Osteochondrosis is a disease with a chronic course, accompanied by progressive degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs. Most often, such a pathological process affects the cervical or lumbar spine. Gradually, this leads to the formation of an intervertebral hernia, followed by compression of the spinal cord, passing vessels, and so on. In this article we will talk about the clinical signs and treatment of osteochondrosis of the intervertebral discs in the lumbar spine.
How is osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine manifested?
The main clinical sign of this pathological process is back pain.
The intensity and nature of the pain syndrome in each case can vary. Some patients report acute pain, which is aggravated by the slightest movement, forcing them to take a forced position.
But most often (more than 70% of patients) there is a dull pain syndrome. The pain is of moderate intensity and is constant. Although the patient does not have to adopt a forced posture, he limits his physical activity. When the lumbar spine is affected, this is expressed in the avoidance of sharp bends, sitting down and getting up slowly.
In addition to symptoms of the spine itself, extravertebral signs can also be observed. In the event that compression of the spinal roots occurs, the person will indicate pain along the course of the peripheral nerves. A frequent manifestation of pathological changes in the region of the lumbar spine is lumboischialgia, which manifests itself as a sharp attack of pain, localized in the lumbar region and thighs, occurring during physical exertion.
treatment principles
Osteochondrosis is a disease that requires complex treatment. First of all, during the period of exacerbation, it is recommended to limit motor activity in the affected area. We mean bed rest here.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics are prescribed to relieve pain. You can relieve muscle spasms with the help of muscle relaxants. In some cases, the treatment plan is supplemented with anticonvulsants. If the spinal roots are compressed, local administration of glucocorticosteroids is possible.
In addition to drug therapy, patients with such a diagnosis are prescribed physiotherapy, therapeutic exercises and massage.
In the period of rehabilitation treatment, balneotherapy is recommended. In 2017, scientists of a federal university published a work, the results of which show the effectiveness of rehabilitation treatment of patients with spinal osteochondrosis using combined balneotherapy, which includes dry-air thermal and aerosol antler baths.
With severe compression of the spinal cord, the question of surgical intervention is decided.