Osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis is a disease in whichdegenerative and dystrophic changes occur in the cartilaginous tissues of the spine, accompanied by reduced function of the intervertebral discs.

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

Reasons for the development of osteochondrosis:

1. uneven load on the spine: habit of carrying a bag on one shoulder or in one hand, incorrect sitting position, sleeping on too soft a mattress, high pillow, wearing uncomfortable shoes or high-heeled shoes.
2. sedentary lifestyle, excess weight.
3. injuries to the back and lower limbs.
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 osteochondrosis: mild discomfort occurs when staying in an uncomfortable position for a long time, doing active movement, etc.
2. Stage 2 osteochondrosis: Noticeable discomfort and pain occurs with certain types of stress and movements.
3. Stage 3 osteochondrosis: stiffness in movements appears, a tingling sensation, numbness in the limbs, pain in the back, neck and lumbosacral region may occur.
4. Osteochondrosis stage 4: osteophytes, new bone formations that improve the fixation of the vertebra, are formed, but in some cases osteophytes can cause crushing of the nerves and injuries to the vertebrae.

Symptoms of osteochondrosis:

1. periodic feeling of fatigue in the back, 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.lower back pain radiating to the legs.

Classification of osteochondrosis:

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

Diagnosis of osteochondrosis:

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

Treatment of osteochondrosis:

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

Conservative treatment of osteochondrosis

Conservative therapy is aimed at relieving pain, normalizing the functionality of the spine and preventing negative changes.

1. drug therapy;
2. physiotherapy (ultrasonic waves, low frequency currents, etc.);
3. physical therapy (physical therapy);
4. massage;manual therapy;
5. balanced nutrition, diet.

Complications of osteochondrosis:

1. spinal hernia;
2. radiculitis;
3. salt deposits in the intervertebral space;
4. spinal cord stroke;
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 hands on the table, feet on the floor or special support, and learn to maintain posture;
3. orthopedic bedding;
4. choose the right shoes;
5. balanced diet and consumption regime;
6. healthy lifestyle.