Osteochondrosis is an inflammatory-dystrophic lesion of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs that, as the disease progresses, lose their elasticity, become rigid and infringe the nerve endings. As a result, persistent pain and edema develop.
The last stage of osteochondrosis is characterized by significant movement restrictions, which is 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 on different parts of the spine. And, in turn, it is caused by the following factors:
Improper posture and prolonged awkward posture.
Weakened back muscles.
Excessive exercise and heavy lifting.
Sorry for the inheritance.
Metabolic disorders (deficiency of phosphorus, magnesium, calcium and other trace elements).
Constant emotional stress.
Hypothermia.
Endocrine imbalance.
Spinal injuries (bruises, fractures).
Symptoms of osteochondrosis.
The main clinical manifestations of the disease:
Decreased sensation in the upper and lower extremities.
Severe pain syndrome in the neck, chest, lower back, depending on the location of the cutting, sharp and stabbing injury.
Muscle spasms.
Severe headaches
Dizziness, fainting, derived from spasms and pinching of the supply vessels.
Intercostal neuralgia.
The appearance of flies and blinking spots in front of the eyes, especially when changing body position.
Dry Skin.
Increased or decreased sweating.
Cooling of the skin of the lower extremities.
Feelings of discomfort and pain increase with physical exertion, coughing, prolonged stay in one 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 stage is characterized by the absence of clinical manifestations. Changes in the spinal column and intervertebral discs are compensated for by the body's reserve systems. In most cases, grade 1 osteochondrosis is accidentally diagnosed during a medical examination or during examination for another disease.
In the second stage, patients complain of pain in the neck, chest, or back. During this period, NSAIDs effectively relieve symptoms and are therefore not always a reason for patients to consult 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 slow down the progression of the disease.
The fourth stage of osteochondrosis is accompanied by irreversible changes. The person suffers from excruciating pain, movement restrictions, significant deformities of the spine. 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, medication, physiotherapy and surgical methods are used.
In addition, to get rid of the disease, it is important to regularly take physical therapy classes and undergo a course of massage.
From physiotherapeutic procedures, electrophoresis, ultrasound exposure, reflexology are used. Mineral waters and healing mud also have a beneficial effect on the diseased spine, so patients should regularly go to specialized sanatoriums.
Of the drugs in the early stages of the disease, pain relievers and NSAIDs are the most commonly 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 that not only relieve the symptoms of the disease, but also slow its progression are chondroprotectors. They have a cumulative effect and a prolonged action.
Chondroprotective groups:
Based on chondroitin-4-sulfate.
Mucopolysaccharide.
Glucosaminoglycan.
Based on marine organisms.
In addition, effective vitamin-enriched combined chondroprotective agents have now been developed.
Medications used to treat osteochondrosis can be used topically (in the form of gels and ointments) or systemically (orally, by injection).
To alleviate symptoms, patients are advised to purchase an orthopedic mattress, pillow, and sleeping collar. Such devices will help to maintain the correct position of the body at night, prevent muscle spasms, and tighten the vascular and nerve trunks.
Important! Do not self-medicate and if you experience characteristic symptoms, be sure to 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 relieve you of the unpleasant manifestations of the disease and return to normal life.