Osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is less common than problems in other departments. However, rarely this disease should not underestimate its dangers. The fact is that the thoracic area is less mobile than, for example, the cervical area. Also, its structure is special: there are more vertebrae than in other departments, and the disc itself is thinner and smaller. Why does osteochondrosis of the thoracic region occur and how to treat it?
What is osteochondrosis?
The term osteochondrosis refers to the condition of the articular cartilage, as well as the bone tissue around it. Due to this spinal disease, the intervertebral disc becomes thinner and loses its elasticity. The disc body, if left untreated, is destroyed over time, and the joints and ligaments lose strength. Although osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is not immediately noticeable, patients still need medical help.
The cause of the disease
The cause of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is the same as in other departmental diseases. The first is:
- wrong way of life;
- overweight;
- sedentary lifestyle;
- bad habits;
- diabetes;
- hormonal disorders;
- rachiocampsis;
- the presence of osteochondrosis in any other department.
If several factors occur, then the risk of developing osteochondrosis increases significantly. A specific risk of falling ill is also present in those whose work is associated with remaining in the same position for long periods of time. Therefore, it cannot be said that only the elderly, or only overweight people, suffer from osteochondrosis. In recent years, there has also been a significant rejuvenation of the disease.
Symptoms of the disease
To get timely medical help, it is important to be able to recognize the early signs of the disease:
- persistent back pain;
- girdle pain in the chest area during inspiration;
- heart pain that does not stop after taking heart medication;
- numbness in the chest area;
- pain when trying to raise hands;
- itching, burning sensation or chills in the lower legs;
- disorders in the digestive system;
- loss of sensation in the limbs;
- potential violations in men.
Clearly, there is a risk of confusing thoracic spine osteochondrosis with other diseases. For example, you may think that you have a problem with your heart, stomach or nervous system. Therefore, to establish an accurate diagnosis, as well as to prescribe further treatment of the spine, it is important to seek medical help.
Methods of treatment for diseases
With osteochondrosis, doctors use several methods of treatment. For example, often the first step in a patient’s admission to a hospital is drug therapy. If necessary, he was given painkillers. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can also be used to relieve swelling or inflammation.
When first aid is provided, chondroprotectors can be used, the effects of which are not immediately visible, but are very effective with prolonged use. An important role is played by the use of vitamins and minerals necessary for the normal functioning of human cartilage tissue.
In addition to prescription medications, doctors may recommend exercises for thoracic osteochondrosis. As practice has shown, this method has its own positive dynamics in the treatment of the disease. Exercises for osteochondrosis of the thoracic region help strengthen the muscles of the spine, as well as relieve pain.
Just as exercise is effective for thoracic osteochondrosis, massage plays an important role in treatment. This method allows you to relax the tense spinal muscles, which means releasing the pinched nerve endings. Massage should be performed by a specialist, and the course of treatment with this method should be at least two weeks.
Also, great results in the treatment of osteochondrosis can be achieved if water procedures are used. Swimming, hydromassage (underwater massage), bathing have a beneficial effect on the health of the spine.
In recent years, acupuncture has become increasingly popular. This technique allows you to relieve tension on the nerve endings, as well as relieve pain quickly.
How can you help yourself at home?
It happens that the problem is obvious, and there are serious contraindications to medical treatment. How can you help yourself in this case?
First of all, it is important to abandon any bad habits and keep your spine healthy. It is not possible to completely cure osteochondrosis even in a hospital setting. It is important to keep it in good working condition for as long as possible.
To help yourself in the fight against this disease, it is important to follow a few simple rules:
- during the day, frequently change the position of the spine;
- several times a day try to lie down for 30-40 minutes;
- engaging in outdoor activities, such as swimming more;
- apply a set of exercises for back treatment.
If it becomes clear that the condition of the spine is getting worse, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Specialists will perform all the necessary complex of laboratory tests, for example, they will make an X-ray or MRI, take blood for biochemical analysis and set the correct diagnosis. In this case, you can be sure that the treatment is chosen correctly, and it will bring quick relief.