Osteochondrosis is an inflammatory-dystrophic lesion of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs, which, as the disease progresses, lose their elasticity, stiffen and violate nerve endings. As a result, edema and persistent pain develop.
The last stage of osteochondrosis is characterized by significant limitations of movement, which is the basis for establishing the patient's disability group.
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, in turn, it is provoked by the following factors:
Bad posture and prolonged uncomfortable posture.
Weakened back muscles.
Excessive exercise and heavy lifting.
Weighted inheritance.
Metabolic disorders (deficiency of phosphorus, magnesium, calcium and other trace elements).
Constant emotional stress.
Hypothermia.
Endocrine imbalance.
Injuries to the spine (bruises, fractures).
Symptoms of osteochondrosis
The main clinical manifestations of the disease:
Decreased sensitivity in the upper and lower limbs.
Severe pain syndrome in the neck, chest, lower back, depending on the location of the lesion of a sharp, sharp and shooting character.
Muscle spasms.
Severe headaches.
Dizziness, fainting, resulting from spasms and blockage 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 limbs.
The sensations of discomfort and pain 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 for by the body's reserve systems. In most cases, Grade 1 osteochondrosis is accidentally diagnosed during a doctor's visit or during examination for another disease.
In the second stage, patients complain of pain in the neck, chest or back. During this time, symptoms are effectively relieved by NSAIDs and therefore are not always a reason for patients to seek medical attention.
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, limitations in movement, 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
Osteochondrosis therapy should be comprehensive. Currently, drugs, physiotherapy and surgical methods are used.
In addition, to get rid of the disease, it is important to regularly conduct physical therapy courses and undergo a massage course.
From physiotherapeutic procedures, electrophoresis, ultrasound exposure, reflexology are used. Mineral waters and healing muds also have a beneficial effect on the diseased spine, so patients must regularly go to specialized sanatoriums.
Among 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.
Chondroprotective groups:
Based on chondroitin-4-sulphate.
Mucopolysaccharide.
Glucosaminoglycan.
Based on marine organisms.
In addition, 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 to maintain the correct position of the body at night, avoid muscle spasms and compress 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 spinal deformities and even disabilities. The doctor will select a competent and comprehensive therapy that will quickly relieve you of the unpleasant manifestations of the disease and return to normal life.