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 cartilaginous and bone tissues of the vertebrae and discs. In simple words, in chondrosis and osteochondrosis, the discs and adjacent bone structures wear out over time, compensating for the changes by marginal growth of tissues and their compaction. In case of chondrosis, only the cartilage of the disc itself, and in case of osteochondrosis, the adjacent vertebral bodies. This is a very common disease. According to WHO statistics, up to 80% of the world's inhabitants suffer from it. Doctors note that most often it occurs due to increased load on the spine: excess weight and a sedentary lifestyle.
What to do with osteochondrosis and where to go if the disease is suspected, say neurologist Igor Matsokin and physiotherapy specialist Oksana Ivanova.
Classification
According to the ICD-10 classification, spinal osteochondrosis has the code M42. Includes:
- M42. 0 Juvenile osteochondrosis of the spine Calve's disease, Scheuermann's disease
Excludes: positional kyphosis (M40. 0)
- M42. 1 Osteochondrosis of the spine in adults
- M42. 9 Spinal osteochondrosis, unspecified
Species
Depending on the location, there are several types:
Cervical
The cervical spine experiences a large load and a rather complex range of motion.
Symptoms:
Sensation of crunching and clicking in the neck when turning the head from side to side, stiffness when moving. You may experience a headache (tension headache), a painful sensation in the muscles of the shoulder girdle.
Constantly tense muscles can cause numbness and tingling in your hands.
The primary goal of treatment is restoration, relief of spasms and inflammation, and restoration of range of motion.
Chest
The thoracic region is less mobile than the rest of the body in which osteochondrosis occurs. That's why it rarely appears.
Symptoms: pain in the chest muscles, often worse with static loading.
Brachial
Osteochondrosis of the shoulder joint occurs due to injuries, stretching of tendons and muscles. It occurs most often when there is excessive loading on the shoulder in athletes and loaders. But it can also develop in the cervical osteochondrosis complex.
There is pain and restrictions 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. For example, both in the lumbar and cervical regions. This is called polysegmental or generalized osteochondrosis of the spine.
Lumbar
Osteochondrosis of the lumbar region is common. The spine in the lumbosacral region experiences the greatest stress.
Symptoms:
- pain in the lower back, legs
- pain when bending, twisting - 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 necessary.
Knee
Knee joint disease. The cartilage that ensures unhindered sliding and movement of the joint is destroyed and cannot be restored. Fibrous cartilage forms, causing pain and stiffness in the leg. Pain and limited knee movement are the main reasons to visit the doctor and make a diagnosis.
Youth
The disease manifests itself in children, most often between the ages of 10 and 18 years. Degenerative changes occur in the spine, affecting ligaments, joints, intervertebral discs and bones. Juvenile osteochondrosis progresses rapidly, but in the initial stage it is difficult to detect because there is no limitation of mobility. Only in the morning does one feel any discomfort after sleeping.
Causes
The disease occurs when there is a metabolic disorder. As we age, our cartilage tissue wears down. The lack of water, microelements and amino acids reduces the elasticity of the intervertebral discs. Salt deposits are a consequence of osteochondrosis. The cause of pain is usually irritation (or irritation) of the nerve roots.
The disease affects athletes who put a lot of pressure on their backs, such as weightlifters. The risk increases after spinal cord injuries. Osteochondrosis often occurs in schoolchildren who sit for a long time, leaning over their desks, and in drivers. The factor that will cause the disease depends on the lifestyle.
Degrees
For osteochondrosis, 4 degrees (stages) are distinguished:
- 1st degree - chondrosis. there is already pain
- 2nd degree - instability. The affected vertebral disc is displaced with respect to the lower one, causing acute pain.
- 3rd degree – formation of intervertebral hernias. They compress nerve fibers and blood vessels.
- Grade 4: fibrosis of the intervertebral disc. Osteophytes may appear. These are bone growths with which the body attempts to restore supporting function.
When to do prevention
Better late than never. If you are overweight and lead a sedentary lifestyle, the sooner you start making changes, the more you will invest in your health.
Symptoms
How the disease can manifest itself in different departments:
- back hurts
- coldness and numbness of hands and feet
- headaches
- movement restriction
It is important not to confuse these signs with other diseases. Symptoms may be similar, for example, with osteochondrosis of the chest and diseases of the cardiovascular system. For accurate diagnosis and timely treatment, you should consult with a neurologist or therapist to receive a referral to a specialist.
Pain
Pain is the main problem of osteochondrosis, which is difficult to get rid of. Furthermore, not only does the spinal disc or joint hurt, but the pain radiates throughout the body. And it happens that the pain from thoracic osteochondrosis radiates to the heart, so the sensations are easily confused with heart disease.
How to distinguish heart pain from osteochondrosis:
- With heart problems, a burning sensation occurs in the chest, which can radiate to the arm or neck. Painful sensations appear suddenly and last no more than 30 minutes. The temperature rises, dizziness and chills appear. Accompanied by a feeling of shortness of breath, difficulty breathing.
- Pain with osteochondrosis can be different: pressing, shooting. As a rule, it is moderate in nature. It is not accompanied by difficulty breathing or changes in blood pressure and pulse. It has the nature of shingles, it can last for several days or it can disappear instantly.
Headache
The likelihood of a headache occurring depends on the source of the illness. Headache occurs as a result of overtension of the musculoligamentous apparatus of the neck, the action of the muscles on the channels for the passage of the painful cutaneous branches of the trigeminal nerve and the action on the trunks of the autonomous regulation of vascular tone.
Dizziness and noises in the head.
The feeling of dizziness and noise in the head with osteochondrosis occurs for the same reason as headaches: due to muscle overstrain and irritation of certain areas of the autonomic nervous system with a subsequent vascular reaction. It is important to remember that similar sensations in the ears can be signs of other diseases.
lump in the throat
A lump in the throat with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is a common symptom. This is due to the fact that the inflamed tissue increases in volume. A person may feel a tickling sensation, throbbing in the neck, and even suffocation. It feels like something is stuck in your throat, especially when swallowing. This discomfort often forces you to consult a doctor. But this is not always osteochondrosis; It is important to exclude other pathologies, for example, enlarged thyroid gland and chronic pharyngitis. If you feel something similar, it is best to start with an ENT doctor. He will determine the cause and refer you to another specialist.
dyspnoea
Difficulty breathing occurs due to compressed vascular bundles. It appears with osteochondrosis of the cervical or thoracic regions. Due to the pain, it is not possible to breathe deeply; You have to breathe frequently and shallowly. As a result, respiratory functions are impaired, headaches and dizziness occur due to lack of oxygen to 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 that there is a direct relationship 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 precisely with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine due to compression of the blood vessels and the vertebral artery. Chest pain and shallow breathing can also cause panic due to this condition.
Temperature
The possibility of having a fever with osteochondrosis depends on many reasons. It is important to exclude other factors, such as acute respiratory infections.
Pressure
The disease can affect blood pressure; It is important to avoid such sudden increases in pressure.
Clinical guidelines
When diagnosing, conservative therapy is recommended followed by surgery to eliminate the cause of pain. The following medications are prescribed in clinical guidelines:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the form of suppositories, injections, ointments, gels.
- For acute, high-intensity pain, therapeutic blocks are indicated, the main drugs of which are local anesthetics and glucocorticoids.
- Manual therapy, osteopathy, massages.
Exacerbation
The sooner treatment is started, the easier it will be to avoid exacerbations in the future. A common cause is lifting heavy objects, especially with one hand. It is important to distribute the weight evenly and not lift it suddenly. It is advisable not to lift anything heavy. If exacerbations occur, medications will come to the rescue.
Treatment
The treatment is complex and several methods are used at the same time. The main goal is to relieve pain and prevent further degradation of the vertebrae and cartilage.
Therapeutic exercise (physiotherapy)
It is the main method of conservative treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Dosed loads for
- nerve root decompression
- Correction and strengthening of the muscular corset.
- maintain correct posture and give the ligamentous-muscular system the necessary flexibility
- prevention of complications
To achieve their goals, patients are recommended to exercise regularly using rehabilitation equipment and perform joint exercises. These exercises improve blood circulation, normalize the metabolism and nutrition of the intervertebral discs, help to increase the intervertebral space, form a muscle corset and reduce the load on the spine.
However, the treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system 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
It allows you to accelerate the treatment of many diseases, increase the effectiveness of drug therapy and reduce its dosage, as well as avoid typical side effects of medications.
Massage
It effectively relieves muscle tension and pain, improves blood circulation and has an overall strengthening effect.
manual therapy
The doctor's individual impact on the musculoskeletal system to relieve acute and chronic pain in the spine and joints, as well as to increase range of motion and correct posture.
Reflexology
Various techniques and therapeutic methods to influence the reflexogenic zones of the body and acupuncture points. Using reflexology in combination with other treatment methods significantly increases its effectiveness.
Drug therapy
It is indicated during the period of exacerbation of the disease and is aimed at relieving pain, eliminating the inflammatory process and improving metabolic processes. Medications can be taken intramuscularly or intravenously.
It is important to note that, although each of the listed methods is very effective, the greatest therapeutic effect can be achieved only when combined with exercises using rehabilitation equipment. This allows you to create a complete muscle corset and ensure long-lasting treatment results. The way to treat each type of osteochondrosis depends on its location and the causes of its appearance.
Home treatment
At home you can and should continue the treatment, according to your doctor's recommendations. First of all, take care of your diet and do exercises at home. If you want to add home remedies or decoctions to your treatment, check with your doctor to see if they are safe to combine with medications.
Drugs
Most medications for osteochondrosis are aimed at relieving pain:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with diclofenac, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, and nimesulide. And not only in the form of tablets, but also ointments and gels. It is important to take the tablets in cycles and not systematically due to their effect on the gastrointestinal tract.
- A doctor prescribes opioid pain relievers (glucocorticoids) for severe pain if NSAIDs do not help relieve the pain.
- Anticonvulsants or antidepressants are needed for neuropathic pain.
- vasodilators to avoid lack of oxygen.
- Chondroprotectors for osteochondrosis - drugs to improve the functions of cartilage and joints.
- Muscle relaxants help relieve pain caused by excessive muscle tension.
Applicators
Applicators for osteochondrosis are a popular addition to treatment. It affects nerve impulses and improves blood flow, helping to relieve swelling. I mainly use two types of applicators:
- Kuznetsov applicator - mat with plastic spikes
- Lyapko applicator - covered with needles and alloys of different metals.
They can only be used with the permission of the treating doctor.
Neck
A collar (or bandage) helps in cervical osteochondrosis to relax the neck muscles and reduce the load on them. As a result, the 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 and 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 current in the form of a pulsed damped discharge. It has a very broad spectrum of action, from dermatological problems to gastrointestinal disorders. Darsonval improves tissue permeability and improves local blood circulation. Thanks to this, the medicine penetrates faster and deeper, the muscles relax and spasms disappear.
droppers
Droppers for osteochondrosis help to quickly relieve pain. They are prescribed in cases where other medications are contraindicated. This happens, for example, in people with intolerance to the components of NSAID tablets.
Corset
The corset is used in osteochondrosis to fix the spine. This helps relieve tension and prevent displacement of the vertebrae. You can use it after consulting a doctor.
Plasters
Pain in the spine and joints can be relieved with pain relief patches. They are convenient to use when it is not possible to apply ointment or cream because they stain clothing.
Injections
Injections help quickly relieve pain during an exacerbation. It is effective and fast acting. It is important to continue taking care of your body and, even if you improve, follow your doctor's recommendations and do exercises. Injections are also a quick and effective way to deliver nutrients to the intervertebral discs.
What to inject for osteochondrosis:
- chondroprotectors
- NSAIDs
- antispasmodics
- vitamins
The choice depends on the course of the disease, the presence of pain and the recommendations of the treating physician.
vitamins
- Vitamin D helps in 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.
- The medical journal talks about vitamins of group B (thiamine, pyridoxine and cyanocobalamin), which have an analgesic effect in cervical osteochondrosis. Thanks to this, you will be able to reduce the intake of painkillers.
orthopedic pillows
Orthopedic sleeping pillows will not replace treatment, but sleeping with them will be much more comfortable. Pillows come in different shapes and materials. For example:
- a rectangular or cushion pillow is suitable for people with any type of osteochondrosis
- crescent shape for neck and shoulder pain
- A pillow with a gap in the middle or a shoulder gap will help people with cervical osteochondrosis maintain adequate blood circulation in any position during sleep. Optimal for the neck and its natural position.
It is also important to take into account not only the form of osteochondrosis, but also in what position a person prefers to sleep. A neurologist will tell you which pillow to choose correctly, after analyzing your sleep preferences and the characteristics of the course of the disease.
Massage
Therapeutic massage for osteochondrosis can only be performed in a state of remission. It will help improve blood circulation, metabolic processes, flexibility of the spine and muscles. Proper massage slows down or even stops the spread of the disease. But it is not always possible to visit a massage specialist. Special devices, such as electric back and neck massagers, will come to the rescue. 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 have extra pounds, 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 consume. Promotes fluid retention in the body.
Ceremonies
Special ones with a therapeutic effect stand out, for example, after surgery to remove a spinal hernia.
Furthermore, these are fairly simple exercises even for an unprepared person. For example, "first aid" to relieve neck tension:
Adopt the correct knee-elbow position (without bending the lower back). Slowly push the floor away from you with your hands and then "land" with your back between your shoulder blades. It is not necessary to do push-ups. The hands remain in one position. It is the thoracic region that works up and down.
Gymnastics to improve thoracic mobility:
Lying on your back, bend your knees with your arms out to your sides, just below your shoulders. Touch the hand of one hand to the hand of the other. With a look, "following" the hand. The shoulder can be lifted off the ground. Perform slowly for one minute.
You can relieve discomfort in the cervical and shoulder region and improve it by using a double massage roller:
Stand with your back to the wall, place the roller between your shoulder blades and press it against the wall, and place your feet one step away from the wall. The roller should not press on the spine, but rather on the sides of it. Perform half squats with a comfortable amplitude, bending your knees, but without lifting your heels off the ground. The roller should move at the height of the shoulder blades. You can work the neck area in the same way: fix the roller on your neck, relax your arms and lift your chin slightly. While squatting, move the roller to the base of your skull.
Army
Acceptance into the army of a person with osteochondrosis depends on the degree of the disease and the precise diagnosis. All documents and certificates must be in order: at least neurologist report and x-ray. Otherwise, after a medical examination, it is possible to make a decision on admission to military service.
In which cases they are not admitted to the army:
- damage to three or more intervertebral discs
- Anatomical changes are visible.
- pronounced pain syndrome, even after lifting weights
If there are symptoms and certificates, the young man can receive category B - limited fitness for service. This means that he will not be incorporated into the army, but may be recruited in case of military training.
It is almost impossible to obtain category D: full exemption from military service. It is possible, for example, with osteochondropathy, kyphosis, the final stage of osteochondrosis.
Question and answer
Acupuncture for osteochondrosis.
Acupuncture or acupuncture is used in conjunction with other treatments. It is especially effective in times of exacerbation of pain syndromes.
The procedure has a number of advantages:
- low risk of allergic reactions
- quick results
- minimal risk of injury
It is important to understand that acupuncture helps relieve pain, but does not cure the disease.
How to sleep correctly with cervical osteochondrosis
There are two optimal positions: lying on your back and on your side.
Sleeping on your back is optimal for relaxing the body. For proper weight distribution, it is recommended to place a small cushion under your knees.
In the lateral position, the neck muscles relax, the load on the spine is reduced, and the blood circulation process is not disturbed.
It is important to choose the right pillow based on the position you prefer.
Is it possible to take a steam bath with osteochondrosis?
Most of the time, bathing is not a contraindication. On the contrary, due to the high temperature, blood flow improves and symptoms are relieved.
In case of exacerbation of osteochondrosis, bathing is contraindicated. If 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 permissible, but also necessary for osteochondrosis. But there are exceptions:
- professional sports
- dangerous sport
- sport with weight lifting
Is it possible to warm the neck with cervical osteochondrosis?
You should not heat your neck to relieve pain. In this way, blood will begin to flow even more towards the inflammation and it will intensify.
What not to do with osteochondrosis
- lift weights, even in the gym
- make sudden movements, such as when playing sports
- sleeping on a mattress that is too soft or a pillow that is too high
- Abuse high-calorie foods, coffee, alcohol.
- staying in a bent position for a long time, for example when cleaning or in the garden
- wear high heels
Yoga for osteochondrosis
Yoga is an excellent physical activity option for osteochondrosis. There are no sudden movements or heavy objects. Yoga not only eliminates 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 condition that can be prevented. To do this, you must monitor your diet and physical activity.