Osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis is a disease in whichDegenerative and dystrophic changes occur in the cartilage tissue of the spine, accompanied by limited functionality 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 a mattress that is too soft, a high pillow, wearing uncomfortable shoes or high-heeled shoes.
2. Lack of exercise, obesity.
3. Injuries to the back and lower extremities.
4. Flat feet.
5. physical overload on the body.
6. genetic predisposition.
7. Postural disorders during active growth, scoliosis.
8. malnutrition, diets.
9. bad habits.
10. Pregnancy.

Stages of development of osteochondrosis

1. Stage 1 osteochondrosis: Mild discomfort occurs with prolonged stay in an uncomfortable position, active movement, etc.
2. Stage 2 osteochondrosis: Noticeable discomfort and pain occur with certain stresses and movements.
3. Stage 3 osteochondrosis: stiffness in movements appears, a tingling sensation, numbness in the limbs may appear, pain in the back, neck and lumbosacral area is clearly felt.
4. Stage 4 osteochondrosis: osteophytes are formed, new bone formations that improve the fixation of the vertebra.However, in some cases, osteophytes can lead to pinched nerves and injury to 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 cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral or mixed, combined forms of the disease.

Diagnosis of osteochondrosis:

1. X-ray 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 the disease osteochondrosis is carried out in two directions, depending on the degree of osteochondrosis and the patient's health status.

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 (ultrasound waves, low-frequency currents, etc.);
3. physiotherapy (physiotherapy);
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 strokes;
5. Paralysis of the lower limbs.

Prevention of osteochondrosis:

1. active lifestyle, fitness classes;
2. If you have to sit for a long time, you should choose the right chairs that support the spine, pay attention to compliance with the standards for the position of your hands on the table, your feet on the floor or a special stand, and learn to maintain your posture;
3. orthopedic bedding;
4. choosing the right shoes;
5. balanced nutritional and drinking regime;
6. Healthy lifestyle.