Osteochondrosis is an inflammatory-dystrophic lesion of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs that, as the disease progresses, loses its elasticity, becomes stiff and injures the nerve endings. As a result, edema and persistent pain develop.
The last stage of osteochondrosis is characterized by significant restrictions on movement, which form the basis for determining the disability group of the patient.
Causes of the disease
According to most doctors, the main reason for developing osteochondrosis is uneven loading of different parts of the spine. And, in turn, it is provoked by the following factors:
Bad posture and prolonged uncomfortable posture.
Weakened back muscles.
Excessive movement and heavy lifting.
Heredity complains.
Metabolic disorders (lack 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 sensitivity in the upper and lower extremities.
Severe pain syndrome in the neck, chest and lower back, depending on the location of the lesion of a cutting, sharp, shooting character.
Muscle spasms.
Strong headache.
Dizziness, fainting, cramping, and jamming of the supply vessels.
Intercostal neuralgia.
The appearance of flies and flickering spots in front of the eyes, especially when changing posture.
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
The modern medical classification distinguishes four degrees of disease.
The first stage is characterized by the absence of clinical manifestations. Changes in the spine and intervertebral discs are compensated for by the body's own reserve systems. In most cases, Grade 1 osteochondrosis is mistakenly diagnosed during a medical exam or while being checked for another disease.
In the second stage, patients complain of pain in the neck, chest, or back. During this time, NSAIDs are effective in relieving symptoms and are therefore not always a reason for patients to see a doctor.
The third stage is characterized by the addition of spinal deformities. Pathological curves, scoliosis or humps are formed. At this point, it is still possible to stabilize the patient's condition and slow the progression of the disease.
The fourth stage of osteochondrosis is accompanied by irreversible changes. The person suffers from excruciating pain, restricted mobility and 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. Medicines, physiotherapy and surgical methods are currently used.
To get rid of the disease, it is also important to regularly conduct physical therapy classes and undergo massage.
Physiotherapy procedures use electrophoresis, ultrasound exposure, and reflexology. Mineral water and healing mud also have a positive effect on the diseased spine. Therefore, patients must regularly go to specialized sanatoriums.
Of the drugs in the early stages of the disease, the most often used are analgesics and NSAIDs. These drugs are effective in fighting pain and reducing inflammation.
With the development of muscle spasms, 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 effect.
Chondroprotector groups:
Based on chondroitin-4-sulfate.
Mucopolysaccharide.
Glucosaminoglycan.
Based on marine organisms.
Effective combined chondroprotective agents fortified with vitamins have now also been developed.
Medicines for the treatment of 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 help maintain the correct position of the body at night, avoid muscle spasms and squeeze the vascular and nerve trunks.
Important! Do not self-medicate and be sure to consult a specialist if you have characteristic symptoms. Remember that osteochondrosis is a dangerous disease that can lead to permanent deformities of the spine and even disability. The doctor will choose a competent and comprehensive therapy that will quickly get you rid of unpleasant manifestations of the disease and return to normal life.