Why does thoracic osteochondrosis occur and how to treat it?

Osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is an inflammatory disease associated with the development of pathological processes in the intervertebral discs. Complications of the disease include the appearance of elongation and degenerative changes in adjacent tissues. Osteochondrosis is difficult to identify due to "mask" symptoms such as gastritis, heart disease or gastric 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 nerve compression.

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

In 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 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.

Causes

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

The development of the disease is provoked by various reasons:

• excessive physical activity;
• work that involves lifting heavy loads;
• prolonged forced uncomfortable positions;
• congenital curvature of the spine and acquired postural disorders;
• wrong 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 eliminate the cause. Experts say that this problem in most cases is the result of an unhealthy lifestyle.

Degrees and symptoms

Osteochondrosis of the chest region is characterized by special symptoms. The patient suffers from muscle spasms and intercostal neuralgia. The pain may be localized to one area of the chest and then quickly spread to the entire chest. Because of this, a person has difficulty breathing, he 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 back is possible.

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

• First step

  In the first stage, the elasticity (stiffness) of the discs and their height decreases. Possible manifestation of elongation (swelling) of the annulus fibrosus (hard shell for the semi-liquid core). The cartilage tissue of the vertebra 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 at this stage. It is expressed by acute, sudden pain in the chest. It often appears when a person stands up (difficulty in breathing).

  Dorsalgia- light, dull pains. It appears gradually and usually lasts from 2 to 3 weeks. It can get worse with sudden bending or after physical exertion. Dorsalgia is associated with 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. dysfunctions 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 exercise;
  2. in the upper part of the back;
  3. when you raise your arms up;
  4. during breathing (inhalation and exhalation).

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

• The third degree

  Intervertebral hernia formation continues. Pain is felt in the abdomen and back, neuralgia between the ribs (can be intensified by inhalation, sudden movements and coughing).

  One of the symptoms of osteochondrosis is a cough. The general mobility of the spine decreases, the diaphragm is pressed 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.

• The 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.

Diagnosing

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

To make an accurate diagnosis, you need to conduct a number of studies:

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

Traditional treatment

To eliminate pain and inflammation in the chest, drug treatment is used. To relieve pain during an exacerbation, injections are given intravenously or intramuscularly. Treatment of osteochondrosis occurs 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 the active substances - glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate.
2. Antispasmodics and muscle relaxants.Drugs that weaken muscle tone. Acting in this way on the receptors, they relieve the 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 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 should undergo a restorative massage course at least 2 times a year. During an exacerbation of the disease, the procedure is usually not performed. This procedure improves blood circulation, relieves muscle fatigue and 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 underdeveloped muscle mass and joint stiffness. A specially selected set of exercises (physical therapy) will help eliminate these manifestations. The first classes should be performed under the supervision of an experienced instructor, then gymnastics is performed independently. Regular training is of great importance.

Treatment at home

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

• Nutrition

  To improve the condition, you should eat properly: 6-7 meals a day, reducing the amount of salt intake, introducing vegetables and fruits, natural chondroprotectors (jelly, jelly meat) into the diet. In addition, it is important to lead an active lifestyle, avoiding any type of overload.

• Tea with red berries

  Osteochondrosis of the chest can be reduced by systematically drinking blackberry tea, as well as tea from wild strawberry leaves. Put 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 a day (after meals).

• Potatoes and honey

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

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