Osteochondrosis is a degenerative-dystrophic change in the complex of vertebrae, intervertebral discs and joints. It develops as a result of metabolic disorders in the cartilage and bone tissues of the vertebrae and discs. In simple words, with chondrosis and osteochondrosis, the discs and adjacent bone structures wear out over time, compensating for the changes with the marginal growth of tissues and their compression. In the case of chondrosis - only the disc cartilage itself, and in osteochondrosis the vertebral bodies adjacent to it. This is a very common disease. According to statistics of the World Health Organization, up to 80% of the world's population suffers from it. Doctors note that most often this happens due to increased stress on the spine - excess weight and a sedentary lifestyle.
What to do with osteochondrosis and where to go if you suspect the disease, say neurologist Igor Matsokin and exercise therapy specialist Oksana Ivanova.
Classification
According to the ICD-10 classification, osteochondrosis of the spine has the code M42. This includes:
- M42. 0 Juvenile osteochondrosis of the spine Calf disease, Sheyerman's disease
Not excluded: positional kyphosis (M40. 0)
- M42. 1 Osteochondrosis of the spine in adults
- M42. 9 Osteochondrosis of the spine, unspecified
Species
There are several types depending on the location:
Cervical
The cervical spine experiences a high load and a rather complex range of motion.
Symptoms:
Crackling and clicking sensation in the neck when turning the head from side to side, stiffness when moving. You may feel a headache (tension headache), pain in the muscles of the shoulder girdle.
Constantly tense muscles can cause numbness and tingling in the hands.
The main focus of treatment is recovery, elimination of spasm and inflammation, and restoration of range of motion.
Chest
The thoracic region is less mobile than the rest of the body where osteochondrosis occurs. Therefore, it is rarely seen.
Symptoms: pain in the chest muscles, often worsened by static load.
Brachial
Osteochondrosis of the shoulder joint occurs due to injury, stretching of tendons and muscles. It often occurs in athletes and lifters when there is an excessive load on the shoulder. However, it can also develop in cervical osteochondrosis complex.
There is pain and limitations when moving the joints.
Vertebrate
With osteochondrosis of the spine, the intervertebral discs are destroyed. It happens that not one part of the spine is affected, but two or more parts. For example, both in the lumbar and cervical regions. This is called polysegmental or widespread osteochondrosis of the spine.
Waist
Osteochondrosis of the lumbar region is common. The spine in the lumbar-sacral region experiences the greatest stress.
Symptoms:
- pain in the back, legs
- pain when bending, turning - stiffness in back movements
Hip
With osteochondrosis of the hip joint, the pain is not severe, but it is important to consult a doctor immediately so that surgical intervention is not required.
Knee
Knee joint disease. The cartilage that ensures the smooth sliding and movement of the joint is destroyed and cannot be restored. Fibrous cartilage forms, causing pain and stiffness in the foot. The main reasons for visiting a doctor and making a diagnosis are pain and limitation of movement in the knee.
young
The disease manifests itself in children, mostly between the ages of 10 and 18. Degenerative changes occur in the spine, affecting ligaments, joints, intervertebral discs and bones. Juvenile osteochondrosis progresses rapidly, but it is difficult to detect at the initial stage, because there is no limitation of mobility. Only in the morning after sleep does he feel a little discomfort.
Reasons
The disease occurs when there are metabolic disorders. As we age, our cartilage tissue wears down. Deficiency of water, trace elements and amino acids reduces the flexibility of intervertebral discs. Salt deposits are the result of osteochondrosis. The cause of pain is often irritation (or irritation) of nerve roots.
The disease affects athletes who put high stress on their backs, such as weightlifters. The risk increases after spinal cord injuries. Osteochondrosis often occurs in schoolchildren and drivers who sit for a long time, bend over a desk. Which factor will cause the disease depends on the lifestyle.
Degrees
There are 4 degrees (stages) for osteochondrosis:
- 1st degree - chondrosis. There is already pain
- 2nd degree - instability. The affected vertebral disc is displaced relative to the bottom, causing sharp pain.
- 3rd degree - the formation of intervertebral hernias. They compress nerve fibers and blood vessels.
- 4th degree - intervertebral disc fibrosis. Osteophytes may be seen. These are bone growths where the body tries to restore supporting function.
When should prophylaxis be carried out?
Better late than never. If you're overweight and lead a sedentary lifestyle, the sooner you start making changes, the better investment you'll make in your health.
Symptoms
How the disease can manifest itself in different departments:
- back hurts
- coldness and numbness of the hands and feet
- headaches
- restriction of movements
It is important not to confuse these symptoms with other diseases. Symptoms can be similar to, for example, osteochondrosis of the chest and diseases of the cardiovascular system. You should consult a neurologist or therapist to refer to a specialist for an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment.
Pain
The main problem of osteochondrosis is pain, which is difficult to get rid of. In addition, not only the spinal disc or the joint itself hurts - the pain spreads further throughout the body. And it happens that the pain of thoracic osteochondrosis spreads to the heart, so the sensations are easily confused with heart disease.
How to distinguish heart pain from osteochondrosis:
- With heart problems, there is a burning sensation in the chest, which can spread to the arm or neck. Painful sensations appear suddenly and do not last more than 30 minutes. The temperature rises, dizziness and chills appear. The feeling of lack of air is accompanied by shortness of breath.
- Pain with osteochondrosis can be different: pressing, burning. As a rule, it is mild in nature. It is not accompanied by shortness of breath and changes in blood pressure and pulse. Shingles has its own nature, it can last for a few days or it can go away immediately.
Headache
The cause of the headache depends on the source of the disease. Headache occurs as a result of excessive tension of the musculo-ligamentous apparatus of the neck, the effect of the muscles on the channels for the passage of the painful skin branches of the trigeminal nerve, and the effect on the trunks of the autonomic regulation of vascular tone.
Dizziness and noise in the head
Feelings of dizziness and noise in the head with osteochondrosis occur for the same reason as headaches: muscle overload and irritation of certain parts of the autonomic nervous system, with subsequent vascular reaction. It should be remembered that similar sensations in the ears can be a sign of other diseases.
Swelling in the throat
With osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, a tumor in the throat is a common symptom. This is due to an increase in the volume of the inflamed tissue. A person may feel a tickling sensation, throbbing in the neck and even suffocation. It feels as if something is stuck in the throat, especially when swallowing. Such anxiety often forces to consult a doctor. But this is not always osteochondrosis, it is important to exclude other pathologies, for example, an enlarged thyroid gland, chronic pharyngitis; If you feel something similar, it is better to start with an otolaryngologist. He will determine the cause and refer to another specialist.
Shortness of breath
Shortness of breath occurs due to compressed vascular bundles. It appears with osteochondrosis of the cervical or thoracic regions. It is impossible to breathe deeply due to pain, you need to breathe often and shallowly; As a result, respiratory functions are impaired, headaches and dizziness occur due to lack of oxygen in the brain. This can have serious consequences. If you notice such a symptom, consult your doctor.
Panic attacks
A neurosurgeon at a regional hospital claims a direct link between panic attacks and osteochondrosis. One of the causes of panic attacks is a sign of impaired blood circulation in the brain. And this often happens with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine due to compression of blood vessels and vertebral artery. Chest pain and shallow breathing can also cause panic due to this condition.
Temperature
The temperature with osteochondrosis depends on many reasons. It is important to rule out other factors, such as acute respiratory infections.
Pressure
The disease can affect blood pressure, it is important to avoid such pressure increases.
Clinical guidelines
When the diagnosis is made, conservative therapy is recommended, followed by surgery to eliminate the cause of the pain. The following drugs are prescribed in clinical guidelines:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the form of suppositories, injections, ointments, gels.
- For acute pain of high intensity, the main drugs are local anesthetics and therapeutic blockades with glucocorticoids.
- Manual therapy, osteopathy, massage.
Aggravation
The sooner treatment begins, the easier it is to prevent future flare-ups. A common cause is lifting heavy objects, especially with one hand. It is important to distribute the weight evenly and not lift suddenly. It is advisable not to lift heavy objects at all. If an exacerbation occurs, drugs will come to the rescue.
Treatment
The treatment is complex, using several methods at the same time. The main goal is to relieve pain and prevent further degradation of the vertebrae and cartilage.
Therapeutic exercise (physical therapy)
It is the main method of conservative treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system. For dosed loads
- nerve root decompression
- correction and strengthening of muscle corset
- maintaining the correct posture and providing the necessary flexibility to the ligamentous-muscular system
- prevention of complications
To achieve their goals, patients are advised to exercise regularly and do joint exercises using rehabilitation equipment. These exercises improve blood circulation, normalize metabolism and nutrition of the intervertebral discs, help to increase the intervertebral space, form a muscular corset and reduce the load on the spine.
However, treatment of musculoskeletal disorders is not limited to exercise therapy. Physiotherapy based on the use of physical factors:
- low frequency currents
- magnetic fields
- ultrasound and laser
Application of physiotherapy
This makes it possible to speed up the treatment of many diseases, increase the effectiveness of drug treatment and reduce its dosage, as well as avoid side effects inherent to drugs.
Massage
It effectively relieves muscle tension and pain, improves blood circulation and has a general strengthening effect.
Manual therapy
The doctor's individual influence on the musculoskeletal system to relieve acute and chronic pain in the spine and joints, as well as to increase the range of motion and correct posture.
Reflexology
Various therapeutic methods and methods affecting reflexogenic zones and acupuncture points of the body. The use of reflexology in combination with other treatment methods significantly increases their effectiveness.
Drug therapy
It is indicated during the exacerbation of the disease and aims to relieve pain, eliminate the inflammatory process and strengthen metabolic processes. Medicines can be taken intramuscularly or intravenously.
It is important to note that although each of the listed methods is highly effective, the greatest therapeutic effect can be achieved only when combined with exercises using rehabilitation equipment. This allows you to create a full-fledged muscle corset and ensure lasting treatment results. How to treat each type of osteochondrosis depends on its location and the causes of its appearance.
Treatment at home
At home, you can and should continue treatment according to your doctor's recommendations. First of all, watch your diet and exercise at home. If you want to add folk remedies or decoctions to your treatment, check with your doctor to find out if they are safe to combine with medications.
Drugs
Most drugs for osteochondrosis are aimed at relieving pain:
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with diclofenac, ibuprofen, ketoprofen and nimesulide. And not only in the form of tablets, but also in the form of ointments and gels. Due to the effect on the gastrointestinal tract, it is important to take the tablets not systematically, but in courses.
- Opioid analgesics (glucocorticoids) are prescribed by a doctor for severe pain if NSAIDs do not help relieve pain.
- Anticonvulsants or antidepressants are needed for neuropathic pain.
- vasodilators to prevent oxygen starvation.
- chondroprotectors for osteochondrosis - drugs to improve the functions of cartilage and joints.
- muscle relaxants help relieve pain from excessive muscle tension.
Applicators
Applicators for osteochondrosis are a popular addition to treatment. It affects nerve impulses and improves blood flow, helps to eliminate swelling. I mainly use two types of applicators:
- Kuznetsov applicator - mat with plastic spikes
- Lyapko applicator - coated with needles and alloys of various metals.
They can be used only after the permission of the attending physician.
Collar
A neck collar (or bandage) helps with cervical osteochondrosis to relax the neck muscles and reduce the load on them. As a result, pain disappears and blood flow to the brain improves. Bandages come in different sizes and stiffness, so if you have neck pain, you should definitely see a doctor to find out the cause. If it is osteochondrosis and you have no contraindications, your doctor will tell you which product is best for you.
Darsonval
Darsonval is a medical device that produces a current in the form of a pulsed damped discharge. It has a wide range of effects, from dermatological problems to gastrointestinal diseases. Darsonval improves tissue permeability and improves local blood circulation. Thanks to this, the drug penetrates faster and deeper, and the muscles relax and spasms disappear.
Drops
Drops for osteochondrosis help to quickly relieve pain. They are prescribed in cases where other drugs are contraindicated. This happens, for example, in people with intolerance to the components of NSAID tablets.
Corset
Corset is used for osteochondrosis to straighten the spine. This helps relieve tension and prevent vertebral displacement. You can use it after consulting a doctor.
Plasters
Pain in the spine and joints can be relieved with pain relief patches. It is convenient to use when it is not possible to apply ointment or cream, because they stain clothes.
Injections
Injections help to quickly relieve pain during exacerbations. It acts efficiently and quickly. It's important to continue to take care of your body and follow your doctor's recommendations and exercise even if you get better. Injections are also a quick and effective way to deliver nutrients to the intervertebral discs.
What is injected for osteochondrosis:
- chondroprotectors
- NSAIDs
- antispasmodics
- vitamins
The choice depends on the course of the disease, the presence of pain and the recommendations of the attending physician.
Vitamins
- Vitamin D helps the absorption of calcium, which is necessary for the restoration of bone structures of the spine.
- Vitamins A, E, C contribute to the production of collagen and other tissues necessary for joints.
- A medical journal talks about B vitamins (thiamine, pyridoxine and cyanocobalamin) that have a pain-relieving effect on cervical osteochondrosis. Thanks to this, you can reduce the intake of painkillers.
Orthopedic pillows
Orthopedic sleeping pads will not replace treatment, but sleeping with them will be more comfortable. Pillows are made in different shapes and materials. For example:
- a rectangular pillow or pillow is well suited for people with any kind of osteochondrosis.
- crescent shape for neck and shoulder pain
- a pillow with a recess in the middle or a recess for the shoulder will help people with cervical osteochondrosis to maintain proper blood circulation in any position during sleep. It is optimal for the neck and its natural position.
It is important to consider not only the form of osteochondrosis, but also the position in which a person prefers to sleep. After analyzing your sleep preferences and the characteristics of the course of the disease, the neurologist will tell you which pillow to choose correctly.
Massage
Therapeutic massage for osteochondrosis can be done only in remission. This will help improve blood circulation, metabolic processes, flexibility of the spine and muscles. Proper massage slows or even stops the spread of the disease. However, it is not always possible to visit a massage specialist. Special devices such as electric massagers for the back and neck will help. They are especially effective in the initial stages of cervical osteochondrosis. The main thing is to use it correctly and consult a doctor.
Diet
There is no special diet for osteochondrosis. The most important thing is to maintain a healthy weight. If you are overweight, you should discuss weight loss methods with your doctor and understand the reasons for your high weight.
What does a balanced diet mean:
- protein
- healthy saturated fats
- complex carbohydrates
- fruits and vegetables
It is also important to control the amount of salt you use. It promotes fluid retention in the body.
Exercises
Special ones with a therapeutic effect, for example, after surgery to remove a herniated disc, stand out.
Moreover, these are quite simple exercises even for an untrained person. For example, "first aid" to relieve tension in the neck:
Gymnastics to improve thoracic mobility:
You can relieve discomfort in the cervical region and shoulders and improve them using a double massage roller:
Army
Whether someone with osteochondrosis is accepted into the army depends on the extent of the disease and the exact diagnosis. All documents and certificates must be in order: at least a neurologist's opinion and X-ray. Otherwise, a decision on enlistment may be made after a medical examination.
In what cases are they not taken to the army:
- damage to three or more intervertebral discs
- anatomical changes are observed
- open pain syndrome, including after lifting weights
If there are symptoms and certificates, the young man can receive category B - limited eligibility for service. This means that he will not be drafted into the army, but can be drafted into military service if he undergoes military training.
Category D - complete exemption from military service is almost impossible. This is possible, for example, with osteochondropathy kyphosis - the last stage of osteochondrosis.
Question and answer
Acupuncture for osteochondrosis
Acupuncture or acupuncture is used in combination with other treatments. It is especially effective at times of exacerbation of pain syndromes.
The procedure has several advantages:
- low risk of allergic reactions
- fast results
- minimal risk of injury
It is important to understand that acupuncture helps relieve pain, but does not cure the disease.
How to sleep properly with cervical osteochondrosis
There are two optimal positions: back and side sleeping.
Sleeping on the back is optimal for relaxing the body. It is recommended to put a small pillow under your knees for proper weight distribution.
In the lateral position, the neck muscles relax, the load on the spine decreases, and the blood circulation process is not disturbed.
It is important to choose the right pillow depending on your preferred position.
Is it possible to take a steam bath with osteochondrosis?
Often, the bath is not a contraindication. On the contrary, due to high temperature, blood flow improves and symptoms are relieved.
In case of exacerbation of osteochondrosis, the bath is contraindicated. If the blood flow increases at the site of inflammation, it will cause complications.
Is it possible to play sports with osteochondrosis?
Moderate loads are not only allowed, but also necessary for osteochondrosis. But there are exceptions:
- professional sports
- dangerous sport
- exercise with weight lifting
Is it possible to warm the neck with cervical osteochondrosis?
You should not heat your neck to relieve pain. Thus, the blood will begin to flow more to the inflammation and it will intensify.
What not to do with osteochondrosis
- lift weights, including in the gym
- making sudden movements, such as when exercising
- sleep on a very soft mattress or a very high pillow
- abuse high-calorie foods, coffee, alcohol
- taking a bent position for too long, for example, while cleaning or in the garden
- wear high heels
Yoga for osteochondrosis
Yoga is an excellent option for physical activity for osteochondrosis. No sudden movements and heavy objects. Yoga not only relieves the symptoms but also fights the cause of the disease. In rare cases, yoga is contraindicated, so you should still discuss this with your doctor.
Osteochondrosis is a serious disease that can be prevented. For this, you need to monitor your diet and physical activity.