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 thoracic region is less mobile than, for example, the cervical region. In addition, its structure is special: there are many more vertebrae than in other departments, and the discs themselves are 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 surrounding bone tissue. Due to this spinal disease, the intervertebral discs become thinner and lose their elasticity. The disc body, if left untreated, is destroyed from time to time, and the joints and ligaments lose strength. Although osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine does not manifest right away, the patient still needs medical help.
Causes of disease
The causes of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine are the same as for diseases of other departments. First is:
- wrong way of life;
- overweight;
- sedentary lifestyle;
- bad habits;
- diabetes;
- hormonal disturbances;
- rachiocampus;
- the presence of osteochondrosis in any other department.
If several factors occur, the risk of developing osteochondrosis significantly increases. A special risk of getting sick is also in those whose work is associated with staying in the same position for a long time. Therefore, it cannot be said that only elderly 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 seek medical help in a timely manner, it is important to be able to recognize the first signs of the disease:
- persistent back pain;
- pain in the waist in the chest region on inspiration;
- heart pain that doesn't stop after taking heart medications;
- numbness in the chest area;
- pain when trying to lift the hand;
- itching, burning or cold sensation in the lower extremities;
- digestive system disorders;
- loss of sensation in the limbs;
- violation of potency in men.
Of course, there is a risk of confusing osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine with other diseases. For example, you may think you have problems with your heart, stomach, or nervous system. Therefore, in order to establish an accurate diagnosis, as well as prescribe additional spinal treatment, it is important to seek medical help.
Treatment methods for the disease
With osteochondrosis, doctors use several treatment methods. For example, most of the time, the first step in admitting a patient to a hospital is drug therapy. If necessary, he is prescribed painkillers. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications 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. 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 thoracic region help to strengthen the muscles of the spine, in addition to relieving pain.
Just as exercises are effective for thoracic osteochondrosis, massage plays an important role in the treatment. This method allows you to relax tense muscles in your spine, which means releasing pinched nerve endings. Massage should be performed by a specialist, and the course of treatment by this method should be at least two weeks.
In addition, an optimal result in the treatment of osteochondrosis can be achieved if water procedures are used. Swimming, hydromassage (underwater massage), baths have a good 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 relieving pain.
How can you help yourself at home?
It turns out 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 bad habits and take care of the health of the 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 yourself in the fight against this disease, it is important to follow some simple rules:
- during the day, regularly change the position of the spine;
- several times a day, try to lie down for 30 to 40 minutes;
- engage in outdoor activities, such as swimming more;
- apply a set of exercises for the treatment of the back.
If it becomes obvious that the condition of the spine is getting worse, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Specialists will carry out all the necessary complex of laboratory tests, for example, they will take an X-ray or MRI, collect blood for biochemical analysis and establish the correct diagnosis. In that case, you can be sure that the treatment was chosen correctly and will bring you quick relief.