Osteochondrosis is a dystrophic inflammatory lesion of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs that, as the disease progresses, lose elasticity, become rigid and infringe on nerve endings. As a result, edema and persistent pain develop.
The last stage of osteochondrosis is characterized by significant movement restrictions, which are the basis for establishing the patient's disability group.
Causes of the disease
According to most doctors, the main reason for the development of osteochondrosis is an uneven load in different parts of the spine. This, in turn, is caused by the following factors:
Bad posture and prolonged uncomfortable posture.
Back muscles weakened.
Excessive exercise and weight lifting.
Heredity weighed.
Metabolic disorders (deficiency of phosphorus, magnesium, calcium and other trace elements).
Constant emotional stress.
Hypothermia.
Endocrine imbalance.
Spine injuries (bruises, fractures).
Osteochondrosis symptoms
The main clinical manifestations of the disease:
Decreased sensitivity in the upper and lower extremities.
Syndrome of severe pain in the neck, chest, lower back, depending on the location of the injury of a sharp, pointed character.
Muscle spasms.
Severe headaches.
Dizziness, fainting, due to spasm and clamping of the supply vessels.
Intercostal neuralgia.
The appearance of flies and sparkling spots in front of the eyes, especially when changing the position of the body.
Dry skin.
Increased or decreased sweating.
Cooling the skin of the lower extremities.
Sensations of discomfort and pain increase with physical effort, coughing, prolonged stay in the same position and exacerbation of chronic diseases. The development of the above symptoms requires urgent medical attention.
Stages of the disease
The modern medical classification distinguishes four degrees of the disease.
The first phase is characterized by the absence of clinical manifestations. Changes in the spine and intervertebral discs are compensated for by the body's reserve systems. In most cases, grade 1 osteochondrosis is diagnosed accidentally during a medical examination or during the examination of another disease.
In the second phase, patients complain of pain in the neck, chest or back. During this period, symptoms are effectively relieved by NSAIDs and therefore are not always a reason for patients to see a doctor.
The third stage is characterized by the addition of spinal deformities. Pathological curves, scoliosis or hump are formed. At this point, it is still possible to stabilize the patient's condition and delay the progression of the disease.
The fourth stage of osteochondrosis is accompanied by irreversible changes. The person suffers from terrible pain, movement restrictions, significant spinal deformities. This stage of the disease ends with the assignment of a disability group to the patient.
How to get rid of osteochondrosis forever
Therapy for osteochondrosis should be comprehensive. Currently, medications, physiotherapy and surgical methods are used.
In addition, to get rid of the disease, it is important to regularly take physiotherapy classes and take a massage course.
Since physiotherapeutic procedures, electrophoresis, exposure to ultrasound, reflexology are used. Mineral waters and curative sludge also have a beneficial effect on the diseased spine and, therefore, patients should regularly go to specialized sanatoriums.
Of the drugs in the early stages of the disease, painkillers and NSAIDs are the most used. These drugs effectively fight pain and relieve inflammation.
With the development of muscle spasm, patients are prescribed muscle relaxants.
It is also important to take vasodilators and vitamin complexes.
The most effective drugs, which not only relieve the symptoms of the disease, but also slow its progression, are chondroprotectors. They have a cumulative effect and prolonged action.
Chondroprotective groups:
Based on chondroitin-4-sulfate.
Mucopolysaccharide.
Glucosaminoglycan.
Based on marine organisms.
In addition, effective combined chondroprotective agents enriched with vitamins have been developed.
The drugs used to treat osteochondrosis can be used topically (in the form of gels and ointments) or systemically (orally, by injection).
To relieve symptoms, patients are advised to purchase an orthopedic mattress, pillow and sleeping leash. These devices help to maintain the correct position of the body at night, prevent muscle spasms and compress the vascular and nerve trunks.
Important! Do not self-medicate and, if you have characteristic symptoms, consult a specialist. Remember that osteochondrosis is a dangerous disease that can lead to permanent spinal deformities and even disability. The doctor will select a competent and comprehensive therapy that will quickly free you from the unpleasant manifestations of the disease and return to normal life.