Osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is a common disease that manifests itself with various symptoms and affects professional activity.The clinical symptoms of the disease are associated with dystrophic changes in the thoracic vertebrae, intervertebral discs and ligaments.The disease is often combined with cervical chondrosis and, without treatment, reduces the quality of life.
Causes of thoracic osteochondrosis
The causes are related to metabolic disorders, vascular and endocrine diseases and congenital pathologies.Disorders negatively affect the nutrition of the intervertebral discs, disrupting their structure and normal functioning.The resulting abnormality in the discs leads to the growth of the cartilage tissue on the vertebrae, changes in the ligaments and joints.The normal function of the spinal column ceases during bending, stretching and other movements, which leads to compression of the spinal cord, blood vessels and nerve endings.
The following conditions can provoke the development of osteochondrosis:
- Incorrect posture, lateral curvature of the spine;
- Back injuries;
- Physical inactivity;
- Heredity;
- Bad habits;
- Nervous, physical exertion, stress;
- Back and spine overload when wearing high heels, during pregnancy, flat feet;
- Physically hard work.
Osteochondrosis of the cervical thoracic spine occurs due to hypothermia, long-term discomfort and infectious diseases.The disease is often registered in areas with poor ecology and unfavorable climatic conditions.
The intervertebral discs of the thoracic vertebrae are equally adversely affected by a sedentary lifestyle and physical activity, which increases the likelihood of injuries.The discs' ability to absorb shock is lost;they do not protect the vertebrae from contact with each other.The result is the growth of cartilage tissue, the complete degeneration of the discs.
Aggravation of the disease is observed in case of non-compliance with the work and rest regime, colds and nervous overload.Preventive treatment twice a year reduces the likelihood of exacerbations.
Common osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is often disguised as other diseases.In order to make an accurate diagnosis, it is worth carrying out further tests.
Symptoms of thoracic osteochondrosis
Osteochondrosis of the thoracic vertebrae is disguised as other diseases - angina pectoris, gastritis, neuralgia, pancreatitis.As a result of disturbances in the functioning of the thoracic vertebrae, the nerve endings leading to these organs are pinched, which affects the occurrence of pain in them.If pain occurs in these organs, it is worth conducting a full examination;correct diagnosis helps to cure the disease.
Osteochondrosis manifests itself in the following symptoms:
- Severe pain in the back - between the shoulder blades, in the thoracic spine;
- Exhalation and inhalation are accompanied by pain;
- Heartache: pressure, pain, tightness;
- Numbness of body parts;
- Pain when bending or doing physical work.
The difference between the pain of osteochondrosis and angina is that in heart disease the pain is diffuse, while in osteochondrosis it is point-like.Images of the thoracic spine, ultrasound of internal organs, and EKG help distinguish diseases during diagnosis.The signs of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine are similar to diseases of the pancreas, liver and lungs.If pain occurs in them, you should consult a neurologist, who will determine the presence or absence of osteochondrosis.
Treatment of osteochondrosis
Osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine requires complex drug therapy, lifestyle changes and special exercises.In the acute phase of the disease, bed rest is prescribed for several days, with limited movement.Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used as medicine.The drugs have a moderate pain-relieving effect.To reduce pain, injectable and tablet painkillers are used, sometimes novocaine blockades are indicated.
Medicinal anti-inflammatory ointments can relieve muscle tension, numbness and pain.During the recovery period, a properly performed massage therapy is important, which relaxes the muscles and improves blood supply to the spinal cord, spine and internal organs.
The exercise is recommended during the interictal period - it restores the mobility of the vertebrae and helps to improve the functioning of the ligaments.The neurologist recommends a course consisting of individual sessions, focusing on the symptoms of the disease, the stage of vertebral destruction, age and the presence of other diseases.During the exercise, it is important not to cause further damage to the spine.
Exercises are performed daily under the control of well-being.After eliminating the signs of the disease, it is important to remember that it can return.Therefore, a balanced diet, the absence of bad habits and moderate physical activity should become the norm of life.