Osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is much less common than problems in other departments. However, the rarity of this disease should not underestimate its dangers. The fact is that the chest region is less mobile than, for example, the neck region. Its structure is also special: there are much more vertebrae than in other departments, and the intervertebral discs themselves are thinner and smaller. Why does osteochondrosis of the chest region occur and how is it treated?
What is osteochondrosis?
The term osteochondrosis refers to the condition of the articular cartilage as well as the surrounding bone tissue. This disease of the spine causes the intervertebral discs to become thinner and lose their elasticity. If left untreated, the body of the disc is destroyed from time to time and the joints and ligaments lose strength. Although osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine does not manifest itself immediately, the patient still needs medical help.
causes of the disease
The causes of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine are the same as in diseases of other departments. First of all it is:
- wrong way of life;
- overweight;
- sedentary lifestyle;
- Bad habits;
- diabetes mellitus;
- hormonal disorders;
- rachiocampsis;
- the presence of osteochondrosis in another department.
When several factors come together, the risk of developing osteochondrosis increases significantly. There is also a particular risk of falling ill among people whose work involves staying in the same position for a long time. Therefore, it cannot be said that only older people or only overweight people suffer from osteochondrosis. In recent years there has even been a significant rejuvenation of this disease.
symptoms of the disease
In order to be able to seek medical help in time, it is important to be able to recognize the first signs of the disease:
- persistent back pain;
- belt pain in the chest area when inhaling;
- heart pain that doesn't stop after taking heart medication;
- numbness in the chest area;
- pain when trying to raise a hand;
- itching, burning or coldness in the lower extremities;
- disorders in the digestive system;
- loss of feeling in the limbs;
- Violation of potency in men.
Obviously, there is a danger of confusing osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine with other diseases. For example, you might think that you have problems with your heart, stomach, or nervous system. Therefore, in order to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe further treatment of the spine, it is important to seek medical help.
Treatment methods for the disease
With osteochondrosis, doctors use several methods of treatment. For example, the first step in admitting a patient to a hospital is usually drug therapy. If necessary, he will be prescribed pain medication. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can also be used to reduce swelling or inflammation.
When providing first aid, chondroprotectors can be used, the effect of which is not felt immediately, but is 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 prescribing medication, the doctor may recommend exercises for thoracic osteochondrosis. As practice shows, this method has its own positive dynamics in the treatment of such diseases. Exercises for osteochondrosis of the chest region will help strengthen the muscles of the spine and reduce pain.
Just as exercise is effective in thoracic osteochondrosis, massage plays an important role in treatment. This method allows you to relax the tight muscles of the spine, which means that pinched nerve endings are released. Massage should be performed by a specialist, and the course of treatment with this method should last at least two weeks.
Also in the treatment of osteochondrosis, an excellent result can be achieved if water procedures are used. Swimming, hydromassage (underwater massage), baths have a positive effect on the health of the spine.
Acupuncture has become increasingly popular in recent years. This technique allows you to release tension in the nerve endings and quickly relieve pain.
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 give up all bad habits and take care of the health of your spine. Complete healing of osteochondrosis is not possible even in the hospital. 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:
- periodically change the position of the spine during the day;
- Try lying down for 30-40 minutes several times a day.
- engage more in outdoor activities, such asB. swimming;
- Apply a series of exercises to treat the back.
If it becomes apparent that the condition of the spine is deteriorating, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Specialists conduct all the necessary complex laboratory tests, e. g. B. They do an X-ray or MRI, take blood for biochemical analysis and make the correct diagnosis. In this case, you can be sure that the treatment has been chosen correctly and will bring quick relief.