How to treat effusion in osteoarthritis?

Written by Guan Jing Tao
Orthopedics
Updated on September 05, 2024
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General treatment methods are mainly divided into two categories. First, conservative treatment, which is non-surgical and includes rest, immobilization, localized physical therapy such as heat application, acupuncture, etc. Physical therapy includes techniques like spectrum therapy, infrared, and diathermy. For some patients with mild osteoarthritis and minor effusions, these can gradually be absorbed over one to two weeks, and symptoms of pain and swelling can be alleviated. This can be combined with oral intake of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as celecoxib or ibuprofen. For patients with recurrent episodes, or those who are middle-aged and above with severe osteoarthritis and degeneration, and have substantial effusion, conservative treatments are generally not very effective. Therefore, we can try aspirating the effusion in the knee joint and appropriately administer intra-articular sodium hyaluronate injections to promote the recovery of osteoarthritis and delay the degeneration of bone proliferation. If conservative treatment still does not bring significant relief, then arthroscopic debridement and corresponding surgical treatments for the knee joint may be considered.

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Symptoms of osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a disease caused by degenerative changes in the joints, with symptoms primarily manifesting as swelling, pain, fluid accumulation, and limited mobility in the joints. Severe cases may even lead to joint deformities and movement disorders. In terms of treatment for arthritis, it can be divided into non-surgical and surgical treatments. Non-surgical treatment involves rest and avoiding strenuous activities to prevent further joint damage. It may also include the use of anti-inflammatory painkillers, chondroprotective drugs, or intra-articular injections of sodium hyaluronate to relieve symptoms. Additionally, treatments such as hot compresses and physical therapy can be used. When conservative treatment is ineffective or accompanied by limb deformities and movement disorders, joint replacement surgery may also be an option.

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Written by Cheng Bin
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Late-stage symptoms of osteoarthritis

In clinical settings, the symptoms of late-stage osteoarthritis are primarily characterized by severe joint swelling and pain, and the joints are prone to deformity, which affects the patient's ability to work or carry on with daily activities. For late-stage osteoarthritis, surgical intervention is often necessary. It requires thorough preoperative examinations to rule out surgical contraindications, followed by prosthetic joint replacement surgery. Postoperatively, it is crucial to actively manage the surgical site by changing dressings and disinfecting to prevent infection, typically every two to three days. Additionally, anticoagulant medications are needed to prevent the occurrence of thrombosis.

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Orthopedics
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Osteoarthritis contraindications

Patients with osteoarthritis should reduce joint load and excessive movements, and obese patients should pay attention to weight loss to avoid aggravating cartilage damage. When symptoms are severe, a cane can be used to alleviate the burden on the joints. In terms of diet, one can eat more foods rich in vitamins, mainly various vegetables and fruits, and also consume foods high in calcium appropriately. Patients with arthritis should also pay attention to protecting the joint areas, and guard against cold and dampness to avoid exacerbating symptoms. When symptoms are severe, medication can also be used for treatment, such as anti-inflammatory analgesics and drugs that nourish cartilage, which can play a role in improving symptoms and delaying the progression of the disease. When mobility is impaired, surgical treatment might be necessary.

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Is moxibustion okay for osteoarthritis?

Moxibustion for osteoarthritis is feasible; it can alleviate local symptoms of pain and swelling in osteoarthritis. Currently, there are two methods of treatment for osteoarthritis: The first is conservative treatment, which includes physical therapy, rehabilitation, moxibustion, acupuncture, oral medication, and injections of sodium hyaluronate, all of which can relieve symptoms of joint pain, swelling, and discomfort during movement. The second method is surgical treatment, which is considered when conservative treatment is ineffective, or when symptoms worsen after conservative treatment. Presently, there are two approaches to surgical treatment: The first involves arthroscopic minimally invasive cleaning of the joint, followed by further cleaning of the meniscus and synovium; the second method is joint replacement, with total knee replacement being the most common.

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Is hot compress good for osteoarthritis?

For patients with osteoarthritis, hot compresses are very effective. Hot compresses can promote local blood circulation, which can effectively alleviate the clinical symptoms of osteoarthritis. Usually, hot compresses are applied using hot water bottles, or by heating bran or salt, which are very effective. Typically, apply the hot compress twice a day, each time for more than half an hour. Additionally, aside from hot compresses, it is important to protect the affected area in patients with osteoarthritis, avoid exposure to cold, and reduce irritation to the area. When necessary, treatment may also need to be supplemented with medications, such as pain relievers and drugs that nourish the cartilage.