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Knee joints are among the most complex joints within our body. They allow us to contract and to extend our leg muscles and they are particularly important for our balance as well as our mobility. However, precisely because they are so complex, there are various issues that can befall them. Even the smallest concussion can lead to unimaginable complications. If we exclude all the sports injuries that are quite common, osteoarthritis represent the biggest threat to this part of body.
Osteoarthritis is one of many different types of arthritis. According to Medica Depot, there are above hundred different type of this disease. Although osteoarthritis can affect hips and wrists, the one developing within the knees is the most debilitating.
Our body produces all the necessary substances which allow it to function properly. When it comes to knees, cartilage represents crucial tissue that is allowing us to absorb hits and stress exerted on the knees. Because this tissue is always under pressure, it is constantly being depleted and replenished. Patient that has osteoarthritis is no longer able to naturally synthesize cartilage cells and in time, they start to dissolve. Without it, there is nothing between the bones that serve as a protective layer. In time, the bones will start rubbing each other leading to creation of mineral deposits, pain, inflammation and loss of flexibility.
Doctors are not quite certain what causes osteoarthritis. Like most other diseases, it can be biological meaning that parents who had this disease can easily transfer the gene to their children. Naturally, it can also be mechanical. The more we use our knees, the easier it is to develop it. People who are working exhausting physical jobs with a lot of joints movement are prone to this illness. In some cases, it can be caused by a severe trauma to the knees. Illness usually affects women after their menopause. It is common for athletes and obese individuals.
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As soon as you notice first symptoms of osteoarthritis, it is necessary to contact your doctor and start taking medication. By using Orthovisc, you are able to control the pressure exerted on your knees, to improve joint integrity and reduce pain. The drug is injected into the knees once per week, for three to four weeks. Drug creates an artificial gel that needs to substitute your natural cells. This gel can provide a temporary relief and much needed cushion for your bones.
However, like any other drug, there are certain side effects when using Orthovisc. Mild issues are irritation, redness, bruising, bleeding, swelling, pain and anything else caused by irritation of tissue. Unfortunately, severe side effects are much more malicious and they include shortness of breath, tightening in chest, swelling, rash etc.
When treating your knees, Orthovisc is not enough. It is necessary for patient to undergo a complete change of lifestyle, to avoid exercises as well as any sports, to undergo physical therapy and to increase quantity of vitamins and calcium in their diet.
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