Why does thoracic osteochondrosis occur and how is it treated?

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 appearance of protrusion and degenerative changes in the adjacent tissues. Osteochondrosis is difficult to recognize due to "masked" symptoms such as gastritis, heart disease or stomach ulcer.

Characteristics of the disease

Osteochondrosis of the thoracic region is a complex of disorders in 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.

In the early stages 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 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 caused by various reasons:

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

Other factors in the development of osteochondrosis of the thoracic region include chronic diseases and hereditary factors. To avoid pathology and possible complications, you need to get rid of the cause. Experts say that this problem is in most cases 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 spot in the chest and then quickly spread throughout the chest. Because of this, the person breathes hard, has to sit or lie only 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.

Considering the degree of deformation of the intervertebral discs, the following stages of development are distinguished:

• First degree

  In the first stage, the elasticity (firmness) of the discs and their height decreases. A possible manifestation of the protrusion (bulging) of the fibrous ring (a hard shell for a semi-fluid core). The vertebral cartilage tissue becomes denser. Pain in the form of "lumbago" is likely during sudden movements or after staying in one position for a long time.

  Dorsago- a characteristic symptom in this phase. It manifests itself in acute, sudden chest pain. It often occurs when a person stands up (difficulty breathing).

  Dorsalgia- mild, mild pain. It appears gradually and usually lasts from 2 to 3 weeks. It can get worse with sudden bends or after physical exertion. Dorsalgia is accompanied by muscle tension and limited movement. The pain disappears after a short walk.

  Neurological symptoms are also identified in this phase:

  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. dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract.

• Second degree

  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 excessive work or during physical exertion;
  2. in the upper part of the back;
  3. when raising hands;
  4. during breathing (inhale and exhale).

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

• Third degree

  Intervertebral hernia formation continues. There is pain in the abdomen and back, intercostal neuralgia (it can increase during inhalation, sudden movements and coughing).

  One of the symptoms of osteochondrosis is a cough. The overall mobility of the spine decreases, the diaphragm is squeezed and a lack of air is felt. A strong 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 pinching of blood vessels and nerves. Bone tissue is susceptible to destruction.

Diagnostics

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

In order to make an accurate diagnosis, it is necessary to conduct a number of studies:

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

Traditional treatment

Drug treatment is used to relieve chest pain and inflammation. To relieve pain during an exacerbation, injections are given intravenously or intramuscularly. Treatment of osteochondrosis takes place with the help of drugs containing an enzyme of plant origin - papain. This substance helps to improve the structure of cartilage tissue.

1. Chondroprotectors. 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.Medicines that weaken muscle tone. By acting on the receptors in this way, they release unhealthy muscle tension, resulting in pain and spasms.
3. Painkillers.It reduces the symptoms of the disease - inflammation and pain. The principle of action of such drugs is blocking 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 must undergo a course of restorative massage at least 2 times a year. During the 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 work 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 stiffness of the joints. A specially selected set of exercises (physical therapy) will help eliminate these manifestations. The first lessons should be performed under the supervision of an experienced instructor, and then gymnastics is performed independently. Regular training is very important.

Treatment at home

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

• Nutrition

  In order to improve the condition, it is necessary to eat properly: 6-7 meals a day, reduce the amount of salt, introduce vegetables and fruits, natural chondroprotectors (jellies, jelly meat) into the diet. In addition, it is important to lead an active lifestyle, avoiding any kind of overload.

• Berry tea

  Thoracic osteochondrosis can be reduced by systematically drinking berry tea, as well as wild strawberry leaf tea. Put a spoonful of the plant in a glass, add hot water and let it boil. It is recommended to drink at least two glasses of this drink a day (after meals).

• Potatoes and honey

  Grated potatoes mixed with liquid honey can relieve pain and reduce inflammation. The composition is applied to the painful part for 30 minutes.

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