Osteochondrosis is a concept used to denote a group of diseases associated with degenerative and dystrophic changes in spinal structures. 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 consumption, aging, loss of original and dystrophic properties - changes caused by tissue nutritional disorders. Thus, the term osteochondrosis unites most spinal pathologies of a non-inflammatory nature.
The spine forms the skeletal spine, connecting different parts of the skeletal system. It supports the head, ribs and muscles are attached to it. The spinal cord passes through the spinal column, through which the brain is connected to different parts of our body. Man is the only two-limbed creature in the world, and the spine is designed to provide two-part motion. 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 - beads. This spinal structure allows us to make different movements, be flexible and absorb shocks and shocks. The function of the shock absorbers is performed by the intervertebral discs - cartilaginous layers consisting of the pulposus nucleus and the surrounding fibrosus anulus. The nucleus receives the load and absorbs it, and fibrosus anulus prevents the nucleus from flattening 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 in strong contact with each other, it becomes possible to attach the nerves that connect the spinal cord to different parts of the body. This is how osteochondrosis develops. Intervertebral hernias occur, and inflammation often develops. Deprived of shock absorption, the vertebrae can be flattened, and together their joints form cicatricial and bone 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 osteochondrosis
Osteochondrosis affects different parts of the spine. Depending on which department has suffered the most, there are:
- lumbar osteochondrosis - occurs more often;
- cervix - ranks second in "popularity";
- sacred;
- chest;
- diffuse osteochondrosis, in which several parts of the spine are affected at the same time;
- cross pathology (lumbosacral or cervicothoracic).
Causes of osteochondrosis
The causes of osteochondrosis are quite different.
First, with age, the elasticity of the intervertebral discs gradually loses. This means that our back needs special attention. Prolonged stay in a position that causes spinal distortion can cause irreversible changes. You should avoid sitting in an asymmetrical position, struggle with the habit of lying on one side only, carry a load (for example, a bag) on only one hand.
A sedentary lifestyle has a detrimental effect on spinal health. It is necessary to move, however, physical activity should be moderate. The spine should be given 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. Foods rich in carbohydrates and fats saturate the body with calories, which we, in our sedentary city life, often simply have nowhere to spend; as a result, energy is stored in the form of adipose tissue, creating excess weight. Obesity is an increased 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 the strengthening of 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 that contribute to the development of osteochondrosis may be:
- 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. It is possible to assume the development of osteochondrosis in the case of:
- dull pain in the back (in the area of the affected area of the back);
- feelings of heaviness in the spine, constant tension of the spinal muscles;
- muscle numbness, the appearance of "goose bumps". In such cases, it is usually said that "the back is numb";
- chewing when turning the body and neck;
- headache, dizziness, tinnitus (typical of cervical osteochondrosis);
- aching pain in the chest area (usually 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 carry considerable discomfort:
Backache
There is severe pain in the back (along the spine). The pain may radiate to the limb.
Numbness in the fingers
A typical manifestation of osteochondrosis is numbness of the toes and feet.
Limitation of motor activity
Even with minimal physical exertion, the pain increases (for example, as a result of shaking and shaking when traveling in transport). Pain leads to significant limitations of movement and motor activity.
Methods for the diagnosis of osteochondrosis
The main role in the diagnosis of osteochondrosis belongs to instrumental studies: radiography, computed tomography, MRI.
It may be necessary to confirm that the symptoms observed are not caused by other medical conditions. For the purposes of differential diagnosis, a general and biochemical blood test, a general urine test, and ultrasound examinations of internal organs are performed.
X-rays of the spine
X-rays are taken in problem areas of the spine. Which department should be examined is determined based on the patient's complaints.
Computed tomography (CT)
Computed tomography (MSCT) makes it possible to get a more informative picture of pathological processes and determine the degree of their severity. In particular, MSCT makes it possible to detect an intervertebral hernia.
Computed tomography is performed when X-ray data are insufficient.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
MRI is the most informative method for diagnosing osteochondrosis. In some cases (for example, with suspected osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine), MRI may not be performed. Magnetic resonance imaging allows the visualization of cartilage and soft tissues, on the basis of which it is possible to locate the source of the problem as accurately as possible and determine the cause of the disease.
Methods of treating osteochondrosis
It is advisable to start treatment of osteochondrosis as soon as possible, as pathological changes in the spine are irreversible in most cases. Therefore, treatment is mainly aimed at eliminating the pain and preventing the 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 to treat osteochondrosis:
Medication treatment
First of all, the treatment aims to stop (eliminate) the pain syndrome. Anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant drugs (medicines that relax the muscles) are used.
Also, in the treatment of osteochondrosis, drugs that improve blood circulation, chondroprotectors (drugs that restore cartilage tissue), vitamin D and calcium preparations are used.
Massage
Massage for osteochondrosis relieves muscle tone, stimulates blood flow to the spine and improves metabolic processes. This serves to strengthen the vertebrae and intervertebral discs, suppress inflammation, and reduce pain.
Physiotherapy
With osteochondrosis, such physiotherapy methods are used as electrophoresis, phonophoresis, UHF, magnetotherapy.
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 medication used.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy for osteochondrosis is primarily aimed at eliminating pain and restoring spinal mobility. A set of specially selected exercises is used.
Prevention of osteochondrosis
As a prevention of osteochondrosis, clinic doctors recommend:
- maintain correct posture. Posture is the usual position of the body while standing. Ideally, the head and back should be in the same vertical, the shoulders should be at the same level, the stomach pulled back and the chest raised. The body habit develops from exercise, therefore, posture should be monitored - not to be scratched or undressed;
- lead an active lifestyle, do gymnastics;
- it is useful to hang on a horizontal bar - while the spine is outstretched;
- sleep on a firm mattress. It is advisable to buy an orthopedic mattress and pillow;
- follow a balanced diet, eating foods that contain sufficient amounts of vitamins and minerals.