Osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis is a diseasedegenerative and dystrophic changes occur in the cartilaginous tissues of the spine, accompanied by dysfunction of the intervertebral discs.

Osteochondrosis is divided into cervical, thoracic and lumbar regions.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 one hand, incorrect sitting position, sleeping on an overly soft mattress, high pillow, wearing uncomfortable shoes or high heels.
2. sedentary lifestyle, overweight.
3. damage to the back and lower limbs.
4. straight legs.
5. physical overload of the body.
6. genetic predisposition.
7. postural disorders during active growth, scoliosis.
8. nutrition, diet.
9. bad habits.
10. pregnancy.

Stages of development of osteochondrosis

1. Stage 1 osteochondrosis: minor discomfort, prolonged restlessness, active movement, etc.
2. Stage 2 osteochondrosis: noticeable discomfort and pain occurs with certain types of stress and movements.
3. The 3rd stage of osteochondrosis: there is stiffness in movements, a feeling of cramping, numbness in the limbs, pain in the back, neck and lower back can be clearly felt.
4. Stage 4 osteochondrosis: osteophytes are formed, new bone formations that improve the fixation of the vertebrae, but in some cases osteophytes can cause compressed 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. anxiety, stiffness of body movements.
3. headache, dizziness, increased fatigue.
4. pain in the heart region.back pain that spreads to the legs.

Classification of osteochondrosis:

• osteochondrosis of cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral or mixed, combined diseases.

Diagnosis of osteochondrosis:

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

Treatment of osteochondrosis:

Treatment of osteochondrosis is carried out in two ways, depending on the degree of osteochondrosis and the patient's health.

Conservative treatment of osteochondrosis

Conservative therapy aims to relieve pain, normalize the functionality of the spine and prevent negative changes.

1. drug treatment;
2. physiotherapy (ultrasound waves, low-frequency currents, etc.);
3. physical therapy (physical therapy);
4. massage;manual therapy;
5. balanced nutrition, diet.

Complications of osteochondrosis:

1. herniated disc;
2. radiculitis;
3. salt deposits in the intervertebral space;
4. spinal cord strokes;
5. paralysis of the lower extremities.

Prevention of osteochondrosis:

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