Osteochondrosis is a term used to denote a group of diseases associated with degenerative and dystrophic changes in the structures of the spine. First of all, the intervertebral discs and, with the development of the disease, the vertebrae themselves suffer. Degenerative are the changes associated with the processes of tissue wear, aging, loss of original properties and dystrophic changes caused by nutritional disorders of the tissues. The term osteochondrosis thus unites most diseases of the spine of a non-inflammatory nature.
The spine forms the backbone of the skeleton and connects the different parts of the skeletal system. It supports the head, ribs and muscles are attached to it. The spinal cord runs through the spine, which connects the brain to different parts of our body. Humans are the only two-legged creatures in the world, and the spine is designed for two-legged locomotion. Therefore, the spine has a curved shape, reminiscent of the letter S of the Latin alphabet, and is not a rigid rod, but a complex structure consisting of interconnected elements - vertebrae. This structure of the spine allows us to perform various movements, be flexible, and absorb shocks and bumps. The function of shock absorbers is performed by intervertebral discs - layers of cartilage that consist of the nucleus pulposus and the annulus fibrosus surrounding it. The core picks up and absorbs the load, and the annulus fibrosus prevents the core from flattening under pressure.
Decreasing elasticity of the intervertebral discs can be the beginning of a variety of problems. The intervertebral discs cannot withstand the load, the intervertebral discs begin to deform, the spine loses its correct shape. The progression of the disease leads to further destruction of the intervertebral discs, the fibrous ring breaks, the vertebrae come into hard contact with each other, the nerves that connect the spinal cord to different parts of the body can become pinched. This is how osteochondrosis develops. Intervertebral hernias appear and inflammation often develops. Without shock absorption, the vertebrae can flatten and their joints together form scar and bone growths.
Osteochondrosis is one of the most common diseases. Only cardiovascular diseases are more common. It is estimated that every second person on earth suffers from osteochondrosis. Osteochondrosis is more common in women, but in men, on average, its manifestations are more painful.
What is osteochondrosis?
Osteochondrosis affects different parts of the spine. Depending on which department suffered the most, there are:
- lumbar osteochondrosis - occurs most often;
- cervical - second in "popularity";
- sacred;
- Chest;
- widespread osteochondrosis, in which several parts of the spine are affected at the same time;
- Cross pathologies (lumbosacral or cervicothoracic).
Causes of Osteochondrosis
The causes of osteochondrosis are very diverse.
First, with age, the elasticity of the intervertebral discs is gradually lost. This means that our back needs special attention. Prolonged exposure to a position that causes the spine to tilt can cause irreversible changes. Avoid sitting in an asymmetrical position, combat the habit of only lying on one side, carry a load (e. g.
A sedentary lifestyle is detrimental to the health of the spine. Exercise is necessary, but physical activity should be moderate. The spine should be given a chance to recover from the strain and it is also advisable to avoid injuries, which also lead to the development of spinal diseases.
The second group of reasons is related to metabolic disorders and malnutrition. Food rich in carbohydrates and fat saturates the body with calories that we often simply cannot afford in our sedentary city life; This stores energy in the form of adipose tissue, which leads to obesity. Obesity is an increased load on the spine that leads to the development of osteochondrosis. In addition, such a diet usually contains too few trace elements (calcium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese and others), which are so necessary for strengthening the bone tissue. Obesity is often caused by endocrine diseases. At the same time, a violation of the energy, water or mineral metabolism can also negatively affect the tissues involved in the structure of the spine.
Factors that contribute to the development of osteochondrosis can include:
- Flat feet;
- hormonal changes;
- Infectious diseases;
- local circulatory disorders,
as well as several other factors.
Symptoms of osteochondrosis
In the initial stage of osteochondrosis, there are no pronounced symptoms. The development of osteochondrosis can be assumed in:
- dull pain in the back (in the area of the affected area of the spine);
- Heaviness in the back, constant tension in the muscles of the spine;
- Numbness of muscles, the appearance of "goose bumps". In such cases it is usually said that "the back is numb";
- Crunching when turning the body and neck;
- Headache, dizziness, tinnitus (typically with cervical osteochondrosis);
- painful chest pain (typically with thoracic osteochondrosis).
The first time such symptoms appear, it is advisable to have a neurologist examine you.
The further development of the disease is manifested in symptoms that bring significant discomfort:
Back pain
There is severe pain in the back (along the spine). The pain can radiate into the limbs.
Numbness in the fingers
A typical manifestation of osteochondrosis is numbness in the fingers and toes.
Restriction of motor activity
Even with little physical exertion, the pain increases (e. g. due to trembling and shaking during transport trips). The pain leads to considerable limitations in mobility and motor skills.
Methods of diagnosing osteochondrosis
The main role in the diagnosis of osteochondrosis is played by instrumental studies: radiography, computed tomography, MRI.
It may be necessary to confirm that the symptoms observed are not caused by other medical conditions. For differential diagnosis, a general and biochemical blood test, a general urine test, and ultrasound examinations of internal organs are carried out.
Spine X-ray
The problem areas of the spine will be x-rayed. The department to be examined is determined based on the patient's complaints.
Computed tomography (CT)
Computed tomography (MSCT) makes it possible to obtain a more meaningful picture of pathological processes and to determine their severity. In particular, the MSCT enables the detection of a herniated disc.
Computed tomography is performed when the X-ray data is insufficient.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
MRI is the most informative method for diagnosing osteochondrosis. In some cases (for example, if osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is suspected), an MRI cannot be avoided. Magnetic resonance tomography enables the visualization of cartilage and soft tissues, with the aid of which it is possible to localize the source of the problem as precisely as possible and to determine the cause of the disease.
Treatment methods of osteochondrosis
It is advisable to start treatment for osteochondrosis as early as possible, since pathological changes in the spine are, in most cases, irreversible. Therefore, the primary aim of treatment is to eliminate pain and prevent further development of the disease.
The course of treatment is usually complex and is prescribed individually depending on the patient's condition. The clinic uses to treat osteochondrosis:
Medication
First of all, treatment is aimed at stopping (eliminating) the pain syndrome. Anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants (drugs that relax muscles) are used.
In the treatment of osteochondrosis, drugs to improve blood circulation, chondoprotectors (drugs that restore cartilage tissue), vitamin D, and calcium supplements are also used.
massage
Massage for osteochondrosis relieves muscle tone, stimulates blood circulation in the spine and improves metabolic processes. This is used to strengthen the vertebrae and intervertebral discs, suppress inflammation, and relieve pain.
physical therapy
With osteochondrosis, such methods of physical therapy as electrophoresis, phonophoresis, UHF, magnetic therapy are used.
Reflexology
As an additional therapeutic method, foot reflexology is used for osteochondrosis. Acupuncture helps relieve pain, reduce inflammation, normalize blood circulation, and increase the effects of the drugs used.
physical therapy
Physiotherapy for osteochondrosis is primarily aimed at eliminating pain and restoring mobility to the spine. A number of specially selected exercises are used.
Prevention of osteochondrosis
For the prevention of osteochondrosis, the clinic's doctors recommend:
- maintain correct posture. Posture is the usual posture when standing. Ideally, the head and back are at the same height, the shoulders are at the same height, the stomach is drawn in and the chest is raised. The habit of the body is developed through movement, so posture must be monitored - not crooked or limp;
- lead an active lifestyle, do gymnastics;
- it is useful to hang on a horizontal bar - while the spine is stretched;
- sleep on a hard mattress. It is advisable to buy an orthopedic mattress and an orthopedic pillow;
- Follow a balanced diet and eat foods that contain adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals.