Why does thoracic osteochondrosis occur and how is it treated?

Thoracic osteochondrosis is an inflammatory disease that accompanies the development of pathological processes in the intervertebral discs. Complications of the disease include protrusions and degenerative changes in adjacent tissues. Osteochondrosis can be difficult to recognize because it "masks" symptoms such as gastritis, heart disease, or stomach ulcers.

Disease characteristics

Chest osteochondrosis is a complex of intervertebral disc diseases. They shrink and gradually lose their properties. This can cause nervousness.

According to ICD-10, this disease belongs to the "dorsal disease" group with code M-42, localization.

In the early stages of the disease, it can be examined and treated by local doctors. If the disease progresses, the patient is referred to a highly qualified specialist (neurologist). Often, a professional massage therapist can provide relief for patients with thoracic osteochondrosis symptoms. If complications arise, it cannot be done without the help of a surgeon.

reason

Most commonly, this pathology manifests itself in older people. In recent years, however, osteochondrosis in the thoracic region has more commonly affected younger patients.The development of the disease is caused by several causes:

• excessive physical activity;
• Work involving lifting heavy objects;
• forcing uncomfortable positions for long periods of time;
• Congenital spinal curvature and acquired postural disorders;
• Incorrect diet;
• overweight;
• age-related changes;
• Metabolic problems.

Other factors that contribute to the development of osteochondrosis in the chest area include chronic disease and genetic factors. To avoid pathology and possible complications, you need to eliminate the cause. Experts say this problem is caused in most cases by an unhealthy lifestyle.

extent and symptoms

Osteochondrosis of the chest is characterized by specific symptoms. The patient suffered from muscle spasms and intercostal neuralgia. The pain may be localized in one spot on the chest and then quickly spread throughout the chest. As a result, a person has difficulty breathing and he can only sit or lie down in a certain posture.The pain worsens when you turn your head, move your neck, raise your arms, and bend down. Any movement of the neck can cause discomfort (especially at night). There may be painful contractions of the muscles in the shoulder girdle and lower back.Taking into account the degree of disc deformation, the following degrees of development can be distinguished:

• first levelIn the first stage, the elasticity (stiffness) of the disc and its height decrease. Possible sign of protrusion (bulging) of the annulus fibrosus (hard shell with a semi-fluid core). The cartilage tissue of the vertebrae becomes denser. Pain in the form of "low back pain" may occur during sudden movements or after remaining in one position for a long time.dosago- Characteristic symptoms of this stage. It manifests as sudden severe pain in the chest. It often occurs when a person stands up (difficulty breathing).back pain- Mild, non-sharp pain. It appears gradually and usually lasts 2 to 3 weeks. The condition can get worse after a sudden bend or physical exertion. Back pain is accompanied by muscle tightness and limited movement. The pain will lessen after a short walk.Also at this stage, neurological symptoms are also recognized:
  1. A "pins and needles" sensation on the surface of the legs, abdomen, and chest;
  2. Numbness or tingling in certain areas of the skin;
  3. Gastrointestinal dysfunction.
• second degreeThe height and elasticity of the intervertebral disc are further reduced. The thoracic spine becomes unstable and the annulus fibrosus develops cracks.Painful feeling:
  1. Chest appears after overexertion or physical exertion;
  2. in upper back;
  3. when raising arms;
  4. While breathing (inhaling and exhaling).
  Phantom pain in the heart area and intestinal dysfunction may also occur.
• Three degreesThe formation of intervertebral hernia continues. Abdominal and back pain, intercostal neuralgia (may be aggravated by breathing, sudden movements, and coughing).One of the symptoms of osteochondrosis is cough. The overall mobility of the spine is reduced, the diaphragm is squeezed, and there is a feeling of lack of air. A severe dry cough is especially dangerous because the vertebral arteries are located in the neck. If compressed, there is a risk of ischemia and stroke.
• Level 4In stage four, the disc no longer acts as a shock absorber. The spine loses its mobility. May pinch blood vessels and nerves. Bone tissue is susceptible to damage.

diagnosis

Chest osteochondrosis is difficult to diagnose because it "masquerades" (similar) symptoms to other conditions.In order to make an accurate diagnosis, you will need to undergo several studies:

• ultrasound;
• X-ray;
• MRI;
• Blood analysis.

traditional treatment

To eliminate chest pain and inflammation, medication can be used. To relieve pain during exacerbations, intravenous or intramuscular injections may be given. Treatment of osteochondrosis requires the use of drugs containing an enzyme of plant origin (papain). This substance helps improve the structure of cartilage tissue.

1. chondroprotectant. This is a group of drugs used to restore joint cartilage. The basis of most products are active substances - glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate.
2. Antispasmodics and muscle relaxants.Drugs that reduce muscle tone. By acting on receptors in this way, they relieve unhealthy muscle tension that causes pain and cramps.
3. painkiller.Reduces symptoms of disease - inflammation and pain. These drugs work by blocking the synthesis of certain enzymes.
4. Vitamin therapy.The most common are vitamins A, B, D, C, and E, which restore cartilage tissue, strengthen the immune system, and have anti-inflammatory effects.
5. massage.Patients with this condition need to undergo restorative massage sessions at least 2 times a year. This surgery is usually not performed during an exacerbation of the disease. The procedure improves blood circulation, relieves fatigue and muscle pain, and enhances muscle tone. The course lasts for a quarter of an hour and the duration of the course is 11-16 programs.
6. Reflexology.Special techniques act on acupoints. This method is effective when combined with other methods.
7. Exercise therapy.The disease is characterized by muscle underdevelopment and joint stiffness. A specially selected set of exercises (physical therapy) will help eliminate these symptoms. The first lessons should be conducted under the supervision of an experienced coach, followed by independent gymnastics. Regular training is very important.

treatment at home

Home methods are used only as an adjunct to the main conservative treatment:

• NutritionTo improve the condition, you need to eat correctly: 6-7 meals a day, reduce salt intake, introduce vegetables and fruits, and natural cartilage protectants (jelly, aspic) into the diet. Additionally, it is important to maintain an active lifestyle and avoid any type of overload.
• berry teaSystemic consumption of berry tea as well as wild strawberry leaf tea reduces thoracic osteochondrosis. Place a tablespoon of the plant in a glass, add hot water and brew. It is recommended to drink at least two glasses of this drink per day (after meals).
• potatoes and honeyGrated potatoes mixed with liquid honey can relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Apply the composition to the painful area for 30 minutes.

Control your weight, build up your body's defenses, and include plenty of plant-based foods in your diet. If the recommendations presented are followed, the effects of treatment will appear faster and the risk of complications and remission will be reduced.