Osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis is a disease in whichDegenerative and dystrophic changes occur in the cartilaginous tissues of the spine, associated with impaired functioning of the intervertebral discs.

Osteochondrosis is divided into cervical, thoracic and lumbar.The average age of appearance of osteochondrosis is 30-35 years.

Causes of the development of osteochondrosis:

1. uneven load on the spine: habits of carrying the bag on one shoulder or in one hand, incorrect sitting position, sleeping on an overly soft mattress, high pillow, wearing uncomfortable shoes or high-heeled shoes.
2. sedentary lifestyle, excess weight.
3. injuries to the back and lower extremities.
4. flat feet.
5. physical overload of the body.
6. genetic predisposition.
7. postural disorders during the period of active growth, scoliosis.
8. malnutrition, diets.
9. bad habits.
10. pregnancy.

Stages of development of osteochondrosis

1. Stage 1 of osteochondrosis: minor discomfort appears when staying in an uncomfortable position for a long time, active movement, etc.
2. Stage 2 of osteochondrosis: noticeable discomfort and pain appear with certain types of stress and movements.
3. Stage 3 of osteochondrosis: stiffness in movement appears, tingling, numbness may appear in the limbs, pain in the back, neck and in the lumbosacral region can be clearly felt.
4. Stage 4 of osteochondrosis: osteophytes are formed, new bone formations that improve the fixation of the vertebrae, but in some cases osteophytes can cause pinched nerves and damage the vertebrae.

Symptoms of osteochondrosis:

1. periodic feeling of back fatigue, severe pain in the neck, back, chest and shoulder girdle.
2. discomfort, stiffness of body movements.
3. headache, dizziness, increased fatigue.
4. pain in the heart area.pain in the lower back that radiates to the legs.

Classification of osteochondrosis:

• osteochondrosis of the combined types of cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral or mixed diseases.

Diagnosis of osteochondrosis:

1. X-ray examination of the spine;
2. neurological examination of sensitivity, reflexes;
3. computed tomography (CT) of the spine;
4. nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR);
5. magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Treatment of osteochondrosis:

Therapy for the disease of osteochondrosis is carried out in two directions, depending on the degree of osteochondrosis and the patient's state of health.

Conservative treatment of osteochondrosis

Conservative therapy aims to relieve pain, normalize the functioning of the spine and prevent negative changes.

1. drug therapy;
2. physiotherapy (ultrasound waves, low-frequency current, etc.);
3. physical therapy (physical therapy);
4. massage;manual therapy;
5. balanced food, diet.

Complications of osteochondrosis:

1. spinal hernia;
2. radiculitis;
3. salt deposits in the intervertebral space;
4. spinal cord injury;
5. paralysis of the lower limbs.

Prevention of osteochondrosis:

1. active lifestyle, fitness classes;
2. if you need to sit for a long time, you should choose the right chairs that provide support for the spine, ensure compliance with the standards for the position of your hands on the table, your feet on the floor or a special posture and learn to maintain your posture;
3. orthopedic beds;
4. choosing the right shoes;
5. balanced diet and drink;
6. healthy lifestyle.