osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis is a disease in whichDegenerative and dystrophic changes occur in the cartilaginous tissues of the spine, accompanied by an alteration in the functionality of the intervertebral discs.

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: habits of carrying a bag on one shoulder or in one hand, incorrect sitting position, sleeping on a mattress that is too soft, a high pillow, wearing uncomfortable or high-heeled shoes.
2. sedentary lifestyle, excess weight.
3. Injuries to the back and lower extremities.
4. flat feet.
5. physical overstrain 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. Osteochondrosis stage 1: minor discomfort occurs when staying in an uncomfortable position for a long time, active movements, etc.
2. Stage 2 Osteochondrosis: Notable aches and pains occur with certain types of stress and movements.
3. Osteochondrosis stage 3: stiffness in movements appears, a tingling sensation, numbness may appear in the extremities, pain can be clearly felt in the back, neck and lumbosacral region.
4. Osteochondrosis stage 4: osteophytes form, new bone formations that improve the fixation of the vertebrae, but in some cases osteophytes can cause pinched nerves and damage 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.Lower back pain that radiates to the legs.

Osteochondrosis classification:

• osteochondrosis of cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral or mixed types of disease.

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 (MRI);
5. magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Treatment of osteochondrosis:

Therapy for the disease of osteochondrosis is carried out in two directions, depending on the degree of osteochondrosis and the state of health of the patient.

Conservative treatment of osteochondrosis.

Conservative therapy is aimed at relieving pain, normalizing the functionality of the spine and preventing negative changes.

1. drug therapy;
2. physiotherapy (ultrasonic waves, low frequency currents, etc.);
3. physiotherapy (physiotherapy);
4. massage;manual therapy;
5. balanced nutrition, 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 need to sit for a long time, you need to choose suitable chairs that provide support for the spine, ensure compliance with the standards for the position of hands on the table, feet on the floor or special support and learn to maintain posture;
3. orthopedic bedding;
4. choose the right shoes;
5. balanced nutrition and drinking regimen;
6. healthy lifestyle.