Osteochondrosis is a concept 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 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 tissue nutritional disorders. Thus, the term osteochondrosis unites most of the pathologies of the spine of a non-inflammatory nature.
The spine forms the backbone of the skeleton, linking the various 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 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 spinal column 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 fastened together - vertebrae. This structure of the spine allows us to make various movements, be flexible and absorb shock and shock. The function of shock absorbers is performed by intervertebral discs - cartilaginous layers consisting of the nucleus pulposus and the annulus fibrosus surrounding it. The nucleus takes on the load and absorbs it, and the annulus fibrosus 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 into hard 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 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 various parts of the spine. Depending on which department suffered the most, there are:
- lumbar osteochondrosis - occurs most often;
- cervical - ranks second in "popularity";
- sacral;
- chest;
- widespread osteochondrosis, in which several parts of the spine are affected at once;
- 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 skew can cause irreversible changes. You should avoid sitting in an asymmetrical posture, fight the habit of lying only on one side, carry a load (for example, a bag) in only 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 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. 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 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 strengthening bone tissue. Overweight is often caused by endocrine diseases. At the same time, a violation of energy, water or mineral metabolism can also negatively 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
At 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 spine);
- feelings of heaviness in the back, constant tension of the spinal muscles;
- 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);
- 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 manifests itself in symptoms that carry significant discomfort:
Back pain
There are severe pains in the back (along the spine). The 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, as a result of shaking and jolting when traveling in transport). The 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, MRI.
It may be necessary to confirm that the observed symptoms are not caused by other medical conditions. For the purpose of differential diagnosis, a general and biochemical blood test, a general urine test, and ultrasound examinations of internal organs are carried out.
Spine X-ray
X-rays are taken of the problem areas of the spine. Which department needs to be examined is determined based on the patient's complaints.
Computed tomography (CT)
Computed tomography (MSCT) makes it possible to obtain 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 is insufficient.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
MRI is the most informative method for diagnosing osteochondrosis. In some cases (for example, with suspicions of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine), MRI cannot be dispensed with. Magnetic resonance imaging 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.
Osteochondrosis treatment methods
It is advisable to start treatment of osteochondrosis as early as possible, since pathological changes in the spine are irreversible in most cases. Therefore, treatment is aimed primarily 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:
Drug treatment
First of all, treatment is aimed at stopping (eliminating) the pain syndrome. Anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants (drugs that relax muscles) are used.
Also, in the treatment of osteochondrosis, drugs are used that improve blood circulation, chondoprotectors (drugs that restore cartilage tissue), vitamin D and calcium preparations.
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, such methods of physiotherapy 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 medications used.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy exercises for osteochondrosis is aimed primarily at eliminating pain and restoring the mobility of the spine. A set of specially selected exercises is used.
Prevention of osteochondrosis
As a prophylaxis for osteochondrosis, the doctors of the clinic recommend:
- maintain correct posture. Posture is the habitual position of the body while standing. Ideally, the head and back should be on the same vertical, the shoulders should be on the same level, the stomach is pulled in, and the chest is raised. The habit of the body is developed by exercise, therefore, the posture must be monitored - not to hunch over or slouch;
- lead an active lifestyle, do gymnastics;
- it is useful to hang on a horizontal bar - while the spinal column is stretched;
- sleep on a hard mattress. It is advisable to purchase an orthopedic mattress and pillow;
- follow a balanced diet, eating food that contains sufficient amounts of vitamins and minerals.