Why does thoracic osteochondrosis occur and how to treat it?

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

Features 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 pinched nerves.

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

At an early stage of the disease, examination and treatment can be prescribed by a 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 of the symptoms of thoracic osteochondrosis. In case of complications, you cannot do without the help of a surgeon.

Causes

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

The development of the disease is provoked by several reasons:

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

Other factors in the development of osteochondrosis of the thoracic region include chronic diseases and hereditary factors. To avoid pathologies and possible complications, you need to get rid of the cause. Experts say that this problem, in most cases, is the result of an unhealthy lifestyle.

Degrees and symptoms

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

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

Considering the level of deformation of intervertebral discs, the following degrees of development are distinguished:

• First degree

  In the first phase, the elasticity (firmness) of the discs and their height decrease. Possible manifestation of protrusion (bulging) of the fibrous ring (hard shell of the semi-liquid core). The cartilaginous tissue of the vertebra becomes denser. Pain in the form of "lumbago" is likely during sudden movements or after being in the same position for a long time.

  Dorsago- a characteristic symptom at this stage. It expresses itself in sharp and sudden pain in the chest. It often appears when a person stands up (difficulty breathing).

  back pain- mild, non-sharp pain. It appears gradually and usually lasts 2 to 3 weeks. It may worsen with sudden bends or after physical exertion. Back pain is accompanied by muscle tension and limited movement. The pain subsides after a short walk.

  Also at this stage, neurological symptoms are identified:

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

• High school

  There is a further decrease in the height and elasticity of the intervertebral discs. The thoracic spine becomes unstable, cracks appear in the fibrous ring.

  Painful sensations:

  1. in the chest after overwork or during physical exertion;
  2. in the upper back;
  3. when raising your arms;
  4. when breathing (inhaling and exhaling).

  Phantom pain in the heart region and intestinal dysfunction are also possible.

• Third degree

  Intervertebral hernia formation continues. Pain is felt in the abdomen and back, intercostal neuralgia (may intensify with inhalation, sudden movements and coughing).

  One of the symptoms of osteochondrosis is coughing. The general mobility of the spine decreases, the diaphragm becomes compressed and there is shortness of breath. A severe dry cough is especially dangerous because the vertebral 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 functioning as shock absorbers. The spine loses mobility. Possible compression of blood vessels and nerves. Bone tissue is susceptible to destruction.

Diagnosis

Osteochondrosis of the thoracic region is difficult to diagnose, as it presents "camouflaged" symptoms (similar) to other diseases.

To make an accurate diagnosis, you need to carry out a series of studies:

• Ultrasound;
• X-ray;
• magnetic resonance imaging;
• blood analysis.

Traditional treatment

To eliminate pain and inflammation in the chest, drug treatment is used. To relieve pain during an exacerbation, injections are administered into a vein or intramuscularly. Treatment of osteochondrosis occurs with the help of medicines containing an enzyme of plant origin - papain. This substance helps to improve the structure of cartilaginous tissue.

1. Chondroprotectors. This is a group of medications used to restore articular cartilage. The basis of most products are active substances - glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate.
2. Antispasmodics and muscle relaxants.Drugs that weaken muscle tone. By acting on the receptors in this way, they relieve unhealthy muscle tension, resulting in pain and spasms.
3. Painkillers.Reduces the symptoms of the disease - inflammation and pain. The principle of action of these 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 with this disease need to undergo a restorative massage at least 2 times a year. During an exacerbation 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 act on acupuncture points. In combination with other methods, the method is effective.
7. Exercise therapy.The disease is characterized by an underdeveloped muscular corset and joint stiffness. A set of specially selected exercises (physiotherapy) will help eliminate these manifestations. The first classes should be carried out under the supervision of an experienced instructor, then gymnastics is carried out independently. Regular training is of great importance.

Home treatment

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

• Nutrition

  To improve the condition, you need to eat well: 6-7 meals a day, reducing salt intake, introducing vegetables and fruits, natural chondroprotectors (jams, jellies) into the diet. Furthermore, it is important to lead an active lifestyle, avoiding any type of overload.

• Red fruit tea

  Thoracic osteochondrosis can be reduced by systematically drinking berry tea, as well as wild strawberry leaf tea. Place a tablespoon of the plant in a glass, add hot water and let it ferment. 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 can relieve pain and inflammation. The composition is applied to the painful part for 30 minutes.

Control your weight, increase your body's defenses and include lots of plant foods in your diet. If the presented recommendations are followed, the therapeutic effect occurs faster, the risk of complications and remissions decreases.