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 to 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 too soft a mattress, a high pillow, wearing uncomfortable shoes or high-heeled shoes.
2. sedentary lifestyle, excess weight.
3. injuries to the back and lower limbs.
4. flat feet.
5. physical overwork 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 during prolonged stay in an uncomfortable position, active movement, etc.
2. Stage 2 osteochondrosis: Noticeable discomfort and pain occurs with certain types of stress and movement.
3. Osteochondrosis stage 3: stiffness in movements appears, a tingling sensation, numbness may occur in the limbs, pain in the back, neck and lumbosacral region can be clearly felt.
4. Stage 4 osteochondrosis: Osteophytes form, new bone formations that improve the attachment of the vertebra, but in some cases osteophytes can cause pinching of the 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.pain in the lower back radiating to the legs.

Classification of osteochondrosis:

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

Diagnosis of osteochondrosis:

1. Radiological 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:

Treatment of osteochondrosis is carried out in two directions, depending on the degree of osteochondrosis and the patient's health status.

Conservative treatment of osteochondrosis

Conservative therapy aims to relieve pain, normalize the functionality of the spine and prevent negative changes.

1. drug therapy;
2. physiotherapy (ultrasound waves, low frequency currents, etc.);
3. physiotherapy (physiotherapy);
4. massage;manual therapy;
5. balanced diet, 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 have to sit for a long time, you need to choose the right chairs that support the spine, take care of compliance with the norms regarding the position of your hands on the table, your feet on the floor or on a special support, and learn to maintain your posture;
3. orthopedic bedding;
4. choose the right shoes;
5. balanced diet and drinking regime;
6. healthy lifestyle.