Osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis is a disease in whichdegenerative and dystrophic changes occur in the cartilaginous tissues of the spine, which is accompanied by damage to the functioning of the intervertebral discs.

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

Causes of osteochondrosis:

1. uneven load on the spine: carrying the bag on one shoulder or in one hand, incorrect sitting position, sleeping on too soft a mattress or high pillow, wearing uncomfortable shoes or high heels.
2. sedentary lifestyle, overweight.
3. injuries to the back and lower limbs.
4. flat feet.
5. physical overload of the body.
6. genetic predisposition.
7. posture 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, with active movement, etc.
2. Stage 2 osteochondrosis: noticeable discomfort and pain occurs with certain types of stress and movements.
3. Stage 3 osteochondrosis: movement stiffness occurs, tingling sensation, numbness of limbs, well-perceived pain in the back, neck, and lumbosacral region.
4. Stage 4 osteochondrosis: osteophytes are formed, new bone formations that improve the fixation of the vertebra, but in some cases the osteophytes can cause nerve pinching and damage to the vertebrae.

Symptoms of osteochondrosis:

1. intermittent feeling of back fatigue, severe neck, back, chest and shoulder girdle pain.
2. discomfort, stiffness of body movements.
3. headache, dizziness, increased fatigue.
4. pain in the area of the heart.lower back pain radiating to the legs.

Classification of osteochondrosis:

• osteochondrosis of cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral or mixed, combined types of diseases.

Diagnosis of osteochondrosis:

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

Treatment of osteochondrosis:

The therapy of the disease of osteochondrosis is carried out in two directions, depending on the degree of osteochondrosis and the patient's state of health.

Conservative treatment of osteochondrosis

Conservative therapy is aimed at relieving pain, normalizing the function of the spine 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 stroke;
5. paralysis of the lower limbs.

Prevention of osteochondrosis:

1. active lifestyle, fitness classes;
2. if you have to sit for a long time, choose the right chairs that support the spine, ensure compliance with the standards for the position of hands on the table, feet on the floor or a special stand, and learn to maintain posture;
3. orthopedic bedding;
4. choosing the right shoes;
5. a balanced diet and drinking system;
6. healthy lifestyle.