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My legs feel like they're in a vice. When joints are squeezed in a vice: how to deal with gout? Violation of water-salt metabolism

The disease is accompanied by congestion in the superficial veins of the lower extremities, decreased elasticity and increased permeability of the vascular wall. In the later stages, the pathology can be complicated by thrombophlebitis, which is characterized by the formation of blood clots on the inflamed mucous membrane of the veins. This causes constant pain due to swelling and heaviness in the leg muscles.

Atherosclerosis of the arteries

Violation of water-salt metabolism

When water-salt metabolism is disrupted, the concentration of potassium in the blood serum decreases. This chemical element is responsible for the processes of excitation in cells and the transmission of neuromuscular impulses. The result is a violation of the contraction of muscle cells, including the lower extremities. Causes of potassium loss may include:

  1. Diseases occurring with profuse diarrhea.
  2. Conditions accompanied by profuse vomiting.
  3. Uncontrolled use of diuretics.

As a result of dehydration, the following appear:

  • chest pain, rhythm disturbance;
  • decrease in blood pressure;
  • feeling of thirst;
  • spasms of the lower extremities;
  • pain and heaviness in the calf muscles;
  • impairment of motor function, up to the development of paresis and paralysis.

A critical decrease in potassium levels in the blood can lead to death as a result of cardiac dysfunction.

Cramps in the calves, which often occur at night, may indicate a lack of magnesium in the body. Usually taking this element can eliminate the problem.

Excessive exercise

When tired and overtrained, heaviness in the legs occurs as a result of excess accumulation of lactic acid and does not require treatment. Discomfort in the calf muscles associated with diseases requires careful diagnosis and the prescription of complex therapy.

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    1. Hello, Anastasia.
      Consultant doctor's response:

      There are more than enough reasons for pain:
      the outflow of venous blood is impaired;
      a focus of inflammation appeared in the nerve fibers on the periphery.
      If the pain is throbbing, then there may be an inflammatory process in the vein. If the place swells and hardens, thrombophlebitis develops, which can cause a blood clot to break off at any time.
      In a sitting position, the calves begin to ache due to a deficiency of vitamins and microelements, in particular calcium in the body. It is worth reviewing your diet and taking a general and detailed blood test.
      Perhaps there are problems of a neuralgic nature or there were old injuries in the case of sprained ligaments or muscles of the joint.
      The calves also hurt due to vascular diseases and impaired venous blood circulation. When walking, the blood rises. With prolonged sitting, it begins to stagnate in the calf muscles. The reason for this is a sedentary lifestyle, excess weight, or accumulation of toxins, oxygen starvation in the muscles.
      When the sciatic nerve is inflamed, the spine itself does not hurt, but a paroxysmal pain syndrome occurs in the muscles.
      It is osteochondrosis, as you noted, that leads to muscle discomfort. The reason for this is a pinched nerve, damage to the nervous system in the periphery. You need the help of a neurologist and most likely you need to contact him.
      The musculoskeletal system has a complex structure, practically entangled with nerve fibers, and pain can radiate to the calves of the legs from almost any node peripheral to the spinal column. As a rule, blood circulation is impaired in one leg, i.e. at the site of pathology and has a local course. What to do, the joint loses its elasticity and flexibility.
      A comprehensive examination, CT, and MRI are required. If the cause of pain in the calf muscle is unclear, it is the syndrome that needs to be eradicated, and not the pain itself, by rubbing in various ointments and gels. Try using anti-inflammatory medications to increase blood flow as well. Apply a cold towel to the sore area.
      You need to see a rheumatologist or infectious disease specialist. And, of course, only complete diagnostics. Massage, physiotherapy, therapeutic mud, foot baths with the addition of nettle, mint, chamomile, sage, plantain should be beneficial.

    2. Hello.
      Sorry for the delay - I just arrived.
      Consultant doctor's response:

      It’s not entirely clear what “feeling as if someone is walking over a hematoma” means. Does your son’s leg or yours feel like you’re feeling a liquid structure? Or are we talking about pain in your son, similar to that if you touch a bruise on the skin?
      If you suspect the presence of fluid, you should urgently contact your surgeon directly.

      If we are talking about pain, and such sensations have not been observed before, then they can indeed be associated with severe hypothermia against the background of a recent cold and pharyngitis. In viral diseases, the blood vessels of the entire body suffer and may even be damaged. Also, high temperature and intoxication impair the functioning of the thyroid gland, which affects metabolic processes in the tissues and blood vessels of the body, and can even contribute to vascular spasms.
      Recommended:
      Contact your pediatrician or adolescent doctor. Ultrasound of the vessels of the lower extremities and rheovasography can determine the functional state of the vessels and surrounding tissues. Also, consultation with an endocrinologist will eliminate the negative impact of a recent disease on the hormonal activity of the thyroid gland.
      Herbal preparations with anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous and antispasmodic effects can improve metabolism and metabolism in blood vessels and help recovery. For example, Quercetin. Vitamin preparations that have a positive effect on the vascular wall are also indicated: rutin or, in combination with vitamin C, ascorutin. The choice of specific drugs, dose and time of administration can only be determined by the attending physician after examination and diagnosis.

    3. Hello, Oksana.
      Here's what the consultant doctor (a good therapist) says:

      With flat feet, equinism, and hallux valgus, uneven and prolonged contractions of individual muscle areas, stretching of the fascia, and disruption of the ligamentous apparatus of the lower extremities occur. In addition, in the described case, shortening of the muscles and tendons of the lower leg is likely. This leads to constant tension in the muscular-ligamentous system and the inability to relax. As a result, blood supply, nutrition and metabolism in the legs are disrupted. And it is foot deformities that are most likely the cause of the child’s disturbed condition. Unfortunately, prolonged, uneven load affects not only muscles, but also joints (knees, hips), which can also hurt and become deformed in the future.
      It is necessary to undergo examination, observation and treatment by a competent orthopedic surgeon. Pain and exercise intolerance are symptoms, they form part of the clinical picture and are significant to the doctor. The degree of flatfoot is recorded during X-ray examination using special techniques (in different projections, with a load). This study must be carried out periodically, images and conclusions must be saved to record possible progression of the process.
      It is very important to carry out therapeutic measures under the supervision of an orthopedist. Special massages, physiotherapy, and physical therapy are used, designed individually to restore the normal arch of the foot. Swimming is a good sport; it reduces the load on joints, muscles, ligaments and blood vessels. To reduce tension and pain, you can recommend taking warm foot baths (for the legs, feet) with salt in the evening (2 tablespoons of coarse or sea salt per 10 liters of water) for about 20 minutes.
      Depending on the situation, it is possible to resolve the issue not only about orthopedic insoles (they need to be changed several times a year), but also about special shoes with rigid fixation of the foot. Constant medical supervision is necessary, and as the process progresses, a decision on possible surgical correction is required.

    1. Hello, Elina.
      Sorry for such a long answer.

      Yes, pain can be the result of an injury.
      With the described symptoms, it is necessary to exclude the presence of muscle injury, sprain of the ligamentous apparatus, traumatic damage to blood vessels, as well as dilatation of venous vessels (deep vein varicose veins). It is important to consider (during sedentary work and intense exercise) that changes in the spine can also manifest as pain in the limbs, swelling and heaviness in them.
      In this case, it is recommended to consult a surgeon. The doctor will examine the leg and refer you for the necessary examinations: a general blood test (to exclude an inflammatory process), determination of indicators of the blood coagulation system (which is important for possible vascular changes), ultrasound of the vessels of the lower extremities. And also, if necessary, will refer you for consultation to related specialists: a vascular surgeon, traumatologist, neurologist.

    5. Good afternoon, Timur. Now is the time that the main doctors who answer questions are all either traveling (business trips, recertification, etc.) or have just returned and are still busy... That’s why we had to wait so long. Sorry. If the answer is relevant, then here it is:

      Such a symptom complex makes it necessary to first exclude pathology of the vessels of the lower extremities, muscles and nerve endings. In this case, nerve fibers are most often affected secondarily.
      Also, intense physical activity can provoke pain in the presence of flat feet (both longitudinal and transverse). At the same time, pain in the calves can gradually arise and intensify, and also decrease after rest.
      First of all, in this case, consultation with a surgeon is recommended. If necessary, the doctor will refer you for consultation to a vascular surgeon, neurologist, or orthopedist. To confirm the diagnosis, instrumental methods are used: x-rays of the feet, ultrasound examinations of arteries and veins.
      After receiving the results of a complete examination and confirming the diagnosis, the attending physician can prescribe adequate and effective therapy.

    6. Hello Christina.
      Answer from a medical practitioner and site consultant:

      In medicine, there is restless legs syndrome. In this case, first of all, it is necessary to exclude it. Taking into account the family history (the presence of varicose veins in the father), we can assume the presence of varicose changes in the lower extremities. When deep veins are affected, no changes occur on the surface; upon examination, the skin will not be changed, dilated veins are not visible.
      There are a lot of other possible causes: ranging from changes in the spine (osteochondrosis with secondary changes in nerve endings (radiculopathy or radiculitis), nutritional disorders with the development of a lack of certain vitamins and minerals, changes not only in veins, but also in arteries, and ending with general diseases (hormonal sphere, respiratory system).
      To diagnose the described changes, it is necessary to examine the state of the vascular system (ultrasound of the vessels of the lower extremities, rheovasography), general clinical studies (state of the coagulation system).
      Consultation with a surgeon, phlebologist and general practitioner is recommended. Doctors will select the direction of the diagnostic search, and only after establishing a diagnosis will they be able to prescribe an adequate correction.

    7. Good afternoon, Maxim.

      Gonarthrosis was diagnosed. This disease can present with knee pain and movement disorders. It is treated over a long period of time (since the disease is usually chronic, it can last for months and years, with periods of exacerbations and remissions). The course of therapy includes anti-inflammatory drugs and physiotherapy. Sanatorium-resort treatment (mud therapy) is effective in the absence of signs of an active inflammatory process, which often accompany gonarthrosis (arthrosis of the knee joint). Particular attention should be paid to the ligamentous apparatus (taking into account surgical intervention). It is treated under the supervision of an orthopedic doctor or surgeon.
      Discomfort in the legs can be associated not only with venous vessels, but also with arterial ones. In this context, it is recommended to consult a vascular surgeon, conduct studies of arterial vessels, ultrasound duplex angioscanning of the arteries of the lower extremities and rheovasography. And based on the results of the studies, doctors will be able to prescribe appropriate treatment.

    8. Good afternoon, Olga.

      The described picture most likely corresponds to changes in the veins, internal veins of the lower extremities. Therefore, they may not be visible from the outside.
      For diagnosis (excluding varicose veins of the lower extremities), it is recommended to consult a surgeon (you can see a vascular surgeon, phlebologist). Instrumental studies are carried out: rheovasography and ultrasound (Dopplerography) of the veins of the lower extremities. It is important to determine whether there is a tendency to thrombus formation (blood test for coagulation and bleeding duration, blood platelets, coagulogram, IPT or INR).
      Therapeutic measures will be determined by the attending physician.
      It is also important to exclude the presence of flat feet (it can intensify or even cause pain, heaviness in the legs, and is diagnosed by a surgeon).
      General recommendations: comfortable shoes, try not to stay for a long time with bent knees (sitting, in particular), as this impairs the movement of blood in the legs, try not to stand for a long time, take foot salt baths in the evening, lie down in the evening for half an hour with legs raised above head level (to facilitate the outflow of blood from the veins of the legs to the torso area), a diet without a large amount of salt, so as not to increase tissue swelling.

    9. Hello, Dmitry!

      Considering such precise localization with the involvement of specific muscles in the process, and symptoms that resemble changes in sensitivity (stony, heavy legs), which can be combined with changes in the blood circulation of these muscles, first of all it is necessary to exclude secondary changes (nerves and muscles) against the background of disorders from the spine (osteochondrosis, pinched nerves, secondary radicular syndrome, up to the exclusion of protrusion and herniation of the intervertebral disc, when the nerve endings are pinched in the area of ​​exit from the spinal column).
      It is recommended to visit a competent neurologist. The doctor can diagnose local changes in sensitivity, as well as disorders of the motor nerve endings.
      In terms of examination, the most informative is an MRI of the spine; the study can only be prescribed by a doctor.
      Until a diagnosis is made, it is recommended to refrain from physical exertion that may aggravate the condition, including stretching. If you can’t do without swimming, then it’s better to do it on your back and with a slight range of motion and speed.
      After establishing a diagnosis and identifying possible contraindications, drug therapy and manual therapy are indicated.

    10. Hello, Andrey!

      With prolonged and intense loads (which includes long-distance marathon running), injury to vascular formations, nervous structures, muscle tissue and joint-ligamentous apparatus is possible. Therefore, it is necessary to exclude the presence of neuropathy (changes in nerves) and vasopathy (vascular) of a traumatic nature. Injury increases when running on hard and uneven surfaces (asphalt, slabs, rocky roads), poorly selected shoes, and increases in the presence of flat feet.
      To make an accurate diagnosis, you need to consult a doctor (neurologist, surgeon), additional studies: ultrasound of blood vessels, blood tests to identify signs of inflammation and the state of the blood coagulation system.
      Among the general recommendations, it is important to pay attention to the nature of the warm-up (warming up all muscle groups) and stretching exercises. Water procedures (swimming pool, sauna) and massage help normalize blood circulation (in the absence of inflammatory changes).
      Products and vitamin complexes (containing vitamins P, C (ascorutin)), group B, bioflavonoids (quercetin)), agents affecting venous outflow and blood vessels in general (detralex, escin, angionorm), chondroprotectors (containing chondroitin and glucosamine) improve the condition of the vascular wall, nervous system and musculoskeletal system. The choice of specific remedies can only be made by the attending physician.

    11. Hello Angela!

      The described picture requires determining the condition of the vessels and nerve fibers of the lower extremities, along with diagnosing changes in the spine. Changes in blood vessels (both arteries and veins) may be secondary to osteochondrosis of the spine, as well as mechanical pressure and tissue malnutrition due to excess body weight. It is important to exclude any common diseases. Especially those associated with metabolic disorders.
      Since it is necessary to exclude radicular syndrome with damage to the sciatic nerve, nerve fibers and plexuses of the thighs, legs and feet (so-called secondary neuropathy), arterial angiopathy, varicose veins of the deep veins of the lower extremities, it is recommended:
      Consultation with a therapist (to determine the state of the cardiovascular and other systems), consultation with an endocrinologist (to exclude diseases that cause changes in blood vessels and nerves), a neurologist and, if necessary, as determined by the therapist, a vascular surgeon.
      In terms of examination, in addition to general clinical blood and urine tests: x-ray (and, if necessary, MRI) of the lumbar and sacral spine), rheovasography and ultrasound of the vessels of the lower extremities.
      After examination and diagnosis, doctors will be able to give clear recommendations on lifestyle and nutrition, select medications, doses and timing of administration.

    12. Hello, Yana!
      Therapist's response:

      Considering the described picture, first of all it is necessary to exclude changes in the vessels of the veins of the lower extremities. A feeling of fullness and pain may indicate local venous stagnation. At the same time, if the changes concern the internal venous network, then this does not manifest itself in any way from the outside - there may be no expansion and visual appearance of veins, as well as swelling.
      The presence of pain indicates the need to determine the condition of the peripheral nerves. Osteochondrosis of the spine can lead to secondary radicular syndrome and the reaction of nerves located far from the spine. What causes pain.
      To diagnose osteochondrosis, an X-ray examination is used at the first stage; in this case, it is necessary to examine the lumbar and sacral regions. Osteochondrosis is often a common process; it may not be limited only to the cervical region.

One of my friends, who works as a pharmacist, once complained that, when putting on summer shoes, she could hardly squeeze into her last year’s shoes. “You know,” she told me, “I understand everything: what else can a lady like me expect if she crossed Balzac’s age not yesterday, but on her feet every day for a whole shift. So I completely justify the swelling and fatigue. But when, because of the purple bruises on your legs, you can’t put on a skirt or squeeze into your favorite shoes - I, as a woman, simply cannot ignore this!”

Actually, there is no need to ignore this. Moreover, don’t you think that all these symptoms are the lot of ladies whose age is described by the correct phrase “a little over thirty,” but whom we are all accustomed to seeing in a blue cambric robe at the entrance. Be that as it may: in fact, most of the symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency (which we also know as varicose veins of the lower extremities or simply varicose veins) are familiar to many of us. Even if you are actually a little over thirty and you are an office worker who spends all his time at the computer; if you are a young loader or pregnant; If you, as we say in Ukraine, are a “huge woman” or a slender beauty wearing a 20-centimeter stiletto heel, sooner or later the majority can still feel the unpleasant symptoms of this disease.

Another thing is that many simply do not want to admit to themselves their problems, or sometimes sincerely explain all these phenomena in the same way as my friend - the consequences of age, work characteristics, fatigue. We are so used to optimistically reassuring ourselves that everything will go away on its own or that the problem can be solved using simple cosmetics.

Swelling and heaviness in the lower extremities after a hard day, which creates the feeling that the legs are being squeezed from all sides in a vice? - Just think! Well, what did you want at the end of the working day?!

Restless legs syndrome, manifested by a burning sensation, tingling sensation, internal tension and preventing us from working or resting calmly? Night cramps in the calf muscles? - Come on, it doesn’t happen to anyone!

Unsightly purple capillary network that gradually appears and covers the ankle, and then rises up the shin, showing up as veins bulging at the surface? - Well, this is what we all have in our family! I'll need to buy some foot cream later!

Constant heaviness and fatigue of the legs, making itself felt even in the morning, when, it would seem, the whole body should rest and recover after a hard day? Almost permanent swelling, due to which you have to spend a good 5-10 minutes to squeeze into shoes, and because of which the feeling of lightness of gait is completely forgotten? Protruding veins, dry and flaky skin on the legs, dark age spots and bruises?.. And then we understand that we should probably go to the pharmacy...

The usual story

However, in order to somehow reassure those affected by this problem, it should be noted that chronic venous insufficiency is not at all a disease of modern civilization. We have found references to this problem almost since the advent of writing. For example, during the times of Ancient Egypt, a mention of varicose veins of the lower extremities is found in the Ebers papyrus, which is more than 3,500 years old. It also mentions the first attempt at his treatment. The famous Greek surgeon and obstetrician Pavel Eginsky, long before Friedrich Trendelenburg, proposed the application of ligatures and surgical removal of varicose veins as a method of treatment. In ancient Rome, in the medical treatise “De Medicina,” a Roman physician named Celsius described methods for ligating and removing varicose veins, as well as possible complications. Thanks to historical notes, today we can say with certainty that the first historical figure who underwent phlebectomy was the Roman tyrant Gaius Marius. After he had one leg operated on, he, tormented by pain (after all, anesthesia did not exist at that time!), refused to substitute the second one, and declared: “I see that the treatment is not worth the pain.”

The ancient Indian manual on surgery “Sushruta Samhita” (270 BC) describes a technique for cleansing trophic ulcers using meat fly larvae in combination with tight bandaging of the limb. First, Hippocrates, and then Avicenna, described a direct connection between chronic venous insufficiency and the occurrence of ulcers. Only in 1628 did William Harvey discover the circulatory system and describe the valves in the venous vessels of the lower extremities, and in 1676 R. Weissman (surgeon-sergeant to the British King Charles II) established that dilation of the veins could be a consequence of valve insufficiency. At the same time, compression stockings were first used to treat patients with chronic venous insufficiency. In 1868, I. Ge and A. Spender independently revealed that trophic ulcers can be a consequence of deep vein thrombosis.

Causes and Effects

Today we are well aware that chronic venous insufficiency is a consequence of a violation of the outflow of blood from the veins of the lower extremities and an inevitable companion of a person, our retribution for walking upright. However, what contributes to this? In order to explain this phenomenon, there are many theories. According to the first, this is facilitated by hemodynamic disturbances and insufficiency of the valves of the venous system. The pressure of blood from the arteries, the contraction of the leg muscles during movement and the presence of valves in the veins prevent the blood from flowing back. It is believed that it is the inability of these valves to perform their function that causes disruption of venous blood flow, leads to overstretching of the veins, and an increase in the lumen of the vein further aggravates the functioning of the valve, which can no longer completely close it. The downward flow of blood increases, and stagnation occurs with thrombosis and swelling.

According to the second theory, chronic venous insufficiency develops due to the fact that blood flow is obstructed by emerging blood clots, the formation of which is facilitated by changes in the vascular wall, disturbances in the blood coagulation system and slowing of blood flow.

Those who support the third theory believe that chronic venous insufficiency develops due to congenital weakness of the elements of the venous wall. According to the fourth, the main cause of the development of chronic venous insufficiency is neuroendocrine disorders, the fifth is immunological disorders and allergic reactions.

However, be that as it may, varicose veins of the lower extremities are by no means a harmless disease. And it creates not only cosmetic problems: congestive dermatitis and hyperpigmentation of the skin due to impaired trophism, swelling and constant fatigue of the legs, which affects not only our gait, but also our mood and performance, not to mention bruises, and subsequently intractable and difficult-to-heal trophic ulcers. So is it worth waiting for all these “delights” or is it better (to paraphrase the words of the Roman commander) to say that the future complications and the pain experienced are worth the treatment? Moreover, now we have access to means that can quite simply, painlessly and effectively help us with this, and this is the season when it is so important to take care of the beauty of our feet.

Make a choice

What is necessary for this assistance to be effective, and for your feet to be rewarded with a pair of new shoes or to be shown without embarrassment, modestly peeking out from under your skirt? Just the right remedy that will help get rid of the purple mesh on the feet, bruises and swelling, which will also worsen with the arrival of the summer heat, and at the same time the dry skin that accompanies varicose veins of the lower extremities. And all this - !

What allows us to make a choice in favor of this drug? Of course, first of all, these are properties heparin, which is the active ingredient of this product. Thanks to heparin, LYOTON 1000 GEL provides not only an increase in the tone of the vein wall and improves lymphatic drainage, such as troxerutin or horse chestnut-based products. Due to its direct anticoagulant properties, heparin has a positive effect on the rheological properties of blood. It reduces its viscosity, promotes the “resorption” of blood clots, binds and inactivates biologically active substances that damage the endothelium. It also reduces the ability of the endothelium to adsorb blood clots, inhibits the pathogenic effect of platelet factors, and restores the potential of cell membranes.

The anticoagulant effect of heparin is not its only merit in the fight against bruises and spider veins. It blocks many enzymes (for example, plasmin, trypsin, hyaluronidase) and inflammatory mediators, reduces the number of platelets and activates macrophages. Thanks to this, heparin is known for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties and reduces the severity of pain.

However, the therapeutic effect of LYOTON 1000 GEL depends not only on the properties of heparin, but also on its concentration, as well as the ability to easily overcome skin barriers due to its gel form.

Thus, LIOTON 1000 GEL contains 1000 IU of heparin per 1 g of gel, which is several times higher compared to other similar heparin preparations for topical use. Due to this, a high diffusion pressure is achieved, which determines a high concentration of the drug in tissues, as well as its higher absorption compared to forms containing 500 IU per 1 g (Stüttgen G., Panse P., Bauer E., 1990).

And the gel form itself ensures good penetration of heparin through the skin into soft tissues, which deserves no less attention. Thus, the previously used fatty bases (pork fat or petroleum jelly) were devoid of osmotic activity, which means they practically did not absorb exudate and released medicinal substances very poorly, and favorable conditions were created on the skin for the development of microorganisms. With the advent of polyethylene oxide bases, high efficiency of drugs was achieved, but their diffusion was predominantly unidirectional. Such products absorbed liquid too well, which often led to tissue dehydration and local irritation. Finally, the emerging form, such as a gel, allows not only to easily and more completely release medicinal substances, but also to actively transfer them through the skin to those lesions that require treatment, taking with them exudate, dead cells and microorganisms. LYOTON 1000 GEL was created on such an alcohol-water gel base. It significantly surpasses heparin-containing ointments in terms of characteristics and ensures better penetration of heparin into the corresponding layers of the skin (Zesch A., 1976), and, having a high content of active substance, contributes to an even more rapid achievement of high concentrations of heparin in soft tissues (Stüttgen G., Panse P ., Bauer E., 1990).

...Hurries to our aid

Who can benefit from LIOTON 1000 GEL? For those who are concerned about diseases of the superficial veins, such as chronic venous insufficiency and related complications (phlebothrombosis, thrombophlebitis, trophic ulcers); consequences of previous operations, in the presence of bruises and inflammation, as well as injuries and bruises, subcutaneous hematomas and sprains. Thanks to its properties, LIOTON 1000 GEL helps to gradually suppress pain (in 90% of patients), reduce the severity of edema (86%) and the size of the seals (80%), a feeling of heaviness, as well as erythema (Navrátilová Z. et al., 2000; Bihari I., 2001; Daroczy J., 2002).

Of course, all this could not go unnoticed either by specialists, who have been widely recommending LIOTON 1000 GEL for many years, or by the patients themselves. For the convenience of the latter, at the beginning of 2011, the Berlin-Chemie company introduced an additional 30 g package to the previously existing packaging of the drug. This means that LYOTON 1000 GEL has become even more convenient to take with you on trips, in case of unforeseen injuries and bruises, which are not uncommon during work on personal plots, the season of which has just started or during a short active rest during the May holidays.

Chronic venous insufficiency- the disease is far from seasonal. However, it is with the beginning of spring that most of those who are concerned about this problem realize that the capillary network and blue swollen veins are so unaesthetic!

That is why at the beginning of 2011, for the convenience of patients, in addition to the already existing LIOTON 1000 GEL 50 g, the Berlin-Chemie company introduced another form to the pharmaceutical market of Ukraine - LIOTON 1000 GEL 30 g. This helped the LIOTON 1000 GEL brand as a whole in the summer of 2011 d. demonstrate an increase in the volume of pharmacy sales, both in monetary and in kind terms (Fig. 1 and 2). LIOTON 1000 GEL is not far behind in 2012. Thus, according to the results of the first quarter. this year, the volume of retail sales of this brand showed active dynamics, increasing by 25% compared to the same period of the previous year! (Fig. 3) At the same time, the volume of pharmacy sales of the competitive group (C05B “Medicines used for varicose veins” and C05C “Capillary stabilizing agents”) during the same period decreased by 4% (Fig. 4). Such a positive trend demonstrated by the LIOTON 1000 GEL brand allows us to look optimistically at its future and call its market tomorrow promising.


Pain in the knee joint is a very unpleasant symptom that accompanies a variety of diseases. Discomfort in the knee area can significantly reduce quality of life. Why does the knee joint hurt and how can you cope with such a problem?

Possible reasons

Why do my knees hurt? Anyone who has ever experienced pain in the knee joint is looking for the answer to this question. Unpleasant sensations can be localized on the front surface of the knee or behind it, and also cover the entire joint, as if in a vice. The pain may be stabbing or aching, increasing with movement, bending and straightening the leg. Possible swelling of the skin around the joint, the appearance of a hematoma or rash. All these symptoms are based on various causes of the disease.

What can cause knee pain:

  • arthrosis;
  • arthritis;
  • periarthritis;
  • meniscopathies;
  • infectious diseases;
  • injuries;
  • tumors and cysts;
  • circulatory disorders;
  • neuralgia.

All these reasons can cause sudden or chronic pain in the knee area. Each disease has its own characteristic features that make it possible to distinguish one pathology from another. Treatment of diseases will also differ depending on the cause that triggered the development of knee pain.

Arthrosis

The causes of pain in the knee joint very often lie in the destruction of its cartilage. This phenomenon is called gonarthrosis. The pathology most often occurs in people over 40 years of age suffering from various chronic diseases. Recently, there has been a clear trend towards rejuvenation of arthrosis.

Gonarthrosis does not occur overnight. The disease develops gradually over several years. At first, mild knee pain occurs when walking, climbing stairs, or standing. Over time, the pain intensifies and swelling of the joint appears. If the causes of the disease are not found and treatment is not started, arthrosis can lead to significant deformation of the organ and limited mobility in the knee joint.

Treatment of arthrosis involves the use of drugs that improve blood supply to the joint and restore cartilage. For severe knee pain, a short course of analgesics is prescribed. In case of severe joint deformation, surgical treatment (endoprosthetics) is performed.

Arthritis

If pain in the knee joint occurs at rest, worsens at night, and does not improve with changes in body position, you should think about arthritis.

What are the reasons for the development of inflammation in a joint?

  • Rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Rheumatism.
  • Gout.
  • Psoriasis.
  • Ankylosing spondylitis.

With arthritis, the knees hurt as if on their own, for no apparent reason. When bending or straightening the knee, the intensity of the pain practically does not change. Noticeable swelling appears and the skin over the joint turns red. In most cases, there is simultaneous damage to several groups of joints.

If you experience joint pain, do not self-medicate and consult a doctor.

Treatment for arthritis includes taking analgesics and drugs that affect the immune system. Methods of physiotherapy, as well as physical therapy, are also actively used. If treatment is started in a timely manner, pain in the joint can be forgotten for quite a long time.

Periarthritis

This term includes bursitis, synovitis and other lesions of the periarticular tissue. Severe swelling appears, the skin over the affected organ changes color. There is severe pain in the knee when walking. The causes of periarthritis are similar to the factors that provoke inflammation of the articular cartilage. It is also possible to develop synovitis and bursitis against the background of autoimmune processes in the body, after injuries and hypothermia.

If knee pain occurs when bending or climbing stairs, inflammation of the knee tendons should be suspected. In this case, the pain does not spread to the entire knee, but is located at one point on the inside of the leg. Swelling and redness of the skin are not typical for this pathology.

Meniscopathies

Damage to the menisci is one of the common causes of knee discomfort. The disease usually occurs after a previous injury. When you hit or fall on your knee, you hear a characteristic crunch, followed by severe pain. Knee pain when bending persists for two weeks, after which all symptoms subside. The appearance of swelling and redness of the skin at the site of injury is very typical.

If you suspect a meniscus injury, go to the emergency room.

If the disease is not treated correctly from the very beginning, its consequences can last a lifetime. Knee pain may recur at any time when walking, standing or climbing stairs. Joint deformation is not typical with meniscopathy. A change in cartilage occurs only if gonarthrosis develops against the background of a meniscus injury.

Injuries

Among all knee injuries, the most common are ligament and cartilage injuries. Fractures of the bones that make up the articular surface, as well as dislocations, are possible. Pain in the knees due to injury occurs suddenly, accompanied by swelling and decreased mobility of the limb. A sharp increase in size of the joint is possible due to the effusion of synovial fluid at the time of injury. A characteristic sign of traumatic injury is hematoma - an accumulation of blood in soft tissues.

Cysts and tumors

Cysts and various tumors are quite common causes of discomfort in the knee joint. Of all neoplasms, surgeons most often have to deal with Baker's cyst. This round-shaped formation is located in the popliteal fossa and causes noticeable discomfort to the patient. Baker's cyst is characterized by pain in the knee joint during movement. The cyst itself is clearly visible when the knee is extended and almost completely disappears when it is flexed. This sign makes it possible to distinguish Baker's cyst from many other neoplasms in the popliteal fossa. Treatment consists of removing the cyst using arthroscopic or classical access.

Circulatory disorders

If a young man’s knee hurts when walking, you should not immediately look for a serious pathology. In adolescents under 18 years of age, knee pain may be associated with a period of active growth. During this time, vascular development may not keep pace with bone growth. Pain occurs, always bilateral, intensifying with exercise and hypothermia. Painful sensations can make themselves felt even with a simple change in weather or after suffering stress.

There is no special treatment for temporary circulatory disorders. Such discomfort can be easily relieved with warming ointments and self-massage. Often, knee pain associated with the growth of blood vessels goes away on its own after a short rest.

Neuralgia

The causes of pain in the legs may be associated with diseases of the spine. Osteochondrosis and intervertebral hernia are common sources of pain in the knee area. If your knees hurt when squatting, you should look for the cause of the discomfort in the lumbar spine. Probably, a nerve was pinched there or inflammation developed at the origin of the roots. A neurologist can make an accurate diagnosis after a targeted examination of the patient.

Treatment of neuralgia includes taking anti-inflammatory drugs, exercises and massage. Good effects have been seen from manual therapy and acupuncture. For severe pain, novocaine blockades are performed.

Infectious diseases

Some pathogens can trigger the development of reactive arthritis. An example is Lyme disease. The infection enters the blood after a tick bite and spreads throughout the body. Chills occur, body temperature rises, and painful sensations appear in the muscles and joints. If your knees hurt due to fever, you should definitely see a doctor and rule out an infectious disease.

An infectious disease specialist together with a rheumatologist should treat bacterial and viral joint damage. Antibacterial and antiviral drugs are prescribed, as well as agents that stimulate the immune system. For severe pain, analgesics are used. After the symptoms of the disease subside, massage and exercise therapy are recommended.

What to do?

Knee pain is a reason to definitely consult a doctor. There is no single treatment regimen for all diseases. The knee should be treated only after the cause of the pain has been determined. To do this, an x-ray or ultrasound of the affected organ must be done. If necessary, the doctor can perform a computer or magnetic resonance imaging scan to rule out tumors and other serious diseases.

Of course, such a wait-and-see approach is only good when the knee pain can be tolerated. But what if your knees hurt very badly? What to do to relieve acute pain?

  • Load reduction.

The first thing to do is to remove stress from the affected leg. In case of acute pain, you need to fix the knee, ensuring complete immobility, and immediately call a doctor. Perhaps behind the severe pain lies a fracture or dislocation. With moderate pain, it is enough to simply reduce physical activity and not put unnecessary strain on the knee.

  • Bandage.

If your knee hurts when bending or while walking, you should consider purchasing a bandage. A special bandage will not only eliminate discomfort, but also help reduce the load on the leg. Treatment of many pathologies of the knee joint involves long-term wearing of a bandage until all symptoms of the disease subside.

  • Cold.

Under no circumstances should you treat knee injuries with warm compresses. In many pathologies, the use of heat can cause deterioration and progression of the disease. It is best to apply cold (ice wrapped in gauze) to the knee. A cold compress will relieve acute pain, reduce swelling and significantly alleviate the condition for a while.

Knowing why your knee hurts, you can take all the necessary measures to eliminate the discomfort. You need to act carefully, because not all diseases can be treated at home. If the treatment started does not bring the desired effect, you should definitely consult a doctor.