Osteochondrosis is a concept used to denote a group of diseases associated with degenerative and dystrophic changes in the structures of the spinal column. First of all, the intervertebral discs suffer, and with the development of the disease, the vertebrae themselves. 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. Therefore, the term osteochondrosis unites most of the pathologies of the spine of a non-inflammatory nature.
The vertebral column forms the backbone of the skeleton, connecting the various parts of the skeletal system. It supports the head, the ribs and the muscles are attached to it. The spinal cord passes through the spine, through which the brain is connected to various parts of our body. Man is the only bipedal creature in the world and the spine is designed to provide bipedal 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 elements fixed together - the vertebrae. This structure of the spine allows us to make various movements, be flexible and absorb shocks and shocks. The function of the shock absorbers is carried out by the intervertebral discs - cartilaginous layers consisting of the nucleus pulposus and the fibrous ring that surrounds it. The core takes the load and absorbs it and the fibrous ring prevents the core from flattening out under pressure.
A decrease in the elasticity of the intervertebral discs can become the beginning of a wide range of problems. Unable to 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 close contact with each other, it becomes possible to pinch the nerves connecting the spinal cord with various parts of the body. This is how osteochondrosis develops. Intervertebral hernias occur and inflammation often develops. Deprived of shock absorption, the vertebrae can flatten and together their joints form scar and bony growths.
Osteochondrosis is one of the most common diseases. Only cardiovascular diseases are more common. According to some estimates, every second inhabitant of the planet suffers from osteochondrosis. Osteochondrosis is more common in women, but in men its manifestations are, on average, more painful.
What is osteochondrosirosis
Osteochondrosis affects various parts of the spine. Depending on the ward that suffered the most, there are:
- lumbar osteochondrosis - occurs more often;
- cervical - ranks second in "popularity";
- sacral;
- chest;
- diffuse 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 quite diverse.
First, with age, the elasticity of the intervertebral discs is gradually lost. This means that our back needs special attention. Prolonged stay in a position that causes the spine to tilt can cause irreversible changes. You should avoid sitting in an asymmetrical position, fight the habit of lying on one side only, carry a load (for example, a bag) in one hand.
A sedentary lifestyle has a detrimental effect on the health of the spine. It is necessary to move, however, physical activity should be moderate. The spine should have the opportunity to recover from the load, and it is also advisable to avoid injuries that also lead to the development of spinal pathologies.
The second group of reasons is associated with metabolic disorders and malnutrition. Food rich in carbohydrates and fats saturates the body with calories, which we, in our sedentary city life, often simply have nowhere to spend; as a result, energy is deposited in the form of adipose tissue, creating excess weight. Obesity is an increase in the load on the spine, which leads to the development of osteochondrosis. In addition, such a diet usually contains an insufficient amount of trace elements (calcium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese and others), which are so necessary for strengthening bone tissue. Overweight is often caused by endocrine diseases. At the same time, a violation of energy, water or mineral metabolism can also adversely affect the tissues involved in the structure of the spine.
Factors contributing to the development of osteochondrosis can be:
- flat feet;
- hormonal changes;
- infectious diseases;
- local circulatory disorders,
as well as some other factors.
Symptoms of osteochondrosis
In the initial stage of osteochondrosis, there are no pronounced symptoms. It is possible to hypothesize the development of osteochondrosis in case of:
- dull pain in the back (in the area of the affected area of the spine);
- feelings of heaviness in the back, constant tension of the spinal muscles;
- numbness of the muscles, the appearance of "goosebumps". In such cases, it is usually said that "the back is numb";
- creaking when turning the body and neck;
- headache, dizziness, tinnitus (typically with cervical osteochondrosis);
- aching pains in the chest area (typically with thoracic osteochondrosis).
At the first appearance of such symptoms, it is advisable to be examined by a neurologist.
Further development of the disease is manifested in symptoms that bring significant discomfort:
Backache
There are severe pains in the back (along the spine). Pain can radiate to the limb.
Numbness in the fingers
A typical manifestation of osteochondrosis is numbness in the fingers and toes.
Restriction of motor activity
Even with minimal physical exertion, the pain increases (for example, due to tremors and jolts when traveling in transport). Pain leads to significant restrictions on mobility and motor activity.
Methods for the diagnosis of osteochondrosis
The main role in the diagnosis of osteochondrosis belongs to instrumental studies: radiography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance.
It may be necessary to confirm that the symptoms observed are not caused by other medical conditions. For the purpose of differential diagnosis, a general and biochemical blood test, general urine examination and ultrasound examinations of internal organs are performed.
Spinal X-ray
X-rays of the problem areas of the spine are done. Which department should be examined is determined based on the patient's complaints.
Computed Tomography (CT)
Computed tomography (MSCT) allows you to get a more informative picture of pathological processes and determine the degree of their severity. In particular, TCMS allows to detect an intervertebral hernia.
Computed tomography is performed when radiographic data is insufficient.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
MRI is the most informative method of diagnosing osteochondrosis. In some cases (for example, with suspicions of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine), it is not possible to do without MRI. MRI allows visualization of cartilage and soft tissues, on the basis of which it is possible to locate the source of problems as accurately as possible and establish the cause of the disease.
Methods of treatment of osteochondrosis
It is recommended to start osteochondrosis treatment as soon as possible, since pathological changes in the spine are irreversible in most cases. Therefore, treatment is mainly aimed at eliminating pain and preventing further development of the disease.
The course of treatment, as a rule, is complex and is prescribed individually, depending on the patient's condition. The clinic uses for the treatment of osteochondrosis:
Pharmacological treatment
First of all, the treatment is aimed at stopping (eliminating) the pain syndrome. Anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant drugs (drugs that relax muscles) are used.
In addition, drugs that improve blood circulation, chondoprotectors (drugs that restore cartilage tissue), vitamin D and calcium preparations are used in the treatment of osteochondrosis.
Massage
Massage for osteochondrosis relieves muscle tone, stimulates blood flow in the spine and improves metabolic processes. This serves to strengthen the vertebrae and intervertebral discs, suppress inflammation and reduce pain.
Physiotherapy
With osteochondrosis, physiotherapy methods such as electrophoresis, phonophoresis, UHF, magnetotherapy are used.
Reflexology
Reflexology for osteochondrosis is used as an additional therapeutic method. Acupuncture helps relieve pain, reduce inflammation, normalize blood circulation and increase the effects of the drugs used.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy for osteochondrosis is mainly aimed at eliminating pain and restoring mobility of the spine. A set of specially selected exercises is used.
Prevention of osteochondrosis
As a prevention of osteochondrosis, the doctors of the clinic recommend:
- maintain correct posture. Posture is the usual standing position of the body. Ideally, the head and back should be on the same vertical, the shoulders should be level, the stomach is pulled in and the chest is lifted. The habit of the body is developed by the exercise, so the posture must be monitored - do not bend or bend;
- lead an active lifestyle, do gymnastics;
- it is useful to hang on a horizontal bar - while the spine is strained;
- sleep on a hard mattress. It is recommended to purchase an orthopedic mattress and pillow;
- follow a balanced diet, eating foods that contain sufficient amounts of vitamins and minerals.