Osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosisis a world-class disease because it affects people all over the world (40-90%).This pathology occurs in most cases in middle-aged people, after 30 years.Everyday back pain is often attributed to this condition.In our article we will consider the detailed symptoms, find out the causes and methods of treatment of osteochondrosis.In medicine, this disease is considered a damage to the spinal tissue of a degenerative-dystrophic nature.Osteochondrosis is accompanied by damage to the intervertebral discs, joint surfaces, vertebral bodies and ligaments.As a rule, with osteochondrosis, bones and ligaments are the first to be affected.

There are several stages in the development of osteochondrosis.Let's look at them in more detail:

• Osteochondrosis in the initial stage resembles dehydration of the nucleus pulposus, which causes a decrease in the position of the vertebra.To make it clearer to the reader, let's explain what the nucleus pulposus is.This medical term refers to the interior of the intervertebral disc, which is represented by semi-fluid (connective tissue fibers) and gelatinous (chondrin) components.During this period, the patient presents cracks in the annulus fibrosus.
• The next stage is closely related to the previous one: due to spinal prolapse, the ligaments and muscles sag.This condition causes motor imbalance in the vertebrae.This period is characterized by spondylolisthesis or, in simple terms, displacement of the vertebrae.
• The third stage of development of osteochondrosis is characterized by more striking manifestations for an ordinary person - protrusions of intervertebral discs (protrusion of their contents) and arthrosis.
• The final stage of osteochondrosis is associated with osteophytes.Our body, noticing the “loosening” of the vertebrae, attempts to restore the spine to its original functions: support and protection.To achieve this, bony growths appear on the surface of the vertebrae, called osteophytes.During the same period, fibrous tissue develops.The result of these processes is the entrapment of the spinal motor segment in the shell.

Osteochondrosis is a multispecies disease.There is osteochondrosis of the cervical, thoracic and lumbosacral regions, as well as a common type of osteochondrosis.Osteochondrosis of the knee joint has become more and more common in medical practice.

Reasons for the development of osteochondrosis

The reasons for the development of this disease are numerous and not always easy to determine.People are brought closer to the development of osteochondrosis by a sedentary lifestyle so common today, excess weight, bad habits (especially smoking), poor diet, flat feet, intense physical activity and poor posture.Spinal injuries can contribute to the development of osteochondrosis and can also develop through genetic predisposition.Metabolic disorders, infections, congenital anomalies and age-related changes are common causes of the development of this disease.An interesting fact is the connection between the development of osteochondrosis and vibration.This directly concerns agricultural machine drivers or machine operators.

Current osteochondrosis has no serious age limits - it occurs both in old people and in young people.There is an opinion that the development of osteochondrosis is associated with salt deposition, but this is not entirely correct.Salt deposits are more likely a consequence of osteochondrosis.The cause of pain in osteochondrosis is often irritation of the nerve roots, called irritation in medicine.Vascular disorders against the background of osteochondrosis develop due to impaired innervation of the vasomotor system.

Symptoms of osteochondrosis

The most obvious symptom of osteochondrosis is pain and discomfort.The pain is not always constant;this may periodically worsen and then subside.These symptoms are often accompanied by numbness of the limbs.In most cases, the pain radiates to the left side of the body.If you notice symptoms of this disease in yourself, hurry to consult a specialist - a therapist or neurologist.Early detection of osteochondrosis will improve the effectiveness of its treatment.

In case of osteochondrosis, patients often complain of increased fatigue.An interesting feature, which at first glance is not clear how it is related to this disease, isthe shivering of the limbs.Headaches and a feeling of dizziness often accompany osteochondrosis.A characteristic feature of the disease is also high eye fatigue and even reduced vision.In case of osteochondrosis of the lumbosacral region, patients may experience problems with the reproductive system.It is important for women to know that osteochondrosis can interfere with the normal course of pregnancy and conception itself.Each type of osteochondrosis has its own characteristic signs.So, with the cervical type of the disease, signs are observed in the form of headache (especially when moving the head), dizziness when turning the head, impaired sensitivity of the affected area, pain in the neck, shoulder blade, arms and chest.An interesting and not particularly pleasant symptom of cervical osteochondrosis is reduced mobility of the tongue.Thoracic type osteochondrosis is rare and is characterized by chest pain, especially when breathing.The pain can radiate to the stomach, heart and liver.This type is also characterized by numbness, only now in the chest area.In lumbosacral pathology, patients often complain of pain radiating towards the legs.Another symptom of this type of osteochondrosis is paresis of the lower extremities.

Methods for diagnosing osteochondrosis

Before starting diagnostic studies, the neurologist collects the patient's medical history and carefully studies his complaints.Osteochondrosis has symptoms in common with some other diseases, so it is important to be able to differentiate the pathologies.Radiographic studies will help confirm the diagnosis of osteochondrosis: radiography, myelography and computed tomography.

A survey x-ray provides a radiological image of the spine or a section of it.In this way, the doctor can determine the location affected by the disease.For greater clarity, we will explain how osteochondrosis can be determined by radiography: the image will show a narrowing of the intervertebral disc, the presence of bone growths (osteophytes) or a change in the shape of the spinal segment.

The myelographic examination is more complex than the radiographic examination.This is due to certain manipulations that doctors must perform during myelography: contrast fluid is injected into the medullary canal.This can pose a danger to the patient: on the one hand, an allergic reaction to the injected substance may develop, and on the other hand, if the puncture fails, the spinal cord may be damaged.Despite this, correctly performed myelography allows specialists to visualize the internal structure of the medullary canal.This method is particularly important for diagnosing a spinal hernia.

Computed tomography (CT scan) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) are the most effective and modern methods for differentiating osteochondrosis and spinal diseases with similar symptoms.

Treatment of osteochondrosis

Treatment of osteochondrosis is carried out comprehensively.This therapy aims to eliminate the main syndrome and causes of the disease.To combat osteochondrosis, doctors use acupuncture, vacuum treatment, manual therapy, laser treatment, traction, electrical stimulation, pharmaco and magnetic puncture.The main task to achieve effective treatment is timely detection of the disease.People faced with this serious illness ask themselves the main question: is it possible to cure osteochondrosis?The answer to this question will depend on the form and degree of osteochondrosis.If treatment of the disease is started at the first stage, then you can permanently get rid of osteochondrosis.

To treat osteochondrosis, doctors use medicinal and non-medicinal methods.Among the drugs used in the treatment of osteochondrosis, it is worth highlighting:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.They help eliminate pain and inflammation. NSAIDs may be prescribed for topical use in the form of ointments and gels. 
• Novocaine blockages.They cope effectively with pain.
• Steroid drugs.They are prescribed in the form of epidural and intramuscular injections.
• Muscle relaxers.Such remedies help the patient fight muscle spasms. 
• Vitamins B1, B6 and B12.They will help improve the metabolic processes necessary for spinal health.

The examples of non-drug treatments are varied, interesting and enjoyable.The following will help you cope with the manifestations of osteochondrosis without medications:

• exercise therapy;
• physiotherapy;
• massage;
• manual therapy;
• traction;
• reflexology.

Let's consider these treatment methods in more detail.Physiotherapy for osteochondrosis is a selection of physical exercises aimed at eliminating compression of nerve roots, correcting posture and strengthening the muscle corset.Exercise therapy helps prevent the development of complications of osteochondrosis.Such physical activity helps to reduce the load directly on the spine and also improves its blood supply.

Physiotherapeutic procedures are prescribed to patients with osteochondrosis to eliminate pain and inflammation.Electrophoresis, ultrasound, laser and magnetic treatment work effectively in this field.Massage stimulates blood circulation and relieves muscle tension.Not only therapeutic massage helps to eliminate pain, but also manual therapy.In addition, it helps restore mobility to the vertebrae and correct posture.

Traction... what is it?Under this word, at first glance incomprehensible, hides a simple meaning - “extension”.The desire to stretch the spine is probably familiar to every person suffering from osteochondrosis.In current medicine there are special devices that allow this to be done.This procedure helps to get rid of pain and increase the intervertebral space.

Another interesting method of non-drug treatment of osteochondrosis is reflexology.It is closely related to acupuncture, because it involves influencing the reflexogenic points of the human body.

The best remedy for osteochondrosis

An ideal remedy for osteochondrosis should eliminate pain and inflammation, improve blood circulation, restore mobility of cartilage and joints, and also reduce depression in the patient.A complex of well-chosen drugs copes with all these tasks.In this part of the article, we will analyze all these drugs in detail.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, for osteochondrosis

NSAIDs help a patient with osteochondrosis overcome pain, inflammation and swelling.These drugs can be produced both for local external use in the form of ointments and gels, and for internal use in the form of tablets and solutions for injection.Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can belong to different groups:

• A group of drugs containing the active ingredient diclofenac. These drugs enhance the analgesic effect of other pain relievers and reduce inflammation.The disadvantage of this group is the impossibility of their use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Unlike previous drugs, drugs from the ibuprofen group are approved for use by pregnant and lactating women under the supervision of a doctor.The substance is well tolerated and can therefore be prescribed to children. 
• The ketoprofen group of drugs has an accelerated analgesic effect.
• New generation NSAIDs include the Nimesulide group.They have minimal side effects. 

Vasodilators for osteochondrosis

Narrowing of blood vessels with osteochondrosis is observed in connection with pain and muscle tension.As a result, oxygen deprivation of damaged tissues occurs and, as a result, the functionality of internal organs is disrupted.To avoid such complications, doctors prescribe vasodilator drugs to their patients. 

Muscle relaxants for osteochondrosis

Muscle relaxers relax muscles and have a calming effect.This has a beneficial effect on blood circulation and contributes to the analgesic effect of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.Muscle relaxers also help speed up the process of repairing damaged tissues. 

Chondroprotectors for osteochondrosis

Chondroprotectors and vitamin complexes help restore cartilage tissue.Chondroprotectors are considered agents that restore not only cartilage tissue, but also mobility of the joint.Medicines worthy of this group are those based on chondroitin and glucosamine.

Sedatives for osteochondrosis

It would seem, why take sedatives in the treatment of osteochondrosis?The answer is not as complicated as one might think: a pain syndrome that haunts a person for a long time can easily cause depression and frequent stress.In most cases, valerian or motherwort tincture will suffice. 

The attending physician must select drugs for the treatment of such a serious disease as osteochondrosis.

Corset for osteochondrosis

In the complex treatment of osteochondrosis of any nature, doctors consider wearing a corset useful.Corsets are specially manufactured separately for the cervical, thoracic and lumbar regions or for complete spinal fixation.For thoracic osteochondrosis, corsets made of special stretch material with metal or plastic splints inside are used.For lumbar osteochondrosis, corsets with rigid transverse and longitudinal inserts made of metal or plastic are used.The material used for production is adhesive tape or neoprene.A cervical corset is called a collar and is rigid.Corsets that fix the entire spine are also called posture correctors.Corsets come in soft, medium and hard versions.The degree of stiffness of the corset is prescribed by the attending physician on a case-by-case basis.

Wearing a corset for osteochondrosis will help strengthen the back muscles, reduce pain, improve posture, prevent the development of complications and speed up recovery.There are certain rules regarding wearing a corset.Patients with osteochondrosis should definitely consult a specialist regarding the choice and need to use a corset.For the first time, the corset is put on for no more than 15 minutes, then you can wear it for no more than 6 hours a day.

Prevention of osteochondrosis

Prevention is of great importance in maintaining the health of the spine and preventing exacerbations of osteochondrosis.For prevention, it is necessary to lead a healthy and active lifestyle, exercise and fight excess weight, if any.Stress and nervous shock can also provoke the development of osteochondrosis.It is therefore important to monitor your mental stability and avoid stressful situations.Injuries once received can eventually react negatively, so you should avoid them from childhood.Proper nutrition for osteochondrosis and for its prevention is of particular importance.

Diet for osteochondrosis

Some experts talk about the important role of nutrition for spinal health.The products consumed by a person must provide them with substances that synthesize cartilaginous tissue.We are talking about mucopolysaccharides contained in jelly, jellied meat and gelatin.It is important to monitor sufficient fluid intake, since its lack leads to dehydration of the intervertebral discs.Proteins are useful in a normal diet, and especially in the presence of osteochondrosis.These substances can be obtained from meat, nuts, fish, beans and eggplants.

Minerals and vitamins strengthen bone tissue.So, we can get calcium from hard cheeses, dairy products, beans and lettuce.It is important to remember that vitamin D, present in eggs, butter and sea fish, is necessary for the absorption of calcium.Magnesium helps retain calcium in bone tissue and prevents it from being eliminated from the body.Magnesium can be obtained by eating cucumbers, nuts and sunflower seeds.Many people know about the phosphorus content of fish, but the fact that this element is also found in peas, soybeans, bran and white cabbage is a lesser known fact.Sources of manganese include chicken meat, yolks, cottage cheese, potato skins and bananas.

Among the vitamins, it is worth highlighting the special role of groups A, B and C. Sources of vitamin A are raw eggs, liver, carrots and melon.Pork, beef, seafood, mushrooms and cereals contain B vitamins. Ascorbic acid, familiar from childhood, is found in fresh fruits and vegetables.

So, if we look at the products included in the diet for osteochondrosis or for its prevention, we will see that from this list we can create a menu of very tasty and varied dishes.

Now let's look at banned products.The black list of products against osteochondrosis includes: salt, pickles and marinades, hot spices, processed foods, sugar (can be replaced with honey), soda and coffee.

Complications of osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis, if not properly treated, can lead the patient to disability.Complications of this pathology include:

• Stenosis of the spinal cord due to narrowing of its canal.This causes numbness in the limbs and problems walking.
• Pinched spinal nerves.
• Disc protrusion and subsequently intervertebral herniation.
• Radiculitis.
• Lumbago and sciatica.
• Vegetative-vascular dystonia.
• Schmorl's hernia.
• Vertebral displacement.
• Migraine and headaches.

With osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, an increase in blood pressure is often observed.

If you complain about the health of your spine, hurry to seek help from a doctor, because timely treatment is the key to successful recovery.