Why does thoracic osteochondrosis develop and how is it treated?

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 the appearance of protrusions and degenerative changes in adjacent tissues. Osteochondrosis is difficult to detect because it "masks" symptoms such as gastritis, heart disease or stomach ulcers.

Characteristics of the disease

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

According to ICD-10, this disease belongs to the group "dorsopathy" under the 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 highly qualified specialist (neurologist). Often a professional masseur 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 older people. However, in recent years, osteochondrosis of the thoracic region has more often affected 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 spinal curvature and acquired posture disorders;
• wrong diet;
• obesity;
• age-related changes;
• Metabolic problems.

Other factors in the development of osteochondrosis in the chest area include chronic diseases and hereditary factors. To avoid pathologies and possible complications, you must eliminate the cause. Experts say that in most cases this problem is due to 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 area of the breast and then quickly spread throughout the entire breast. Because of this, a person has difficulty breathing, he just has to sit or lie in a certain position.

The pain increases when turning the head, moving the neck, lifting the arms and bending over. 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 elasticity (strength) of the intervertebral discs and their height decrease. Possible manifestation of a protrusion (bulging) of the fibrous ring (hard shell for the semi-liquid core). The cartilage tissue of the vertebra becomes denser. Pain in the form of "lumbago" is likely to occur with sudden movements or after remaining in one position for a long time.

  Dorsago- a characteristic symptom at this stage. Manifests itself as acute, sudden chest pain. It often occurs when a person stands up (difficulty breathing).

  Dorsalgia- mild, blurred pain. Occurs gradually and usually lasts 2 to 3 weeks. It can get worse with sudden bending or after physical exertion. Dorsalgia is associated with muscle tension and restricted movement. The pain subsides after a short walk.

  Also at this stage, neurological symptoms are noted:

  1. Sensation of "tingling" on the surface of the legs, stomach and chest;
  2. numbness or tingling of 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 and tears develop in the fibrous ring.

  Painful sensations:

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

  Phantom pain in the heart area and intestinal disorders are also possible.

• Third degree

  The formation of intervertebral hernias continues. Pain in the abdomen and back, intercostal neuralgia (may worsen with inhalation, sudden movements and coughing).

  One of the symptoms of osteochondrosis is cough. The general mobility of the spine decreases, the diaphragm becomes pinched and there is a lack of air. A severe dry cough is particularly dangerous because the vertebral artery is in the neck. Compression poses a risk of ischemia and stroke.

• Fourth degree

  In the fourth stage, the intervertebral discs lose their function as shock absorbers. The spine loses mobility. Possible pinching of blood vessels and nerves. Bone tissue is susceptible to destruction.

diagnosis

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

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

• Ultrasonic;
• Roentgen;
• MRI;
• Blood analysis.

Traditional treatment

To eliminate pain and inflammation in the chest, drug treatment is used. To relieve pain during an exacerbation, injections are given into a vein or intramuscularly. Treatment of osteochondrosis is carried out with the help of drugs containing an enzyme of plant origin - papain. This substance contributes to improving the structure of cartilage tissue.

1. Chondroprotectors. This is a group of medicines used to restore joint cartilage. The basis of most products are the active ingredients glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate.
2. Antispasmodics and muscle relaxants.Drugs that weaken muscle tone. By acting on the receptors in this way, they release unhealthy muscle tension that leads to pain and cramps.
3. Painkiller.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 need to undergo restorative massage at least twice a year. If the disease worsens, the procedure is usually not carried out. This procedure improves blood circulation, relieves fatigue and muscle pain, and strengthens muscle tone. The session lasts a quarter of an hour, the course duration is 11-16 procedures.
6. Reflexology.Special techniques act on acupuncture points. In combination with other methods, the method is effective.
7. Movement therapy.The disease is characterized by an underdeveloped muscular corset and joint stiffness. A specially selected set of exercises (physiotherapy) helps to eliminate these phenomena. The first courses should be carried out under the supervision of an experienced trainer, 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 properly: 6-7 meals a day, reduce salt intake, include vegetables and fruits, as well as natural chondroprotectors (jelly, jellied meat) in the diet. In addition, it is important to lead an active lifestyle and avoid any kind of overwork.

• Berry tea

  Thoracic osteochondrosis can be reduced by systematically drinking berry tea, as well as tea made from wild strawberry leaves. Place a tablespoon of the plant in a glass, add hot water and let it steep. It is recommended to drink at least two glasses of this drink daily (after meals).

• potatoes and honey

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

Control your weight, strengthen your immune system 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 decreases.