Osteochondrosis is an inflammatory-dystrophic lesion of the vertebral and intervertebral discs, which, as the disease progresses, loses its elasticity, becomes stiff and violates nerve endings. As a result, edema and pain continue to develop.
The last stage of osteochondrosis is characterized by significant restriction of movement, which is the basis for establishing a disability group of patients.
The cause 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, provoked by the following factors:
Weak posture and prolonged uncomfortable posture.
Weak back muscles.
Excessive exercise and weight lifting.
Descending offspring.
Metabolic disorders (deficiency of phosphorus, magnesium, calcium and other trace elements).
Constant emotional stress.
Hypothermia.
Endocrine imbalance.
Spinal cord injuries (bruises, fractures).
Symptoms of osteochondrosis
The main clinical manifestations of this disease:
Sensitivity decreases at the top and bottom.
Severe pain syndrome in the neck, chest, lower back, depending on the location of the lesion of the cutting, sharp and shooting character.
Muscle cramp.
Severe headache.
Dizziness, fainting, caused by spasm and pinching of the supply channel.
Intercostal neuralgia.
The appearance of flies and spots blink in front of the eyes, especially when changing body position.
Dry skin.
Sweating increased or decreased.
Cools the skin of the lower legs.
Discomfort and pain increase with physical exercise, coughing, prolonged stay in one position and exacerbation of chronic diseases. The development of the above symptoms requires immediate medical attention.
The stage of the disease
Modern medical classifications distinguish four degrees of disease.
The first stage is characterized by the absence of clinical manifestations. Changes in the spine and intervertebral discs are compensated by the body’s storage system. In most cases, grade 1 osteochondrosis is inadvertently diagnosed during a medical examination or during screening for other diseases.
In the second stage, the patient complains of pain in the neck, chest or back. During this period, these symptoms can be effectively resolved by NSAIDs, 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 bumps are formed. At this stage, 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 suffered from unusual pain, restriction of movement, significant deformity of the spine. This stage of the disease ends with the assignment of the disability group to the patient.
How to get rid of osteochondrosis forever
Therapy for osteochondrosis should be comprehensive. Currently, medical, physiotherapy and surgical methods are used.
Also, to get rid of this disease, it is important to hold regular physical therapy classes and undergo massages.
From physiotherapeutic procedures, electrophoresis, ultrasound exposure, reflexology are used. Mineral waters and curative mud also have a good effect on the diseased spine, and therefore patients must regularly go to specialized sanatoriums.
Of the medications in the early stages of the disease, analgesics and NSAIDs are most often used. This medicine is effective against pain and relieving inflammation.
With the development of muscle spasms, patients are given muscle relaxants.
It is 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 cumulative effects and lasting action.
Chondroprotector Group:
Based on chondroitin-4-sulfate.
Mucopolysaccharide.
Glucosaminoglycans.
Based on marine organisms.
Also, effective combination chondroprotective agents enriched with vitamins have now been developed.
Medications used to treat osteochondrosis can be applied topically (in the form of gels and ointments) or systematically (orally, by injection).
To relieve symptoms, patients are advised to purchase orthopedic mattresses, pillows and sleeping collars. Such a device will help maintain proper body position at night, prevent muscle spasms and squeeze vascular and nerve trunks.
Important! Do not self -medicate and if you experience any symptoms, be sure to see a specialist. Remember that osteochondrosis is a dangerous disease that can lead to permanent spinal deformities and even deformities. The doctor will choose an efficient and comprehensive therapy that will quickly rid you of unpleasant manifestations of the disease and return to normal life.