musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders
Neurogenic Arthropathy
Treatment of Neurogenic Arthropathy
Treatment of cause Sometimes surgery Treatment of the underlying neurologic condition may slow progression of the arthropathy and, if joint destruction is still in the early stages, partially reverse the process. Early diagnosis of asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic fractures facilitates early treatment; stabilization (with splints, special boots, or calipers) protects the joint from further injury, possibly stopping disease evolution. Stabilization may even prevent neurogenic arthropathy in a patient at risk. For a grossly disorganized joint, arthrodesis using internal fixation, compression, and an adequate bone graft may be successful. For grossly disorganized hip and knee joints, if neurogenic arthropathy is not expected to be progressive, good results can be obtained with total hip and knee replacements. However, loosening and dislocation of the prosthesis are major hazards. 