Osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is a common disease, which is manifested by various symptoms and affects professional activities.Clinical signs of the disease are associated with dystrophic changes in the thoracic vertebrae, intervertebral discs and ligaments.The disease is often associated with cervical chondrosis and, without treatment, reduces quality of life.
Causes of thoracic osteochondrosis
The causes are related to metabolic disorders, vascular and endocrine diseases and congenital pathologies.Disorders negatively affect the nutrition of intervertebral discs, disrupting their structure and normal functioning.The resulting disorder in the discs leads to the growth of cartilaginous tissue in the vertebrae, changes in ligaments and joints.The spine stops functioning normally during flexion, extension and other movements, which leads to compression of the spinal cord, blood vessels and nerve endings.
The following conditions can provoke the occurrence of osteochondrosis:
- Incorrect posture, lateral curvature of the spine;
- Back injuries;
- Physical inactivity;
- Heredity;
- Bad habits;
- Nervous, physical tension, stress;
- Overload on the back and spine when wearing high-heeled shoes, during pregnancy, flat feet;
- Physically hard work.
Osteochondrosis of the cervicothoracic spine occurs due to hypothermia, prolonged exposure to a forced uncomfortable position and infectious diseases.The disease is often recorded in areas with poor ecology and unfavorable climatic conditions.
The intervertebral discs of the thoracic vertebrae are equally negatively affected by a sedentary lifestyle and physical activity, which increases the likelihood of injury.The shock-absorbing capacity of the discs is lost;they do not protect the vertebrae from contact with each other.The result is the growth of cartilaginous tissue, complete degeneration of the discs.
An aggravation of the disease is observed in cases of non-compliance with the work and rest regime, colds and nervous overstrain.Preventative treatment administered twice a year reduces the likelihood of exacerbations.
Common osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is often disguised as other diseases.To make an accurate diagnosis, it is worth carrying out additional tests.
Symptoms of thoracic osteochondrosis
Osteochondrosis of the thoracic vertebrae is disguised as other diseases - angina pectoris, gastritis, neuralgia, pancreatitis.As a result of disturbances in the functioning of the thoracic vertebrae, the nerve endings going to these organs are compressed, which affects the occurrence of pain in them.If pain occurs in these organs, it is worth having a complete examination;A correct diagnosis will help cure the disease.
Osteochondrosis is manifested by symptoms:
- Severe back pain - between the shoulder blades, in the thoracic spine;
- Exhalation and inspiration are accompanied by pain;
- Heart pain: pressing, hurting, squeezing;
- Numbness of parts of the body;
- Pain when bending or performing physical work.
The difference between pain in osteochondrosis and angina is that pain in heart disease is diffuse, while in osteochondrosis it is punctual.Images of the thoracic spine, ultrasound of internal organs and ECG will help differentiate diseases during diagnosis.Signs of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine resemble diseases of the pancreas, liver and lungs.If pain occurs in them, you should consult a neurologist who will determine the presence or absence of osteochondrosis.
Treatment of osteochondrosis
Osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine requires complex drug therapy, lifestyle changes and special exercises.In the acute phase of the disease, bed rest is prescribed for several days with limitation of movement.Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used as medicines.The medicines have a moderate analgesic effect.To reduce pain, injectable and tablet analgesics are used, novocaine blockades are sometimes indicated.
It is possible to relieve muscle tension, numbness and pain by using medicated anti-inflammatory ointments.During the recovery period, a properly administered massage course is important, relaxing the muscles, improving the blood supply to the spinal cord, spine and internal organs.
Gymnastics is indicated in the interictal period - it restores mobility to the vertebrae, helps to improve the functioning of the ligaments.The neurologist will recommend a course of individual sessions, focusing on the symptoms of the disease, the stage of vertebral destruction, age and the presence of other diseases.It is important, when performing gymnastics, not to cause additional damage to the spine.
Exercises are performed daily under the control of well-being.After eliminating the signs of the disease, it is important to remember that it can return.Therefore, a balanced diet, the absence of bad habits and moderate physical activity should become the norm of life.