Osteochondrosis is an inflammatory-dystrophic lesion of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs, which, as the disease progresses, lose their elasticity, become rigid and infringe on the nerve endings. As a result, edema and persistent pain develop.
The last stage of osteochondrosis is characterized by significant movement restrictions, which is the basis for establishing a disability group for a patient.
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 it, in turn, is provoked by the following factors:
Poor posture and prolonged uncomfortable posture.
Weakened back muscles.
Excessive exercise and heavy lifting.
Weighed down heredity.
Metabolic disorders (deficiency of phosphorus, magnesium, calcium and other trace elements).
Constant emotional stress.
Hypothermia.
Endocrine imbalance.
Spine injuries (bruises, fractures).
Symptoms of osteochondrosis
The main clinical manifestations of the disease:
Decreased sensitivity in the upper and lower extremities.
Severe pain syndrome in the neck, chest, lower back, depending on the location of the lesion of a cutting, sharp, shooting character.
Muscle spasms.
Severe headaches.
Dizziness, fainting, arising from spasm and clamping of the supply vessels.
Intercostal neuralgia.
The appearance of flies and flickering spots in front of the eyes, especially when changing the position of the body.
Dry skin.
Increased or decreased sweating.
Cooling of the skin of the lower extremities.
Discomfort and pain sensations 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
Modern medical classification distinguishes four degrees of the disease.
The first stage is characterized by the absence of clinical manifestations. Changes in the spine and intervertebral discs are compensated by the body's reserve systems. In most cases, grade 1 osteochondrosis is diagnosed accidentally 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, the symptoms are effectively removed by NSAIDs, and therefore are 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, restrictions on movement, significant deformities of the spinal column. 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.
Also, to get rid of the disease, it is important to regularly carry out physiotherapy exercises 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, and therefore patients must regularly go to specialized sanatoriums.
Of the drugs in the early stages of the disease, analgesics and NSAIDs are most often 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 down its progression are chondroprotectors. They have a cumulative effect and prolonged action.
Chondroprotector groups:
Based on chondroitin-4-sulfate.
Mucopolysaccharide.
Glucosaminoglycan.
Based on marine organisms.
Also, effective combined chondroprotective agents enriched with vitamins have now been developed.
Medicines 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 sleep collar. Such devices will help maintain the correct position of the body at night, avoid muscle spasm and compression of 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 deformities of the spine and even disability. The doctor will select a competent and comprehensive therapy that will quickly relieve you of unpleasant manifestations of the disease and return to normal life.