connective tissue serves as the main material for the natural growth of bones. For example, with the growth of a child. Due to the periosteum, there is also a restoration of the bone damaged by various injuries or diseases.

Signs of the presence of osteophytes

Signs of bone tissue growth most often begin to appear during the progression of the pathological process or during the formation of a very large osteophyte.

In these cases, symptoms such as:

• sharp pain on movement
• tingling of the legs and / or hands;
• numbness of the limbs;
• decrease in dynamism.

With the formation of osteophytes in the spine, pain appears in the shoulder joint. If the growth squeezes the nerve endings, the shoulder weakens. The simplest movements become impossible. Often in this case, the scapula suffers.

The presence of the body in an unnatural position for a long period causes the destruction of cartilage tissue and an increase in stress on bone tissue. As a result, the growth of exophytes begins to protect damaged connections.

Bone tumors, both benign and malignant, often cause the development of spinous osteophytes. With cancer, metastases, sarcomas, etc. penetrate into the bone tissue from nearby organs. This causes the appearance and development of exophytes.

With a significant production of somatotropic hormone, dysfunction of the cerebral pituitary gland occurs - acromegaly. This leads to a noticeable deformation of the skeleton as a whole. The main complications in this pathology are spondylosis and/or osteoarthrosis, which increase the deformation of bone tissues.

If any of the above symptoms appear, you need to be examined by a narrow-profile specialist - an orthopedist or an arthrologist. This is necessary to determine the clinical picture and establish the main cause of the appearance of osteophytes.

Diagnostic measures

First of all, the doctor conducts an anamnestic conversation, a visual examination and a general examination of the patient. Then studies such as:

• radiography;
• magnetic resonance imaging - MRI;
• electroneurography - ENMG;
• laboratory blood test.

These examination methods allow assessing the condition of bone tissue and joints, determining the level of conduction and the degree of nerve damage. A blood test helps to recognize the presence of an infectious lesion of the body. Obtaining a complete clinical picture makes it possible to correctly determine the cause of the development of osteophytes and prescribe the necessary treatment course.

If osteophytes cause mild damage to the bone or joint, treatment is carried out using such means as:

• ointments to eliminate inflammation and pain;
• steroids administered by injection;
• massage;
• exercise therapy classes;
• physiotherapy.

To relieve pain caused by osteophytes, anti-inflammatory non-steroids are considered the most effective for oral administration. These include, in particular:

• Ketoprofen;
• Indomethacin;
• Diclofenac.

Additionally, the following may be assigned:

• anti-inflammatory drugs;
• chondroprotectors;
• restorative drugs;
• sedative tablets.

Conventional analgesics in this case, as a rule, have almost no effect.

Surgical intervention

With a significant size of osteophytes, the patient is disturbed by severe pain even during the simplest movements. As a result, the patient cannot lead a normal life. Therefore, in this case, urgent surgical intervention is required. This will later restore the dynamism of the joint. Nerve endings compressed by osteophytes can be decompressed.

When prescribing an operation to remove osteophytes, it is taken into account:

• patient's age;
• general condition of the body;
• sizes of exophytes;
• the rate of growth of bone tissue;
• the presence of dangerous comorbidities.

In parallel with the treatment of osteophytes, it is necessary to improve the general condition of the body, eliminate the cause of bone tissue growth and treat concomitant diseases.

Physiotherapy for the treatment of osteophytes

Various types of physiotherapy procedures are used to treat patients with osteophytes. Their choice and procedure is determined strictly individually.

Electrophoresis provides the fastest access of painkillers to the affected tissues. Novocaine or another drug used in this case is much more effective. Pain reduction lasts much longer than with oral or topical painkillers.

Diadynamic therapy is based on a local increase in temperature when an electric current with a frequency of about 100 Hz passes through the affected area. This is necessary to intensify metabolic processes and reduce pain. Improving the circulation of blood and lymph in the adjacent soft tissues significantly accelerates the recovery processes.

Laser therapy for osteophytes helps anesthesia
ivation and removal of swelling of adjacent soft tissues. Under the influence of this procedure, inflammatory processes gradually stop.

Shock wave therapy includes the method of affecting the affected tissues with acoustic impulses passing from a sound emitter through soft tissues to bone outgrowths. The pulse repetition rate is low, that is, it is on the verge of being perceived by its organs of hearing. This method is not very effective for integumentary and intervertebral tissues. The effectiveness of these procedures increases markedly with the passage of massage sessions and exercise therapy.

Folk remedies and prevention

Unfortunately, traditional medicine does not know the means and ways to get rid of osteophytes. However, some self-prepared pain relievers will help reduce the intensity of pain in the affected joint.

Infusion of hawthorn flowers take 1.5 tbsp. l. three times a day for half an hour before the next meal. To prepare it, it is necessary to brew dry raw materials with boiling water in the proportion of 1 tbsp. l. (with a slide) for 2.5 cups of water. Cover with a napkin and insist in a warm place for 15-20 minutes. Strain, add boiling water to the original volume.

An anesthetic infusion is also prepared from elderberry. Dry berries (1 tablespoon) should be brewed with boiling water (200 ml) in an enamel bowl. Keep for 15 minutes in a boiling water bath. Cool, covered with a napkin, and strain through cheesecloth. Drink 100 ml in the morning and evening.

Osteophytes, like other pathologies, are easier to prevent than to subsequently treat. The main measures that will help protect yourself from such growths of bone tissue:

• healthy lifestyle;
• balanced physical activity;
• proper nutrition;
• the use of a sufficient amount of calcium, phosphorus and other nutrients;
• lack of excessive physical overload;
• avoiding or minimizing bad habits;
• constant health monitoring.

After getting rid of osteophytes, these rules must be observed especially carefully. Otherwise, the possibility of their reappearance is not ruled out.

orthocure.ru

Causes of osteophytes

Osteophytes are formed with various damage to bone tissue:

Scientists believe that the evolutionary formation of outgrowths on the bone arose in order to prevent the tissue from further destruction.

Localization of bone formations

Most often, bone growths form in the following places:

• spine,
• foot,
• shoulder joint,
• knee-joint,
• hip joint.

Spine

The pathology in which osteophytes appear on the vertebrae is called spondylosis. Growths occur either directly on the body of the vertebra, or on its processes. At the initial stage of disease development and growth, osteophytes usually do not cause discomfort. Growing, especially in a significant amount, bone growths can lead to compression of the nerve roots, causing pain.

Also, bone formations often injure nearby ligaments. Constant irritation of the tissues of the ligaments can lead to metabolic disorders in them, to the deposition of salts and further ossification.

Foot

In the area of ​​the foot, osteophytes are usually found on the calcaneus or in the region of the interphalangeal joint of the big toe.

The most common reason for the formation of bone outgrowths in these places is a prolonged excessive load, leading to microtraumatization of the periosteum. The bony formation on the heel is also called a heel spur; it has a specific pointed shape.

joints

The formation of osteophytes in the joints can be triggered by arthrosis. In this case, they appear in large and small joints (for example, carpal), are able to grow in large numbers, have a different shape and are concentrated mainly on the marginal zone of the bones.

Characteristic symptoms

Symptoms of osteophytes depend on their location. In the process of growth, they do not cause any inconvenience, but with a significant size and in large numbers, they cause pain. The following are the symptoms of the disease, depending on the location of the bone formations:

Diagnostics

The presence of bone outgrowths can be diagnosed using x-rays and MRI. X-rays are quite informative in this pathology. However, if you need to get additional information about the condition of soft tissues, the articular cavity, or other structures, magnetic resonance imaging is used.

The form of osteophytes is specific to the place of their localization.

(if the table is not fully visible, scroll to the right)

Treatment Methods

Treatment for osteophytes may include:

1. Drug therapy

It is impossible to remove the resulting osteophytes with drugs. The use of medications is aimed at eliminating pain and inflammation (if any). Drug therapy of osteophytes does not depend on their location. A gel or ointment is applied externally to the affected area. The most commonly used NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are:

2. Physiotherapy

Physiotherapeutic treatment, as well as medication, does not lead to the complete disappearance of osteophytes. And it is also the same for all types of bone outgrowths, regardless of their location. Such treatment has the greatest effect at an early stage of the disease.

The only special condition is that if osteophytes are on the spine, shock wave therapy is not used.

The table below shows the main physiotherapeutic methods that are used in the treatment of osteophytes.

(if the table is not fully visible, scroll to the right)

3. Massage and exercise therapy

In addition to the above methods of treatment, massage and physiotherapy exercises are used. The duration, number and technique of conducting classes and sessions is prescribed by the attending physician, depending on the stage of development of the disease, the location of osteophytes and the physical condition of the patient. Massage and exercise therapy help eliminate congestion in the muscles, improve blood circulation and metabolism.

4. Surgical treatment

Surgery is resorted to when conservative therapy is ineffective, the pain does not go away, and the person loses his ability to work. The method of removing osteophytes depends on their location:

(if the table is not fully visible, scroll to the right)

Features of the treatment of osteophytes of various localization

In addition to the general (discussed above) methods of treatment, there are also specific ones that depend on where exactly the osteophytes are located. So, when the formation is located on the foot, it is recommended to significantly reduce the load by wearing a special orthopedic device - an orthosis. It fixes the foot in one position, which allows the tissues to recover after damage by an osteophyte. In addition to the orthosis, the use of a special plaster is shown, which maintains the joint and ligaments in a physiologically normal state.

In the treatment of osteophytes of the joints, chondroprotectors are used (drugs to restore the cartilage tissue of the joints), which stop their growth. In addition, parallel treatment of osteoarthritis helps prevent the appearance of new formations.

If you find osteophytes in yourself, consult a doctor as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis. And, since osteophytes are not an independent disease, but only a consequence of others, be sure to treat the underlying pathology that provoked them.

Subchondral sclerosis of the articular surfaces is often used to describe the images of the joint by a radiologist in patients with arthrosis (coxarthrosis and gonarthrosis). Nosologies are formed due to damage to the articular surface.

The deviation is formed due to inflammatory changes in the bone, followed by excessive growth of the connective tissue.

What subchondral sclerosis of articular surfaces

Subchondral sclerosis is a painful disease that affects people with osteoarthritis. Fortunately, subchondral sclerosis is easily detected and there are several treatment options available.

To understand what subchondral sclerosis is, it's helpful to have a clear picture of how osteoarthritis affects the body's joints. Not only does osteoarthritis degrade the cartilage in the joint, it also wears away under the subchondral bone underneath the cartilage.

When the body tries to repair this bone, it makes it thicker than before, leading to subchondral sclerosis. It is most often found in the later stages of osteoarthritis. Subchondral sclerosis can lead to bone loss and, in some cases, can reduce movement in the affected joint.

Most of the inhabitants of Russia suffer from arthrosis. The disease has become a widespread subject of attention due to the active aging of people in the 20th century.

Approximately 70% of diseases of rheumatic origin are due to arthrosis. The disease takes a leading place among all the culprits of disability. It greatly reduces the patient's quality of life, even if the damaged joint has been replaced.

In the elderly population, the most common location of subchondral sclerosis is in the hip area. Arthrosis deforming the hip joint causes immobility, pain when moving, loss of overall performance.

Hip fracture is caused by a hinge mechanism. The fundamental role of maintaining weight, posture, movement falls on the hips. Osteoarthritis impairs range of motion, stability of movement, leading to muscle breakdown.

For the effective operation of the hip joint, the following anatomical relationships must be observed:

• Strong fibrous capsule.
• The ideal surface of the head, the roof of the acetabulum.
• Strong muscular framework.

Practical observation of specialists indicates the following causes of the disease:

• mechanical injury.
• Protrusion of the iliac cavity (falling out of the anatomical region).
• Degeneration of the femoral head.
• Chronic arthritis (rheumatoid).
• Strong sports exercises.

Coxarthrosis is formed with equal frequency, both in men and women. For the normal functioning of the surface of the joint, a good blood flow is required, which supplies nutrients.

The most common underlying cause of subchondral sclerosis of the articular surfaces is a degenerative - dystrophic change. Lack of food particles, microcirculation leading to bone damage. Prolonged trauma, chronic inflammatory factors, lead to the growth of connective tissues (sclerosis).

Symptoms

The main and most significant indicator of arthrosis in the hip joint is pain in the groin. The sensation may radiate along the anterior, lateral surface, down the leg. In some form, the sufferer is affected by painful knee pain syndrome, which causes diagnostic problems.

At the 3rd stage of arthrosis, a pronounced stiffness is formed, after rest. It is difficult for the patient to take the limb to the side, lift it up, sit on a chair, put on shoes and socks.

Firstly, it reduces the range of the inside of the leg, makes it difficult to rotate, and the angle of retraction of the lower extremities is reduced. In the most severe case, the limb is difficult to palpate. The pain is initially localized on the side of the joint, there is secondary bursitis.

At stages 3 - 4 of arthrosis, a specific attribute is formed - "duck gait" when the leg is shortened, the movement of the femoral head. For a characteristic sign of Trendelenburg's deviation - when trying to support the affected limb, a downward displacement of the pelvis can be traced.

Due to the variety of symptoms, pain in coxarthrosis should be distinguished from other diseases:

• Symphysis.
• Enthesopathy.
• Bursitis.
• Peresthetic meralgia.

What are the symptoms of arthrosis 1 - 2 degrees according to Kellegren-Lawrence:

• Moderate subchondral sclerosis.
• Slight narrowing of the joint space.
• Place of ossification in the outer edge of the acetabulum (osteophytosis).
• Sharpening of the fossa of the femoral head at the attachment site around the ligament.

Symptoms of arthrosis 3 - 4 degrees according to Kellegren-Lawrence:

• Severe narrowing of the joint space.
• Formation of outgrowths of various shapes along the edge of the femoral head at the site of attachment of the round ligament.
• Severe sclerosis (subchondral).
• Sealing of the articular surface.
• Cystic restructuring of the bone structure.
• Aseptic necrosis of the femoral head.
• Head subluxation of the hip.

The above changes are easily seen when performing MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).

Significance of MRI in arthrosis - Identification of subchondral sclerosis at an early stage.

For early diagnosis of subchondral osteosclerosis, determination of changes in joints and ligaments, tendons, it is rational to use ultrasound to visualize inflammatory changes in bone tissue. Ultrasound is characterized by a subjective assessment, therefore, it is not enough for a correct diagnosis.

The reasons

Subchondral sclerosis of the articular surfaces is a pathology typical of the elderly. Scientists talk about the presence of facts regarding the proliferation of connective tissue fibers in the articular surface in young people. The number of cases is constantly growing.

Endogenous, that is, caused by internal factors:

• Endocrine pathology in the body can cause thinning of cartilage tissue or changes in tissue bone. The main endocrine factors are diabetes. This disease entails a violation of blood circulation in the lower extremities.
• As mentioned above, mostly elderly people. Therefore, the age of the patient is also important.
• Hereditary or genetic predisposition leads to a high risk of joint diseases. If a woman has arthritis, collagenosis or osteochondrosis in her mother, such a patient has a high probability of developing a pathological process in the body.
• Articular inflammation is caused by disorders of the immune system. For example, systemic lupus erythematosus.
• Vascular pathology of one or another joint leads to changes in bone tissue.

Exogenous causes - caused by external factors:

• Micro injury. Most often, these violations are observed when working with a tool (jackhammer miner or builder). In addition, dancers and some athletes daily load the joints of the same group, the result of this load is micro-injuries.
• Intra-articular fractures disrupt the nutrition of bone tissue, which leads to the development of pathological processes.
• Excess weight puts a huge strain on the joints and the effect is continuous.
• Metabolic disorders in the body, for example, Wilson's disease, gout.
• Congenital defects of the joints, for example, congenital dislocation of the hip joint.
• Dysplasia is a disease associated with changes in the articular and ligamentous apparatus, which leads to dislocation.

Subchondral sclerosis of the articular surfaces is often caused by physical inactivity. The intervertebral disc suffers from a lack of nutrition and, as a result of the lack of movement, is subjected to overload.

Polyetiological disease with a tendency to increase in the elderly and young people.

Prevention of subchondral osteosclerosis

For the prevention of osteosclerosis, the following recommendations must be observed:

• Do not overcool.
• Eat rationally.
• Observe the mode of work and rest.
• If you suspect a malfunction of the articular surface (pain, swelling, difficulty walking, be sure to consult a doctor).
• Don't gain weight.

Prevention protects against arthritis. Treatment of the disease has not been developed. Existing drugs are expensive and aim to prevent the progression of the disease.