Osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is much less common than problems in other departments. However, the rarity of this disease cannot underestimate its dangers. The fact is that the chest region is less mobile than, for example, the cervical region. In addition, its structure is peculiar: there are many more vertebrae than in other departments, and the discs themselves are thinner and smaller. Why does osteochondrosis of the chest 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 surrounding bone tissue. Due to this disease of the spine, the intervertebral discs become thinner and lose their elasticity. The body of the discs, if left untreated, is destroyed from time to time, and the joints and ligaments lose their strength. Although osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine does not manifest itself immediately, the patient still needs medical help.
Causes of disease
The causes of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine are the same as in diseases of other departments. It's first :
- wrong way of life;
- Overweight;
- sedentary lifestyle;
- bad habits;
- Diabetes;
- hormonal disturbances;
- rachiocampus;
- the presence of osteochondrosis in any other department.
If several factors are involved, the risk of developing osteochondrosis increases significantly. A particular risk of getting sick also exists among those whose work is associated with 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.
Disease symptoms
In order to be able to consult a doctor quickly, it is important to be able to recognize the first signs of the disease:
- persistent back pain;
- girdle pain in thoracic region on inspiration;
- heart pain that does not stop after taking heart medications;
- numbness in the chest area;
- pain when trying to raise your hand;
- itching, burning sensation or coldness in the lower extremities;
- digestive system disorders;
- loss of sensation in the limbs;
- violation of potency in men.
Obviously, there is a risk of confusing osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine with other diseases. For example, you might think you have heart, stomach, or nervous system problems. Therefore, in order to establish an accurate diagnosis and prescribe additional treatment of the spine, it is important to consult a doctor.
Methods of treating the disease
With osteochondrosis, doctors use several methods of treatment. For example, most often the first step in admitting a patient to hospital is drug therapy. If necessary, he is prescribed painkillers. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can also be used to relieve swelling or inflammation.
When first aid is provided, chondroprotectors can be used, the effect of which is not immediately noticeable, but is very effective with prolonged use. The use of vitamins and minerals necessary for the normal functioning of human cartilage tissue plays an important role.
In addition to prescribing medications, 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 help strengthen the muscles of the spine and relieve pain.
Just as exercises are effective for thoracic osteochondrosis, massage plays an important role in treatment. This method allows you to relax tight muscles in the spine, which means releasing pinched nerve endings. Massage should be performed by a specialist, and the duration of treatment by this method should be at least two weeks.
Also, an excellent result in the treatment of osteochondrosis can be achieved if water procedures are used. Swimming, hydromassage (underwater massage), baths 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 in the nerve endings, as well as quickly relieve pain.
How can you help yourself at home?
Sometimes 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. It is impossible to completely cure osteochondrosis even in a hospital setting. It is important to keep it in good working order for as long as possible.
To help you in the fight against this disease, it is important to follow a few simple rules:
- during the day, regularly 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 the treatment of the back.
If it becomes apparent that the condition of the spine is getting worse, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Specialists will perform all the necessary complex laboratory tests, for example, they will perform 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 is well chosen and will bring quick relief.