Why does thoracic osteochondrosis occur and how to treat it?

Osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is an inflammatory disease accompanied by the development of pathological processes in the intervertebral discs. Complications of the disease include protrusion and the occurrence of degenerative changes in adjacent tissues. Osteochondrosis is difficult to identify, as symptoms such as gastritis, heart disease or stomach ulcers are "masked".

Characteristics of the disease

Osteochondrosis of the thoracic region is a complex of disorders of the intervertebral discs. They shrink and gradually lose their properties. This leads to pinching of nerves.

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

In the early stages of the disease, the examination and treatment can be prescribed by the local doctor. If the disease is advanced, the patient is referred to a highly qualified specialist (neurologist). Often, a professional massage therapist relieves the patient from the symptoms of thoracic osteochondrosis. In case of complications, you cannot do without the help of a surgeon.

Cause

Most often, the pathology manifests itself in the elderly. But in recent years, osteochondrosis of the chest region affects young patients more often.

The development of the disease is triggered by various reasons:

• excessive physical activity;
• work involving lifting heavy loads;
• prolonged forced uncomfortable positions;
• congenital curvature of the spine and acquired posture disorders;
• improper diet;
• overweight;
• age-related changes;
• metabolic problems.

Other factors in the development of osteochondrosis of the chest region include chronic diseases and hereditary factors. To avoid pathology and possible complications, you need to get rid of the cause. According to experts, this problem is in most cases the result of an unhealthy lifestyle.

Stages and symptoms

Osteochondrosis of the chest region is characterized by special symptoms. The patient suffers from muscle spasms and intercostal neuralgia. The pain can be localized in one area of the chest and then quickly spread throughout the chest. Because of this, a person has difficulty breathing, he only has to sit or lie in a certain position.

The pain intensifies when turning the head, moving the neck, raising the arms, and bending. Any movement of the neck causes discomfort (especially at night). Painful contraction of the muscles of the shoulder girdle and lower back is possible.

Taking into account the degree of deformation of the intervertebral discs, the following degrees of development are distinguished:

• First degree

  In the first stage, the flexibility (firmness) and height of the discs decrease. A possible manifestation of the protrusion (bulging) of the fibrous ring (the hard shell of the semi-liquid core). The cartilage tissue of the vertebra becomes denser. "Lumbago" pain is likely to occur during sudden movements or after staying in one position for a long time.

  Dorsago- characteristic symptom in this stage. It manifests itself in acute, sudden chest pain. It often appears when a person stands up (shortness of breath).

  Dorsalgia- mild, not sharp pain. It appears gradually and usually lasts 2-3 weeks. This may worsen during sudden turns or after physical exertion. Dorsalgia is accompanied by muscle tension and limited movement. The pain subsides after a short walk.

  Neurological symptoms are also identified at this stage:

  1. a feeling of "pins and needles" on the surface of the legs, abdomen and chest;
  2. numbness or tingling in certain areas of the skin;
  3. disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.

• Second degree

  The height and elasticity of the intervertebral discs continue to decrease. The thoracic spine becomes unstable, cracks appear in the fibrous ring.

  Painful sensations:

  1. in the chest after overtime or during physical exertion;
  2. upper back;
  3. when you raise your arms;
  4. during breathing (inhalation and exhalation).

  Phantom pain in the area of the heart and bowel dysfunction are also possible.

• Third degree

  The development of intervertebral hernia continues. Pain in the abdomen and back, intercostal neuralgia (can be aggravated by inhalation, sudden movements and coughing).

  One of the symptoms of osteochondrosis is a cough. The general mobility of the spine decreases, the diaphragm muscle is compressed and a lack of air is felt. A severe dry cough is especially dangerous, since the vertebra of the artery is located in the neck. If it is compressed, there is a risk of ischemia and stroke.

• Fourth degree

  In the fourth stage, the intervertebral discs stop acting as shock absorbers. The spine loses its mobility. Possible pinching of blood vessels and nerves. Bone tissue is prone to destruction.

Diagnostics

Osteochondrosis of the chest region is difficult to diagnose, as it has "camouflage" (similar) symptoms as other diseases.

In order to make an accurate diagnosis, several tests must be performed:

• Ultrasound;
• X-ray;
• MRI;
• blood analysis.

Traditional treatment

Medicines are used to relieve chest pain and inflammation. To relieve pain during exacerbation, injections are given intravenously or intramuscularly. Osteochondrosis is treated using drugs containing plant-derived enzyme - papain. This substance helps to improve the structure of cartilage tissue.

1. Chondroprotectors. This is a group of drugs used to restore joint cartilage. Most products are based on the active ingredients - glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate.
2. Antispasmodics and muscle relaxants.Medicines that weaken muscle tone. By acting on receptors in this way, they relieve unhealthy muscle tension that results in pain and spasms.
3. Pain relievers.It reduces the symptoms of the disease - inflammation and pain. The principle of action of such drugs is to block the synthesis of certain enzymes.
4. Vitamin therapy.Most often, vitamins A, B, D, C, E are prescribed, which restore cartilage tissue, strengthen the immune system and have an anti-inflammatory effect.
5. Massage.Patients suffering from this disease should have a restorative massage at least 2 times a year. During the aggravation of the disease, the procedure is usually not performed. This procedure improves blood circulation, relieves fatigue and muscle pain, and strengthens muscle tone. The session lasts a quarter of an hour, the duration of the course is 11-16 procedures.
6. Reflexology.Special techniques work on the acupuncture points. In combination with other methods, the method is effective.
7. Exercise therapy.The disease is characterized by underdeveloped musculature and joint stiffness. A specially selected series of exercises (physiotherapy) helps eliminate these manifestations. The first lessons should be done under the supervision of an experienced instructor, and then gymnastics should be done independently. Regular exercise is very important.

Treatment at home

Home methods are used only as an additional means of the main conservative therapy:

• Nutrition

  In order to improve the condition, it is necessary to eat correctly: 6-7 meals a day, reducing salt intake, including vegetables and fruits, natural chondroprotectors (jelly, jellied meat) in the diet. In addition, it is important to lead an active lifestyle, avoiding overload.

• Berry tea

  Osteochondrosis of the chest can be reduced if you systematically drink berry tea, as well as tea from wild strawberry leaves. Place a tablespoon of the plant in a glass, add hot water and let it brew. It is recommended to drink at least two glasses of this drink per day (after meals).

• Potatoes and honey

  Grated potatoes mixed with liquid honey relieves pain and relieves inflammation. The preparation is applied to the painful part for 30 minutes.

Control your weight, increase your body's defenses and include a lot of plant foods in your diet. If the presented recommendations are followed, the therapeutic effect will appear faster, and the risk of complications and remissions will decrease.