What is Joint Calcification?
By: Assoc. Dr. Ata Can
What is Joint Calcification?
It is a health problem that occurs as a result of the wear and loss of joint cartilage over time. joint calcification It is often associated with old age. However, trauma, overuse or genetic factors can also affect it. Friction increases on the surface, leading to symptoms such as pain, swelling and stiffness. It can cause limitation of movement and negatively affect quality of life.
What are the Symptoms of Joint Calcification?
It usually starts with joint pain, and this pain increases over time. Pain may become more pronounced, especially when using or moving the joint. Pain may also occur during rest. Due to cartilage loss, their movements may be limited and they may become stiff.
Stiffness may be more noticeable, especially in the morning or after long periods of inactivity. Swelling may occur as a result of inflammation and fluid accumulation. You may hear crackling, popping, or clicking sounds. These sounds may occur as a result of cartilage loss and friction of joint surfaces.
As the condition progresses, the ability to use may decrease and cause muscle weakness. Your movements may be restricted due to pain and stiffness. It may limit your daily activities. There may be swelling in the joints as a result of inflammation.
Symptoms of joint arthritis If it is experienced, an orthopedic doctor should examine it. It is important that you get diagnosed. Treatment options may vary depending on the severity and location of the disease. It is aimed at reducing pain, improving joint function and improving quality of life.
What are the Risk Factors for Joint Calcification?
As age increases, the risk of the disease increases. Aging can cause the natural deterioration of cartilage tissue. Women have a higher risk than men. Family history may influence risk.
If there is a history of this disease in your family, your risk may increase. Carrying excess weight can put extra strain on joints, which can increase the risk.
Previous joint injuries or surgeries may increase the risk later in life. Certain occupations or sports activities may increase the risk. For example, doing heavy physical work or playing high-impact sports can cause damage.
Some health problems, especially inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, increase the risk. Bone health problems such as osteoporosis may increase the risk. Hormonal changes, especially after menopause, may increase the risk. Muscles play an important role in supporting and protecting joints. Muscle weakness may increase the risk.
These risk factors may differ from person to person. of a person joint arthritis may affect the likelihood of development. Therefore, it is necessary to make healthy lifestyle changes to reduce or control the risk of the disease. It is also important to follow the doctor's recommendations. It is also important to have regular doctor checkups.
Joint Calcification Treatment Methods
Painkillers can be used to relieve pain in the initial stage. Anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce joint inflammation.
Corticosteroid injections can be injected into cases of severe pain. In some cases, hyaluronic acid injections may be administered.
Exercise programs can be applied to increase muscle strength, improve mobility and reduce pain. Warm compresses or cold packs can relieve pain.
Regular aerobic exercise such as walking or cycling can reduce symptoms. Exercises that especially strengthen peripheral muscles can increase joint stability.
For people who are overweight, weight loss may relieve symptoms. Special joint supports or splints can reduce pain. Using a cane or walker can help maintain balance and reduce pain. Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and some spices (for example, turmeric) support joint health. If other treatment methods are not effective and the damage is too advanced, surgical options are considered.
This may include prosthetics or modifications. joint calcification Treatment may vary depending on the person's symptoms, age, lifestyle and severity of the disease. It would be best to determine your treatment plan by consulting with a healthcare professional. Remember that with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, symptoms can be controlled and quality of life can be improved.