Back pain is a problem that most people do not give due attention to until the situation becomes critical. But the timely treatment of back pain significantly reduces the risk of developing chronic diseases of the spine, among which osteochondrosis occupies a special place.
What is osteochondrosis?
Osteochondrosis is a disease that affects the tissues of the spine, resulting in deformation of the spine (disease of the intervertebral discs and the spine as a whole). As a result, the spine loses its absorption capacity, the intervertebral discs become thinner and, in the future, may swell or pinch, which leads to the development of complications such as a herniated disc and so on.
The main danger of osteochondrosis of the spine is in its latent course. Most of the time, it is diagnosed in patients already in the last stages, when the severe pain caused by complications does not allow them to lead a normal life.
Reasons for development
There are many theories that explain the occurrence of diseases of the spine, including heredity, hormonal disorders and vascular problems. However, none of them gives a clear explanation of why spinal osteochondrosis occurs.
We will highlight a number of factors that increase the likelihood of developing osteochondrosis:
- spinal injuries - congenital or acquired;
- heredity;
- overweight, poor metabolism;
- sedentary lifestyle;
- age criterion;
- flat feet, curvature of posture, underdevelopment of the muscular system;
- work associated with heavy loads on the back;
- incorrect distribution of load on the spine during training;
- bad habits, unbalanced diet;
- the wrong choice of shoes, frequent use of high heels (for women);
- environmental factors - high humidity, very low temperatures and so on.
Stages of development of osteochondrosis
There are different stages in the development of osteochondrosis, due to different symptoms and sensations. The disease progresses slowly and the signs of this disease are formed for a long time. Determining the stage of development allows doctors to devise an effective treatment plan for the spine.
- Stage one.There is a compression of the spinal disc, the hook-like processes increase. During this period, the patient feels discomfort during physical efforts or from standing still for a long time (sitting, standing, lying). The treatment of osteochondrosis involves the use of decongestants, antihistamines and analgesics, condoprotectors.
- Stage two.The cartilaginous structures of the spine become unstable, the distance between the intervertebral discs decreases, the holes narrow. This development of the disease leads to pinched nerves and severe pain. According to statistics, it is at this stage that patients first go to the doctor with complaints. Doctors prescribe treatment - manual therapy, pain relievers, physical therapy.
- Stage three.Changes in the structure of the spine and intervertebral discs are pronounced. The almost complete closure of the holes between the discs leads to the occurrence of an intervertebral hernia. It will be possible to eliminate painful sensations in osteochondrosis not only with the help of medications, but also through surgical intervention.
- Stage four.The last stage flows very quickly from the third and is the most dangerous (final). In this case, patients are unable to move normally. Osteochondrosis is treated with constructive methods.
Symptoms of the disease
The main symptom of spinal osteochondrosis is pain of varying intensity and character. However, in addition, each type of osteochondrosis manifests itself in a number of characteristics.
Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is characterized by:
- headaches that do not respond to treatment;
- dizziness, weakness, fainting;
- a feeling of stiffness in the shoulder girdle;
- pain in the neck, arms;
- visual and hearing impairment is possible.
Thoracic spine:
- pain in the chest and shoulder blades, with marked worsening after physical exertion, hypothermia and during sleep;
- shortness of breath (pain in the chest area during inhalation-exhalation);
- frequent "chills" on the skin, poor blood circulation leads to frequent freezing of the limbs.
Lumbar spine:
- pain in the lower back, aggravated after exertion;
- periodic outbreaks of acute pain radiating to the legs, pelvic region;
- limited trunk mobility;
- decreased sensitivity of the lower extremities (in the later stages).
Any of the symptoms listed should be a reason to seek medical attention. The sooner the disease is diagnosed, the easier and more effective treatment will be.
Diagnosis
Before you know about the inherent spinal disease, you need to see a doctor for an exam. Note that osteochondrosis in the early stages can be confused with other diseases. That is why it is so important to do a complete spinal examination.
The diagnosis begins with the collection of anamnesis - study of the patient's complaints, familiarization with the history of the disease. Then, a physiological examination is performed:
- a painful area of the spine is felt;
- the patient's gait, the position of his body is assessed;
- the amount of movement is determined;
- a visual examination of the skin is carried out - presence of peeling, redness, rashes;
- spinal pain sensitivity is checked;
- the areas where the pain is located are determined.
The patient is sent for an X-ray of the spine without fail. Also in practice, the study of the spine using computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used. The photos of these devices will help to examine not only the intervertebral discs and their position, but also to determine the height of the disc, the compression of nerve endings and marginal growth.
Which doctor should I consult?
If you have already been diagnosed or suspected of osteochondrosis of the back, you should make an appointment with a neurologist and chiropractor.
Treatment
Timely diagnosis of the disease with osteochondrosis of the spine is the key to successful treatment. It is possible to identify osteochondrosis with a comprehensive examination by a doctor. After consulting your doctor, you will be examined and referred for a CT scan or MRI. The specialist will determine the location of the pain in the spine and prescribe a course of treatment.
Treatment by surgical intervention of osteochondrosis is justified in the last stages of the disease, if necessary to treat complications (hernia) or in case of threat to the bone marrow. In other cases, conservative treatment is recommended, including:
- physiotherapy (magnetic and laser treatment, vibrating massagers, spinal traction);
- physiotherapy exercises;
- massage;
- manual therapy.
Exercise therapy, exercise and gymnastics
Moderate and correct physical activity with osteochondrosis of the spine makes the body more resistant. All exercises are specifically designed to strengthen your spine muscles for more effective treatment.
Elastic and reinforced ligaments do not allow the vertebrae to move during daily movements. In addition, physical activity normalizes metabolism, which has a positive effect on the regeneration of cartilage tissue. Doctors recommend gymnastics and exercise therapy to treat patients diagnosed with osteochondrosis.
Drug treatment
The use of medications may be of a different nature for osteochondrosis. Depending on the stages, the type of osteochondrosis of the spine, the nature of the symptoms during treatment, doctors may prescribe several medications:
- analgesics and anti-inflammatories for pain relief;
- antispasmodics to eliminate muscle spasms;
- preparations to restore cartilage structure;
- means for improving blood circulation and normalizing blood vessels;
- antioxidants.
The appropriate direction of treatment is determined by the attending physician and provides a systematic and comprehensive approach. It is extremely dangerous to engage in self-treatment, to rely on acupuncture, questionable massage therapists and chiropractors who do not have the appropriate qualifications. This will not speed up the healing process in any way and can also lead to serious consequences, which will be very difficult to correct.
To avoid this, just think in advance about preventing osteochondrosis. Regular sports, swimming, running. Reconsider your diet - reducing your salt intake, eating foods rich in protein, vitamins and minerals will also significantly reduce your risk of developing osteochondrosis.
Ointments
Ointments are used in the complex treatment of osteochondrosis. They are combined with other medications. They are effective in local treatment and pain relief. The specialists prescribe ointments for heating, anti-inflammatory and analgesics, chondroprotective agents that help to restore the damaged cartilage tissue.
Injections
Doctors prescribe injections to quickly relieve pain in the compression syndrome (pinched nerves). In this case, the patient cannot even move normally without relieving the pain. Injections are prescribed during relapse, when treatment with ointments and pills becomes ineffective. With this manipulation, the necessary nutrients are quickly delivered to the affected area and contribute to an effective treatment.
Dietary treatment
The diet is part of the therapy that makes it easier and faster to deal with osteochondrosis. The diet does not require strict restrictions, but the patient will have to revise the menu. It is recommended to abandon harmful, very salty and greasy foods. It is best to eat frequently and in small portions (5-6 times a day). Treatment products should be saturated with:
- magnesium- avocado, kelp, cucumber, banana, dried apricot, beans, oats;
- calcium- eggs, seeds, nuts, dairy, beets;
- phosphor- broccoli, cabbage, hard cheeses, cottage cheese, figs, dates, seafood, fish;
- vitamin b- red meat, milk, seafood;
- vitamin A- potatoes, carrots, apricots, peaches, tomatoes, green peas;
- vitamin D- sea fish, hard cheeses, eggs, beans, butter;
- Vitamin C- citrus fruits, sauerkraut, rosehips, viburnum, hawthorn, blackcurrant, peppers.
Surgical intervention
Doctors prescribe an operation for osteochondrosis in the event that conservative treatment is not effective. Indications for surgery can be:
- loss of sensation in the leg muscles or their progressive weakness;
- large spinal hernia;
- marked narrowing and compression of the spinal canal;
- situations in which cervical osteochondrosis carries the risk of developing a stroke;
- the presence of risk of paralysis of the feet.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is prescribed in the presence of dangerous intervertebral muscle pain. By acting on acupuncture points, the doctor relieves tension and cramps, edema and improves blood microcirculation.
Possible complications
Osteochondrosis of the spine does not just cause pain and discomfort. He also has a number of negative complications, the most common of which are:
- hearing problems;
- migraine and frequent headaches;
- vision deterioration;
- radiculite;
- dysfunction of the genitourinary system;
- infertility;
- the development of an intervertebral hernia.
Is it possible to recover completely?
With the effective treatment of spinal osteochondrosis, it is possible to prevent the progression of the disease and its recurrences, relieve tension, strengthen muscles and normalize metabolic processes.
Prevention methods
If you initially take care of your health, you can avoid the questions: "What is osteochondrosis? What are its causes, symptoms and treatment methods? "
The effective preventive methods for treating spinal osteochondrosis are:
- correct organization of the workplace - comfortable orthopedic chair, sufficient lighting, table with acceptable height;
- the place to sleep should be as comfortable as possible - an orthopedic mattress, pillow;
- it is worthwhile to control your posture when you are in front of the computer, walking (do not lean);
- balanced and healthy nutrition;
- systematic physical activity - running, exercise, gymnastics, swimming;
- massage procedures for the spine.