Osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis is a disease in whichdegenerative and dystrophic changes occur in the cartilaginous tissues of the spine, accompanied by impaired 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: habits of carrying a bag on one shoulder or in one hand, incorrect sitting position, sleeping on an overly soft mattress, high pillow, wearing uncomfortable shoes or high-heeled shoes.
2. sedentary lifestyle, excess weight.
3. injuries to the back and lower extremities.
4. flat feet.
5. physical overstrain 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: minor discomfort occurs when staying in an uncomfortable position for a long time, active movement, etc.
2. Stage 2 osteochondrosis: noticeable discomfort and pain occur with certain types of stress and movements.
3. Stage 3 osteochondrosis: stiffness in movements appears, a feeling of tingling, numbness may occur in the limbs, pain in the back, neck, and lumbosacral region can be clearly felt.
4. Stage 4 osteochondrosis: osteophytes are formed, new bone formations that improve the fixation of the vertebra, but in some cases osteophytes can cause pinched nerves and injure 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. headaches, 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, combined types of 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 condition.

Conservative treatment of osteochondrosis

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

1. drug therapy;
2. physiotherapy (ultrasound 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 strokes;
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 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 nutrition and drinking regime;
6. healthy lifestyle.