König's disease: causes, symptoms and ways of treatment

König's disease is a rather dangerous condition,which is accompanied by gradual cartilage necrosis. It is worth noting that the site of necrosis is clearly limited articular cartilage and that part of the bone tissue that adjoins it. Over time, the cartilaginous tissue covering the bone begins to peel off and, in the most severe conditions, completely separates.

König's disease and its causes

In fact, the causes of this disease are stillnot studied, although there are a lot of theories. At one time it was believed that necrosis is the result of an inflammatory process. Nevertheless, using the methods of modern medicine it has been proven that there are no signs of inflammation in the affected joint.

To date, there are severalassumptions. For example, it is believed that a necrotic process occurs with ischemia, when the joints do not receive the required amount of blood, and, consequently, oxygen and nutrients. Some scientists also suggest that the detachment of cartilage is associated with permanent microtrauma, severe fractures, a violation of bone growth processes, anatomical features of the structure of the joint, and heredity. In any case, there is no unanimous opinion on this score.

König's disease: the main symptoms

In most cases necrosis occurs in the kneeor hip joint. Nevertheless, sometimes ulnar and radial joints can be affected. In most cases, the disease manifests itself in men under the age of 20 years. Of course, the disease is diagnosed in women. It is proved that athletes most often suffer from this ailment.

The main symptom of Koenig is joint pain,which is strengthened after heavy physical exertion and sports training. In addition, a very strong crunch is characteristic when flexing and extending the joint. Sometimes soft tissues, located above the dying cartilage, swell. As the disease progresses, freedom of movement is greatly limited. For example, many patients can not fully bend or bend the limb, and also complain of weakness in the joints.

In any case, these symptoms should be followed by an appointment with a doctor.

König's disease: methods of diagnosis

After the specialist becomes familiar with the complaintspatient, he will assign a series of studies. First you need to make an X-ray. Sometimes a doctor performs an X-ray examination of two joints at once to compare the characteristics of their structure. In addition, a computer tomography is performed, with the help of which it is possible to determine the location of the detachment of the cartilage. Sometimes also requires a magnetic resonance imaging, which gives a clear image, both bone and joint, and soft tissue.

König's disease: treatment

In the early stages of the diseaseConservative methods of treatment are effective. The patient is prescribed drugs that activate the regeneration processes, and also improve blood circulation and nutrition of the joint. In addition, the patient must give up physical exertion and regularly do special exercises.

Unfortunately, medicines and physiotherapy are not always effective. Sometimes the only way out is surgery.