Good day, dear readers!
In today's article we will consider such a disease of the spine as osteochondrosis, as well as its symptoms, causes, types, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.So...
What is osteochondrosis?
Osteochondrosis– a disease of the spine, the characteristic of which is the degenerative-dystrophic damage of the intervertebral discs, and then of the vertebral tissues themselves.
The main symptom of osteochondrosis is pain in the neck or back.Other symptoms include muscle atrophy, sensory disturbances, and disturbances in the functioning of internal organs.Depending on the location of the pathological process, they distinguish between cervical, thoracic and lumbar osteochondrosis.If this disease and its treatment are not given the necessary attention, the process of damage to the spine will become irreversible.
In the English-language literature, the term "osteochondrosis" refers to a group of diseases of the musculoskeletal system such as osteochondropathy.
The main factor or reason that leads to the development of osteochondrosis is the uneven distribution of the load on the spine, which occurs when you carry heavy items in one hand or shoulder (for example, a bag, a backpack), prolonged standing in the wrong position, night rest on an uneven mattress or pillow.Additional factors may also include a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, injuries and flat feet.
All of the above situations lead to frequent pain in the cervical, thoracic or sacral spine over the years.
According to statistics, osteochondrosis occurs in 40 to 90% of the world's population, mainly at the age of 30-35.In unfavorable conditions, this disease develops in teenagers, which is most often facilitated by wearing a heavy, uncomfortable backpack, especially on one shoulder, uncomfortable shoes and injuries.
Development of osteochondrosis
The development of osteochondrosis occurs in 4 separate stages (grades):
Stage 1 of osteochondrosis.It is characterized by the beginning of a pathological process in the nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc - its dehydration (dehydration) occurs, and then the height of the disc decreases.At the same time, cracks begin to appear in the fibrous ring.At this stage, the patient usually does not feel any changes.Discomfort can occur when sitting in a sitting position that is unusual for a person, or when actively exercising.
Stage 2 of osteochondrosis.As the height of the discs decreases, the distance between adjacent vertebrae also decreases, and the spinal muscles and ligaments begin to sag slightly.This process causes hypermobility of the two adjacent vertebrae, which can lead to their slipping and/or displacement.Spondylolisthesis is formed.Due to the displaced vertebrae, the patient, under a certain load, feels real discomfort and sometimes pain in the area of pathology.
Stage 3 of osteochondrosis.It is characterized by the formation of disc prolapses and protrusions, sometimes subluxations and arthrosis occur in the intervertebral joints.The patient may feel stiffness in some movements, tingling in the limbs, and sometimes numbness appears.With the third degree of osteochondrosis, there is already pain in the back, neck and tail area, depending on the location of the disease.
Stage 4 of osteochondrosis.The body is trying to correct the excessive mobility of the vertebrae, as well as to normalize the functioning of the spine.At the intersection of vertebrae with pathology, new bone formations grow in each of them - osteophytes, which, when formed in an unnecessary place, can cause microtrauma to the nerve root, and sometimes to the neighboring vertebra.Fibrous ankylosis can start in the discs and joints.The vertebral-motor segment becomes overcrowded and becomes, so to speak, walled off.In this case, the main signs of osteochondrosis are minimized, and sometimes even practically not visible.
Symptoms of osteochondrosis
The main symptoms of osteochondrosis are discomfort and pain in the back or neck.The severity of pain and other accompanying signs of this disease depend on the degree (stage) of osteochondrosis.
Of course, due to the pathology of the intervertebral discs, their herniation, growths in the vertebrae (osteophytes), a large number of disorders occur, such as blood circulation disorders, pinched nerves, irritations and disturbances in the normal functioning of the spinal cord, swelling and even fibrosis of the structures of the surrounding vertebrae.All these disorders can cause a wide clinical picture of the disease and express themselves with a large number of different symptoms, therefore, without a complete diagnosis of osteochondrosis, it is very difficult to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe adequate treatment.
However, let's consider the main symptoms of osteochondrosis:
- pain in the back, cervical region, lower back, shoulders and even ribs;
- discomfort, stiffness of the back during certain movements, lifting something;
- numbness of the extremities (arms and/or legs);
- feeling of pain in the arms and legs, chills;
- muscle spasm;
- disorders in the functioning of the genital organs;
- headache, dizziness;
- pain in the heart area;
- sensory disturbance;
- muscle hypotension;
- increased fatigue, sometimes even in the eyes.
In addition, depending on the area of the spine affected by osteochondrosis, the following symptoms are distinguished:
Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine.Pains in the arms and shoulders, headaches, dizziness, spots or spots before the eyes and noises in the head predominate.These signs can also indicate the presence of vertebral artery syndrome, which can also cause complications in the functioning of the heart muscle and myocardial vessels if other diseases are present in them.
Osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine.Pain in the chest, in the area of the heart and breathing problems predominate.
Osteochondrosis of the lumbosacral spine.Pain prevails in the lower back, which radiates to the legs or pelvic organs.Sexual dysfunction.
Complications of osteochondrosis
If osteochondrosis is not treated and left to fate, it can lead to the development of the following diseases and pathologies:
- intervertebral disc herniation (spinal hernia);
- extension;
- kyphosis;
- radiculitis;
- deposition of salts in the intervertebral space;
- spinal cord injury;
- loss of weight of limbs and their atrophy;
- paralysis of the leg
Causes of osteochondrosis
The causes of osteochondrosis are not fully understood, so let's consider the most well-known of them:
- mechanical injury to the back (back);
- physical overload of the body, hard work;
- nervous fatigue, stress;
- metabolic disorders, poisoning;
- frequent stay in places with increased vibrations;
- hereditary predisposition;
- sedentary lifestyle, sedentary work;
- poor posture at a young age;
- overweight, overweight;
- flat feet;
- wearing uncomfortable shoes (tight, heels);
- night rest in an uncomfortable bed - mattress, pillow;
- frequent dehydration;
- malnutrition, hypovitaminosis;
- smoking;
- pregnancy.
Classification of osteochondrosis
The classification of osteochondrosis is very diverse, because the disease itself is not fully understood.
Let's single out the most popular methods of dividing this disease.
I distinguish osteochondrosis:
By location:
- Cervical region ©
- Thoracic (Th or D)
- Lumbar (L)
- sacral region (S)
According to clinical manifestations:
1. Cervical level ©.
1.1.Reflex syndromes.
- cervicalgia;
- cervicocranialgia;
- cervicobrachialgia with vegetative-vascular, neurodystrophic or muscle-tonal manifestations.
1.2.Radicular syndromes.
- Discogenic lesion of the roots of the cervical spine.
1.3.Radicular-vascular syndromes.
2. Thoracic level (Th or D).
2.1.Reflex syndromes.
- thoracalgia with vegetative-visceral, neurodystrophic or muscle-tonal manifestations.
2.2.Radicular syndromes.
- Discogenic lesion of the thoracic roots.
3. Lumbosacral level (L, S).
3.1.Reflex syndromes.
- lumbago (lumbago);
- lumbodynia;
- lumboischialgia with vegetative-vascular, neurodystrophic or muscle-tonal manifestations.
3.2.Radicular syndromes.
- Discogenic damage to the roots of the lumbosacral region.
3.3.Vascular radicular syndromes – radiculoischemia.
Diagnosis of osteochondrosis
The diagnosis of osteochondrosis includes the following examination methods:
- anamnesis;
- X-ray examination (X-ray);
- myelography;
- neurological examination.
In addition, they can assign:
- computed tomography (CT);
- nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR);
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Treatment of osteochondrosis
The treatment of osteochondrosis involves the use of a series of measures that must be carried out over a rather long period of time (from 1-3 months + about 1 year for rehabilitation), to which many patients react very vaguely.Therefore, it should be emphasized that, indirectly following the recommendations of the attending physician, the prognosis for the patient's recovery is minimal.
Self-medication often becomes an additional problem in the treatment of osteochondrosis.The fact is that, as already written earlier in the article, the clinical picture with this disease is quite vague and extensive.The patient, without a diagnosis, begins to select medications for what hurts and, eliminating the pain, continues to do his daily life, while the disease continues to progress.
Important!Timely consultation with a doctor, a complete health diagnosis and strict adherence to all recommendations of the attending physician increase a positive prognosis for recovery!
Treatment of osteochondrosis is carried out with two main methods: conservative and surgical treatment.In addition, there are general recommendations for the treatment of osteochondrosis, such as diet and rehabilitation.
Conservative treatment of osteochondrosis
Conservative treatment of osteochondrosis is aimed at relieving pain, normalizing the functioning of the spine and its components, as well as preventing further degenerative changes in the human "axis".
Conservative treatment of osteochondrosis includes:
Drug therapy.It is used to relieve pain and inflammation of the tissues that make up the spine, as well as to normalize metabolic processes.
Various therapeutic blockades are also used to relieve pain and inflammation.In addition, they help reduce muscle-tonic syndrome.Among the therapeutic blockades are: trigger point blockades, as well as intraosseous, fascial, paravertebral and epidural blockades.
Physiotherapy.It is used to relieve pain, to increase the effectiveness of drug therapy and during the rehabilitation period.The treatment is carried out using ultrasound, laser, magnetic fields, low-frequency currents, etc.
Physical therapy (physiotherapy), kinesitherapy.Specially selected exercises with a dose aimed at correcting the muscle corset, strengthening it, correcting posture, normalizing the functioning of muscle tissues and their flexibility, decompressing nerve roots and preventing possible complications of the disease.All of the above is achieved by normalizing the metabolism and nutrition of the intervertebral discs, blood circulation, restoring the distance between the discs and vertebrae, and distributing the load throughout the musculoskeletal system.
Massage.It is used to improve blood circulation, relieve stiffness and tension in muscle tissue and improve general health.
Hydromassage.It helps to normalize blood circulation, metabolism, increase the tone of muscle tissue and normalize the functioning of the nervous system.It involves massaging the body using a targeted stream of water at a certain pressure.True, in recent years hydromassage has prevailed with the help of air bubbles applied to the body in specially equipped baths or pools.
Manual therapy.It is used according to an individually selected program, targeting the musculoskeletal system.It helps improve blood and lymph circulation, metabolism, mobility of the musculoskeletal system, strengthening the immune system and preventing possible complications.
Extension (retraction) of the spine.It is used with the help of special equipment to increase the intervertebral space and correct the structure of the spine, which usually leads to the minimization or complete removal of pain.
The combined use of the above methods for the treatment of osteochondrosis has a good effect.
Medicines for osteochondrosis
Among the remedies for osteochondrosis are:
- Anti-inflammatory medications.
- Antispasmodics.
- Antioxidants:vitamin C, vitamin E.
- Stimulators of blood microcirculation.
- Means for preventing further degeneration of cartilage tissue.
Diet for osteochondrosis
For osteochondrosis, you should eat 6 times a day, in small portions, drinking at least 1.5 liters of water a day.
What can you eat with osteochondrosis:dairy products, lean meat (chicken, beef), jelly, fish with jelly, meat with jelly, fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, carrots, beets, peppers, cabbage, celery, broccoli), fruits, avocados, nuts, sunflower seeds, mushrooms, spinach.
What should be minimized in the diet for osteochondrosis:grapes, legumes (peas, beans, etc.), flour products, hot spices, sugar, salty foods, broths and smoked meats.
It is better to cook food in steam, because... With this method of preparation, the products preserve the maximum amount of vitamins and microelements.
Try to taste the salads with olive oil.
Surgical treatment of osteochondrosis
Surgical treatment of osteochondrosis is used when the conservative method is ineffective.Prescribed by the attending physician or a board of physicians.It can also be used for severe injuries to the spine and its components.
Treatment of osteochondrosis with folk remedies
Important!Before treating osteochondrosis at home with folk remedies, be sure to consult your doctor!
Treatment of osteochondrosis with herbal preparations
Comment from herbalist A.A.Malgin: herbal treatment (herbal medicine) has some wonderful advantages, for example:
- herbal medicine eliminates the causes of disease,
- herbs have a minimal number of contraindications (usually individual intolerance),
- herbal treatment has minimal side effects,
- herbs contain a large number of vitamins and other useful substances, which, in addition to treating the disease, also contribute to the health of the organism as a whole,
- affordability.
Herbalists offer ready-made solutions that already take into account the specific composition of the collection, dosage, sequence, etc.The courses are conducted by medical specialists based on their many years of experience.
Other folk remedies against osteochondrosis
Dough.Prepare some dough from 300 grams of rye flour and let it stand at room temperature for a few days.Drink a glass of milk and rub the area where your back hurts with turpentine.Then wrap the dough in gauze and apply it to the injured area.Wrap with cellophane on top and then with a scarf or towel.After a while, you may feel a burning and tingling sensation in the area, but bear with it as long as you can.Do the procedure every other day.Use each batch of dough no more than 3 times.
Sabelnik.Make a tincture of lentil leaves.Before going to bed, rub the area where your back hurts with the prepared solution and tie a scarf around it.In addition, you can take the tincture of the comb a few drops before going to bed.
Ointment for osteochondrosis.Add 1 tablespoon to the bowl.a spoon of flour, 1 egg, 100 g of butter and 1 tbsp.a spoonful of vinegar, mix everything thoroughly and put in a dark place for 2 days to infuse.Then skim off any foam that has formed from the mixture.Mix the mixture well again and apply the resulting ointment to the injured area.
Radish.Mix 300 ml of radish juice, 200 g of honey and 100 ml of vodka.Rub the resulting mixture on your back.This popular remedy also helps with radiculitis and rheumatism.
Prevention of osteochondrosis
To prevent pathological changes in the spine, follow these recommendations:
- lead an active lifestyle - swim, run, do morning exercises, ride a bike;
- watch your posture during sitting work - keep your back straight and keep your shoulders relaxed;
- perform work sitting only in comfortable chairs, armchairs that can provide support for the spine;
- when you work sitting, periodically do exercises and warm up;
- sleep on a comfortable (orthopedic) mattress, pillow;
- try to avoid carrying heavy objects and if you do, lift them slowly;
- do exercises to maintain excellent condition and pump up the abdominal muscles;
- wear comfortable shoes, avoid wearing heels, especially during pregnancy;
- try to eat food enriched with vitamins and trace elements.
Which doctor should I consult for osteochondrosis?
- Vertebrologist;
- Neurologist;
- Osteopath;
- Orthopedist.