Osteochondrosis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

For a long time, osteochondrosis was a disease of the elderly. But a sedentary lifestyle, overeating, bad habits significantly rejuvenate this disease. Even in children, posture disorders, weak spinal muscles are often observed. All this leads to irreversible changes in the spine.

What is osteochondrosis

The disease can affect the cervix, chest, lumbar spine. Pathology occurs due to disruption of physiological processes in the cells of the discs and spine. The structure of the tissues changes, the elasticity is lost. In the future, as the interval between vertebrae narrows, certain vertebral segments become unstable.

Osteochondrosis can lead to serious complications:

• Protrusion of disk segments;
• Hernia;
• კიფოზი;
• Scoliosis;
• Paresis;
• Paralysis

ᲛImportant!The diagnosis of osteochondrosis is quite difficult. Frequent headaches, sudden increase in pressure, feeling of muscle heaviness, dizziness with sudden movements can be a hidden manifestation of this disease.

Symptoms of the disease

The disease has 4 groups of symptoms. Let’s take a look at each of them.

Statistical

These manifestations are associated with a violation of the physiological shape of the spine. In this case, there is a violation of posture, the person has difficulty turning his head, he can not fully straighten his spine.

Neurological

The disease is characterized by damage to nerve tissues. This disrupts the sensitivity of the skin, reducing the intensity of muscle contraction.

In the initial stage of the disease the pain is manifested locally, only in the affected side. But when the pathology begins to progress, the pain syndrome affects distant areas. In this case, a goose, bumps, numbness may appear.

Vascular

These symptoms can occur for the following reasons:

• The blood vessels are compressed. Most often it occurs with damage to the cervical spine. The result can be oxygen deficiency in certain areas of the brain, dizziness, often nausea;
• Changes in the sympathetic nervous system. Characterized by prolonged spasms and chronic ischemia in the internal organs.

ᲛImportant!There are also trophic symptoms of the disease - it is a symbiosis of vascular and neurological factors, leading to the appearance of skin defects and ulcers.

Causes of osteochondrosis

Physical inactivity, bad habits, excess weight most often lead to the development of osteochondrosis.

Other factors that affect the likelihood of illness are:

• Genetic predisposition - People with poor heredity make a lot of efforts to prevent this disease;
• Improper metabolism, intoxication, poor environmental conditions;
• malformed spine - children from childhood sit incorrectly, which leads to poor posture. Recovery can begin at any age, preferably by swimming;
• Constant spinal stress caused by heavy physical labor;
• Frequent stress and prolonged nervous tension;
• Painful and bent legs.

ᲛImportant!Women are more susceptible to this disease. The reason is constant changes in the hormonal background caused by pregnancy or menstruation. Diet, some weight loss products and uncomfortable shoes can provoke osteochondrosis.

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine

This disease is one of the most common pathologies of the musculoskeletal system.

People spend more and more time in a sitting position, concentrating on one point, the neck is in a motionless position. All this leads to the emergence of disease. Often osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is the result of an old lesion. This disease is very common in professional athletes.

Such osteochondrosis begins with prolonged headaches, which can not be eliminated with the help of conventional analgesics. The pain is reflected in the occipital region and temples. Discomfort may worsen after sleep or prolonged sedentary work.

What else could indicate the development of cervical osteochondrosis:

• Sensitivity in the shoulder girdle and arms is impaired, in advanced cases the upper limbs may be completely paralyzed;
• The blood supply to different parts of the brain is disrupted, tinnitus occurs and the head is often dizzy. In the future, some parts of the brain may be completely deprived of nutrition;
• Sight begins to fall, patients complain of the appearance of flies in front of the eyes;
• Older people may suddenly lose consciousness;
• If the blind nerve is constantly irritated, then marked seizures, shortness of breath;
• The neck loses mobility.

ᲛImportant!Cervical osteochondrosis is not completely cured. It is necessary to change the usual course of life, to take preventive measures. You can also learn how to treat cervical osteochondrosis at home.

Osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine

The lumbar spine is characterized by increased mobility and strong constant loads. Anyone can get this disease; Lifestyle and profession really do not matter.

1. Many people, by the nature of their service, have to be in a bent position for a long time. It almost always causes osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine.
2. Spinal cord injury can lead to osteochondrosis. If you do not exercise properly, you can damage the spine.
3. In case of abrupt cessation of load on the intervertebral joints, degenerative processes begin. Which also causes osteochondrosis.

Signs of a affected lumbar spine include:

• Pain and lumbago in the legs and lumbar region that increases after physical exertion;
• There is numbness of the skin in the lower extremities, paresis and paralysis may occur;
• The skin in the painful areas begins to peel;
• Impaired pelvic functions, is a problem with erection and urination.

Lumbar osteochondrosis is the most dangerous, often causing complications. Unstable vertebrates can fly at any time. Which will cause damage to internal organs.

Osteochondritis of the spine

More than 70% of back pain complaints are related to osteochondrosis. Spinal tissue dystrophy is congenital in every second inhabitant of the planet whose age has exceeded 30 years.

Injuries, heavy physical exertion, working in conditions of constant vibration can provoke the manifestation of the disease.

The disease has characteristic symptoms:

• Painful, chronic pain that causes an increase in fatigue, an increase in discomfort occurs during weight lifting, sudden movements, coughing, and wheezing;
• The affected spine begins to numb;
• The range of motion decreases.

ᲛImportant!Cartilage and bone tissue have the ability to self-renew. Moderate, regular exercise helps to strengthen the spinal muscles, increase blood circulation.

Chest osteochondrosis

Often, abnormal changes in the cervical and thoracic spine segments occur simultaneously.

Pain syndrome is practically not congenital in thoracic osteochondrosis. Therefore, many may not even be aware of the existence of the disease. If pain occurs, then the sensations are manifested in the intercostal space and in the mouse, sometimes in the upper abdomen.

The first symptoms of the disease are similar to a heart attack, inflammation of the gallbladder, gastritis or gastric ulcer. With osteochondrosis, the pain increases with torsion, deep breathing, and coughing.

In the future, the disease is manifested by reflex tension of the muscles in the abdomen and upper spine. If the disease progresses to a stage, men may develop erectile dysfunction.

Which doctor is treating you

Osteochondrosis has many clinical manifestations. The patient should visit different specialists to understand the cause of the disease. You should consult a neurologist and orthopedist for a correct diagnosis. Private clinics provide vertebrologist services.

Attention! Learn more about doctor appointments.

At the end of the interview, the specialist will examine the spine and surrounding soft tissues in different positions, determining the degree of mobility of each section. Instrumental examination plays a crucial role in diagnosis.

Computed tomography, X-ray, and examination using magnetic resonance imaging are then prescribed.

ᲛImportant!In addition to the spine, the work of blood vessels and peripheral nerves is analyzed.

Home treatment

Treatment of this disease by folk methods is recognized as effective even in traditional medicine. Discipline of the patient, his use of different techniques can significantly reduce the time required for the recovery of spinal tissues.

You need to start by reviewing your diet. Excess cholesterol causes disruption of blood flow, blood vessels lose elasticity, this leads to the development of osteochondrosis. Therefore, fatty foods, eggs, rich broth, pork should be excluded and the skin should be removed from the chicken.

The patient should avoid addictions, reduce the consumption of caffeinated beverages.

The most effective treatment at home is:

• Daily performance of an individual complex of physiotherapeutic exercises;
• Self-massage - includes rubbing and rubbing, well helps Shiatsu;
• Use of specially designed devices and applicators;
• Exposure to magnetic field - This helps to improve blood circulation to the muscles. The magnet is selected by a specialist, the application method is easy to master;
• Massage beds have recently appeared on the market.

ᲛImportant!Self-employment in the treatment of osteochondrosis is very dangerous. Therefore, even when choosing a home therapy, you should listen to your doctor's recommendations.

Medical treatment

To relieve pain, other symptoms of osteochondrosis, your doctor may prescribe analgesics. Analgesic spots are used to treat neuropathic syndromes. They contain lidocaine, which relieves any painful sensations.

1. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are designed to relieve inflammation, they act strongly and effectively. But the side effects do not allow taking such medications for a long time.
2. You can use harmless but equally effective warming ointments to relieve pain.
3. If the pain persists for more than 3 months, your doctor may prescribe antidepressants. They have a calming effect, reduce the manifestation of pain.

Restoration of intervertebral discs and cartilage is important during treatment. Hondoprotectors are designed for this. They should be taken for at least 4 months.

1. To improve blood circulation, a special drug has been shown to be taken in combination with nicotine and thioctic acid-containing medications.
2. Diuretics help relieve swelling.
3. It is also necessary to take B vitamins and calcium during treatment.

Injections

In lumbar osteochondrosis, a special block is made to relieve the pain. The specialist uses a long needle to insert the painkiller. The procedure allows you to temporarily relieve the pain, but there is no therapeutic effect.

1. Muscle relaxants are used to relieve spasms.
2. Chondroitin sulfate helps to restore cartilage tissue.
3. Vitamin B is injected to restore the nervous system in the affected areas.
4. Modern non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used to treat inflammation that do not damage the stomach and intestines.

Doctors believe that oral medication is the most effective method of treating osteochondrosis. Injections are done only in a hospital setting.

ᲛImportant!A systemic approach is needed to get rid of osteochondrosis. It is impossible to partially fulfill the purpose of a specialist. Only strict adherence to the treatment regimen can guarantee a positive result.

Treatment with folk remedies

Herbalists offer a variety of natural remedies for treating osteochondrosis.

Water procedures

Herbal baths help relieve pain and inflammation. A good healing effect is observed after using a nettle broom in the bathroom.

The following fees are good for the bathroom:

• Mix birch leaves (270 g) with mint and lemon balm (55 g each). Pour the mixture into 7 liters of boiling water. After cooling pour in water;
• Boil 1500 g of coniferous or pine cones in 5 liters of water for half an hour.

Compresses

For the preparation of compresses, suitable black radish, pumpkin root, garlic. The mass should be applied to the affected side, carefully moving. Keep it as long as possible.

To relieve pain you can make a compress by mixing chopped raw potatoes and honey in equal proportions. Keep on the sore spot for at least an hour.

Decoctions and infusions

Conventional laurel decoction treatment is quite effective. But it is necessary to strictly follow the scheme.

1. Bay leaf (4 g) should be filled with water (240 ml).
2. Boil for 4 minutes. Insist in a warm place for 3 hours.
3. The drug should be taken slowly before bedtime.
4. Repeat the procedure for another 2 days. The broth should always be prepared clean.
5. Rest for a week. Then repeat the treatment.

Two sessions are enough to avoid discomfort throughout the year.

Celery

Celery infusion will help get rid of salt deposits. This drink is rich in vitamins. To prepare it you will need 4 g of ground roots and 950 ml of slightly chilled boiling water. The mixture should be infused overnight.

After which it had to be filtered. Take 7 ml three times a day. During the season you can prepare fresh juice from celery roots. You can use three times a day, 12 ml.

Ointments and abrasions

Ginger ointment

This medicine helps Lumbago.

1. Melt the ginger powder using melted butter.
2. Grill fresh garlic.
3. Mix the components in equal parts.
4. The ointment should be rubbed on the affected side.

Oregano rub

Place 25 g of chopped oregano in a 450 ml oil container. It is best to use olive or sunflower oil. Leave the product to ripen for 8 hours. Squeeze the grass and throw away.

Grinding is suitable for the treatment of all types of osteochondrosis.

Exercises during osteochondrosis

Physiotherapy is an integral part of treating osteochondrosis. The complex is compiled by a specialist. This takes into account the diagnosis, the degree of stress, and the patient’s level of physical fitness.

All exercises are performed for 4 minutes.

A set of exercises for the treatment of cervical spine pathologies

1. Start on your back. One hand is placed on the abdomen, the other on the chest. Breathe as deeply as you can, hold your breath. Exhale and relax as you count to 10. You can do 5 approaches a day.
2. Lie on your stomach, straighten your legs. Slowly lift your head and upper chest. Come down and rest for half a minute.
3. Lie on your back, with your feet at the knee joints. Scroll right and then left without changing the starting position.

In gymnastics for osteochondrosis of the chest

1. Start on the abdomen, focusing on the arms. Lean back, fix the position, count to 10 and rest for 20 seconds.
2. Lie on your back, lift your head and legs at the same time. Hold for 15 seconds. Rest for 20 seconds between workouts.

Exercises for lumbar spine injuries

1. Lie on your back, attach your legs to your chest. Roll from the back to the sac for 2 minutes. Then calm down and start quietly.
2. Rejoice in all four.
3. In a standing position, make circular motions, imitating the rotation of the hoop.

ᲛImportant!In the acute stage of the disease, physical education should not be used.

Massage during osteochondrosis

Classic massage is performed only in specialized rooms by trained people.

honey

You can do honey massage at home. To do this, warm honey should be applied to the affected area. Then gently press and lift the palms out of the massage segment. This procedure is best done after a visit to the bathroom. At the end of the session, the back should be covered with compressed paper and carefully wrapped.

Vacuum massage

Good results are observed after vacuum massage stuffing. To do this, vegetable, mineral oil is applied to the back. Then a special medical bank makes moving movements along certain trajectories. This procedure helps to improve blood circulation, the inflamed areas are enriched with oxygen and nutrients and the regeneration process begins.

Disease prevention

Osteochondrosis can be prevented with regular prophylactic measures.

ᲛImportant!Swimming and hardening is the best preventative measure.

1. It is also necessary to strengthen the muscular corset with special exercises.
2. Proper, balanced nutrition is also important.
3. With frequent stressful situations, hypothermia can accelerate the development of the disease.
4. Women and children should not constantly carry weight in one hand.
5. Long stay at the computer or TV is also contraindicated. Every 30 minutes you have to stand up, lift your head, warm up.

Pain is often caused by improper removal. This should be done with slight tingling and not bending. If you have to stand for a long time, then the support leg should be changed periodically. At every opportunity, lean on the back of the object to relieve tension.

ᲛImportant!For the prevention of osteochondrosis you should buy orthopedic items for sleeping.

A large number of people suffer from osteochondrosis. There are many methods of its treatment. But it is better to carry out prevention in time than long-term treatment.