Osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis is a disease in whichDegenerative and dystrophic changes occur in the cartilaginous tissue of the spine, accompanied by impaired function of the intervertebral disc.

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

Reasons for the development of osteochondrosis:

1. uneven load on the spine: the habit of carrying a bag on one shoulder or one hand, wrong sitting position, sleeping on a mattress that is too soft, high pillows, wearing uncomfortable shoes or high-heeled shoes.
2. sedentary lifestyle, overweight.
3. injuries to the back and lower legs.
4. flat feet
5. physical fatigue.
6. genetic predisposition.
7. Postural disorders during the period of active growth, scoliosis.
8. malnutrition, diet.
9. bad habits.
10. pregnancy.

Stages of development of osteochondrosis

1. Stage 1 osteochondrosis: minor discomfort occurs when being in an uncomfortable position for a long time, active movement, etc.
2. Stage 2 osteochondrosis: significant discomfort and pain occurs with certain types of pressure and movement.
3. Stage 3 osteochondrosis: stiffness in movement appears, tingling, numbness may occur in the limbs, pain in the back, neck, and lumbosacral area can be clearly felt.
4. Stage 4 osteochondrosis: osteophytes are formed, new bone formation that improves the fixation of the vertebrae, but in some cases osteophytes can cause pinched 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. headache, dizziness, increased fatigue.
4. pain in the heart area.back pain spreads to the legs.

Classification of osteochondrosis:

• cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral or mixed disease type osteochondrosis, combined.

Diagnosis of osteochondrosis:

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

Treatment of osteochondrosis:

Therapy for 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 aims to relieve pain, normalize spinal function and prevent negative changes.

1. drug therapy;
2. physiotherapy (ultrasound waves, low frequency current, etc.);
3. physical therapy (physical therapy);
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 stroke;
5. lower limb paralysis.

Prevention of osteochondrosis:

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