As you know, one of the most common and dangerous pathologies that can interfere with the work of internal organs and worsen motor activity is osteochondrosis of the thoracic region. If a person is diagnosed with this disease, and he does not take timely action, this is fraught with the occurrence of severe pain manifestations, damage to the cardiovascular system, deterioration of the gastrointestinal tract, development of inflammatory processes in the respiratory system, lack of reproductive function and other serious complications.
In this article, we will provide detailed information on chest osteochondrosis and discuss important points related to the development of this disease. You will also learn about risk factors, effective treatment measures and possible negative consequences. We hope the proposed material is useful to you.
What is osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine
According to statistics, osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine can be observed in different people, regardless of gender and age. If the disease appears in children, their musculoskeletal system experiences premature aging.
What is this disease, which we often hear from others? This is one of the dangerous pathologies, which is accompanied by degenerative-dystrophic changes in the bone and cartilage areas. Lack of timely treatment is fraught with destructive processes that affect the joints, intervertebral discs and ligaments.
Often, against the background of thoracic osteochondrosis, the following pathological processes can occur: disorders of reproductive function; pathological replacement of lung tissue with connective tissue; oncological neoplasms; inflammatory lesions of the prostate gland; atherosclerosis, etc.
It should be noted that in the early stages of the disease, pathological changes mainly concern the bones, but gradually the disease spreads to muscle tissue, connective tissue and cartilage.
The stage of development of osteochondrosis of the thoracic region
Currently, 4 stages of the pathological process are known:
- First. It is characterized by loss of moisture and the appearance of cracks in the area of the intervertebral disc. In this case, thoracic osteochondrosis has mild symptoms that disappear during the rest period.
- Second. It is also accompanied by the formation of cracks and a decrease in the size of the disc. In this case, the free part of the vertebra is filled with the nucleus pulposus, but the probability of its protrusion is minimal in this case. However, the patient felt significant tension in the muscle area. A strong pain syndrome makes itself felt, which disappears shortly after rest.
- Third. The crack reaches the most distal part of the vertebra, and the nucleus pulposus protrudes. This is accompanied by the appearance of a herniated disc. The patient noted the presence of persistent pain.
- Fourth. It is accompanied by fibrosis. In this case, the connective tissue formed binds nearby vertebrae. Furthermore, there is excessive growth of bone tissue and the active appearance of pathological growth on it.
Causes of thoracic spinal osteochondrosis
There are several known risk factors that can provoke the development of this disease:
- Genetic predisposition;
- Hypodynamia;
- Scoliosis;
- Lifting heavy objects on a regular basis;
- Injuries to the thoracic region;
- Wear high -heeled shoes during pregnancy;
- Alcohol and tobacco abuse;
- Deterioration of blood flow in the spinal cord area;
- Significant physical activity;
- Exposure to thermal factors;
- Bone tissue dystrophy;
- The presence of a herniated disc;
- Obesity;
- Disorders of metabolic processes;
- Destruction of cartilage.
Symptoms of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine in men and women
It is important to note that the diseases described above are also characterized by changes in the composition of cartilage tissue. This pathological process is accompanied by the following manifestations:
- Feeling of squeezing in the chest area, which is accompanied by a decline in the activity of the respiratory system;
- Frequent limb numbness;
- The appearance of visible discomfort when turning the body;
- Loss of sensitivity in the limbs;
- Brittle nails;
- The presence of teeth in the hand area;
- Damage to the gastrointestinal tract;
- Reproductive dysfunction;
- Painful manifestations in the head area, which are common;
- Vomiting, nausea, and heartburn;
- Defeat of the intercostal nerve, accompanied by acute pain syndrome (neuralgia);
- Painful pain in the abdominal area;
- Significant discomfort in the left side of the chest;
- Pain syndrome in the right side of the chest;
- Tachycardia;
- Increased sweating.
Characteristics of the subacute phase
This made her feel after a deteriorating period. Manifestations of pain and damage to the respiratory system remain present, but less intense. The patient stops looking for a position to relieve discomfort. The duration of the subacute phase is up to 12-14 days. With strict adherence to expert advice, forgiveness is possible, with the hallmark of a clear sign. Failure to follow the recommendations can cause the disease to recur.
Remission of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine
This stage is characterized by a temporary improvement in the patient's condition. In this case, the discomfort can return - in the event of exposure to thermal irritants or changes in climatic conditions. Acute pain syndrome makes itself feel exclusive with thoracic osteochondrosis of 2-4 degrees - due to a sharp change in body position. Excessive physical exercise, stressful situations, chronic illness in the acute stage and a sedentary lifestyle can also cause relapses.
Methods for diagnosing osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine
For a clear diagnosis, the specialist must take into account the patient's complaints. The following symptoms and sensations in women make it possible to detect thoracic osteochondrosis: when you press a certain point in the chest area, a strong pain syndrome appears.
To identify signs of impaired sensitivity, special functional tests are performed. The most informative diagnostic option of the instrumental method is X-ray. However, MRI and CT are often performed to examine the spine thoroughly. If you suspect a disease of the cardiovascular system, the patient is recommended to undergo an ECG procedure.
First aid for acute thoracic osteochondrosis of the spine
The manifestation of pain in the period of relapse of the disease is characterized by a penetrating acute character, which indicates the provision of emergency treatment to the patient. It must be placed on a flat surface, covered with a warm blanket. If restlessness, shortness of breath or tachycardia appear during a relapse, a specialist should be called immediately. To relieve pain in the intercostal region, it is recommended to use the help of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Treatment of spinal thoracic osteochondrosis
To understand the best way to treat osteochondrosis of the thoracic region, one must remember the basics of a comprehensive technique. Within that framework, several therapeutic measures are implemented simultaneously, which makes it possible to overcome almost all pathological signs. With early disease, conservative therapy is used. With more advanced stages of pathological processes and the presence of herniated discs, to eliminate the compression syndrome, surgical intervention may be required.
Physiotherapy treatment
To understand how to treat osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine with physiotherapeutic methods, you must remember their mechanisms. So the most effective in identifying the above pathologies are:
- Exposure to the body with a constant electric current with simultaneous use of the drug;
- Methods related to the use of static magnetic fields;
- Phonophoresis;
- Ultrasound therapy;
- Hydrotherapy and spinal submarine traction.
SWT for chest osteochondrosis
Shock wave therapy is considered to be one of the most effective methods to restore the affected part of the spine. This physiotherapeutic method is based on the effect of acoustic impulses on the zone affected by the destructive-degenerative process.
In this case, special medical equipment is used. By converting electrical impulses into shock waves, it can quickly overcome salt deposits, reduce osteophyte size and reduce pain intensity.
As a rule, this procedure is effective in the presence of cervical, thoracic and lumbar osteochondrosis. Its main purpose is to restore the normal condition of the joints, bones and cartilage, as well as increase the elasticity of the affected spine. In addition, due to the effect of shock waves, it is possible to activate the expansion of new blood vessels and increase blood supply to the muscles.
Acupuncture
This technique involves the introduction of a small -diameter needle into a biologically active point. To activate the positive effect, they are rotated around an axis or undergo heating. With the help of acupuncture, it is possible to stop the pain syndrome quickly, eliminate the manifestations of inflammation and congestion, overcome swelling, relieve cramps, restore normal blood flow and improve mobility.
Pharmacopuncture
Methods of drug administration through reflexogenic points. In this case, the drug is injected into the lesion.
Considering the intended purpose, the following drugs are used:
- Means to reduce skeletal muscle tone and restore vertebral mobility;
- Drugs that have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects;
- Drugs that reduce muscle tone and dilate blood vessels;
- Preparations that speed up the recovery and metabolic processes;
- Vitamin complexes that contribute to the normalization of cell nutrition and improve the function of the immune system;
- Homeopathic remedies to normalize the immune and musculoskeletal systems.
Massage for osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine
It should be noted that massage in this part can be done even in the acute period. Through it, it is possible to restore blood flow, improve the condition of the muscle and normalize its function, as well as minimize the load on the vessels that supply the brain.
Use of drugs
If we talk about how to treat thoracic osteochondrosis with drugs, then, first of all, one should take into account the stage of the disease, the nature of its appearance and the intensity of the pain syndrome. Often, the following medications are used:
- Non -steroidal group funds. These are drugs with anti-inflammatory, analgesic effect, which are recommended for use in the course, which eventually turn into special ointments;
- Anesthetic drugs. They have an analgesic effect. Used as an intravenous drip;
- Diuretics. Allows you to overcome swelling, eliminate pathological signs, have a beneficial effect on the condition of the myocardium;
- Medications that reduce skeletal muscle tone, restore vertebral mobility and relieve pain.
In some cases, patients are recommended to take hormone medications, anticonvulsant medications, vitamin complexes, medications to restore the condition of blood vessels and sedatives.
Injections for osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine
Often, patients are interested in what to do with chest osteochondrosis, if it is accompanied by manifestations of acute pain. To give a faster effect on the nerve endings, they require injections into the spine. In this case, anesthetics and glucocorticosteroids are used. After normalizing the patient's condition, they switched to the use of gels and ointments.
Gymnastics for the thoracic spine with osteochondrosis
Before doing exercises for the thoracic spine with osteochondrosis, it is recommended to do warm -ups that provide the necessary muscle warm -up and increase the effectiveness of future exercises. You can also take a shower and give a light massage on the spine in the thoracic area.
Warm -up is especially important for patients who are doing gymnastics with chest osteochondrosis at home for the first time. As part of the initial warm -up of the muscles, the following movements can be performed: rotation and rotation of the pelvis and neck, rhythmic movements of the limbs, performed in different directions (swings). Keep in mind that gymnastics for thoracic osteochondrosis is performed without haste and smoothly. If exercise is associated with acute pain syndrome, it is better to reject it.
Currently, gymnastics for the thoracic spine, recommended for osteochondrosis, involves the implementation of 6 basic exercises:
- The patient is placed in a "lying" position on the floor, facing down. At the same time, he placed his hands behind his head, spreading his elbows wide. Next, gradually lift the shoulders upwards simultaneously with the body, which is accompanied by alternating elbow movements in the same direction. The number of repetitions was six times in 6 times for 1 exercise;
- The patient is placed on the floor, facing down. Then he connected his hands to the lock behind her back and tried to lift it up, bending his body. All movements are very smooth;
- The man took a standing position and placed his hands behind his shoulders. In the future, he should lift by shrugging (alternately);
- The patient lies on the floor, on a flat surface, leaning on his stomach. He stretched his upper limbs in front of him, slightly raising his body;
- The patient is placed on a chair and lowers his hands to the waist area. Next, the movement is done with the shoulders, by lifting alternately and slowly returning to the starting position. Number of repetitions - 5 times in one lesson;
- The man sat on a chair, trying to stretch out a gymnastic stick. Returning to the starting position is done while exhaling, while tilting the body forward. You can also do side bends while holding the same gymnastic device in your hand.
Diet for chest osteochondrosis
According to experts, it is better for people suffering from this disease to exclude fatty foods, smoked products, marinades and preservatives from the diet. You should also reduce the amount of salt, as it can cause severe swelling. In addition, the amount of fluid consumed should not be less than 2-2, 5 liters per day.
Surgical intervention
Depending on the clinical manifestations of thoracic osteochondrosis, the specialist selects the appropriate treatment. In further cases, surgical intervention is performed, in the framework of which:
- Excision of the intervertebral disc;
- Removal of a herniated disc;
- Surgical intervention for spinal stenosis;
- Disk replacement.
Traditional methods for treating thoracic spinal osteochondrosis
As a rule, traditional medical methods are considered relevant after the completion of the main therapy. In this case, herbal infusions and decoctions, compresses, various ointments and gels can be used. Basically, the funds are used to relieve painful low -intensity manifestations, which make themselves feel after doing physical exercise. The following recipes are most often used:
- Peel, grind and squeeze celery root juice. The resulting raw material is mixed with celery. The main purpose of this tool is to combat salt storage in the spine;
- Dried sunflower roots are crushed and hot water is added to the mixture. Cook over low heat for about 15 minutes, then insist and strain. Take 3 times throughout the day.
Medication during pregnancy
Keep in mind that most anesthetics are not allowed during pregnancy. Neurologists recommend limiting the intake of gels, ointments and patches. Often, if a pregnant woman is diagnosed with osteochondrosis of the thoracic region, treatment is reduced to exercise and physiotherapy massage, the positive effects can be provenresults of people. . .
Possible complications
If a patient is diagnosed with thoracic osteochondrosis, but he does not take timely action, this can lead to damage to the gastrointestinal tract, inflammation of the respiratory system, violation of heart rhythm, as well as deterioration of reproductive function.
If the compression of the nerve endings is significant, they can make themselves feel:
- Pathological processes in the renal area;
- Chronic pain syndrome;
- Deterioration of cardiac activity;
- Development of herniated discs;
- Feeling of cramps in the spine.
Precautions
To eliminate the possibility of negative consequences against the background of osteochondrosis of the chest, any experienced doctor will advise you to adhere to the following rules of prevention:
- Eliminates exposure to thermal irritants;
- Reject the use of tobacco products and consumption of alcoholic beverages;
- Do gymnastic exercises;
- Trace your posture;
- Reject smoked meats and spicy foods;
- Sleep in a comfortable bed;
- Eliminates increased physical activity;
- 1 time in 6 months to take medication that allows you to restore cartilage tissue;
- See a specialist regularly to check the condition of the spine.
With timely detection of pathology and implementation of effective therapeutic measures, the prognosis is positive.