Treatment of thoracic osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis is the wear and tear of the intervertebral discs, causing degenerative organic changes in the spine. Osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is considered the rarest because this part has the least mobility due to its ligaments to the ribs. But this condition occurs most insidiously and severely, and develops earlier than other types. The treatment of thoracic osteochondrosis is characterized by comprehensive treatment with good results. With effective treatments, a person can regain mobility, lightness, and life without pain.

reason

The main factors leading to the occurrence of thoracic osteochondrosis include:

• Kyphosis and scoliosis. These disorders usually accompany a person from birth as an anatomical abnormality. If kyphosis is corrected, a person may live half their life without knowing it exists. Scoliosis is a curvature of the spine that results in impaired muscle load distribution. As a result, on the one hand, the muscles will atrophy and relax, and on the other hand, they will spasm due to continued tension.
• Injuried. These symptoms may be noticeable when a person sustains an injury to their vertebrae in a fall, accident, or other similar situation. The damage may not be obvious. For example, spinal injuries are common due to overuse and lifting weights in the gym.
• flatfoot. Some doctors believe that this is the leading cause of degenerative changes in almost any part of the spine. Flat feet disrupt the balance of muscle bundles; improper load redistribution can lead to degenerative and damaged vertebrae.
• Maintaining incorrect body posture for long periods of time. Due to excessive muscle tension, blood circulation and nutrients to the muscle tissue deteriorate. That is, they hold the spine. This is not only the cause of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine, but also of the cervical and lumbar spine.
• Being overweight and not getting enough physical activity.
• pressure. Stress itself is not as dangerous as the reaction to stress. During stress, the adrenal glands produce excess amounts of adrenaline, which is converted into norepinephrine. It promotes thickening of blood vessel walls and the progression of atherosclerosis. Under stressful conditions, blood vessels can narrow, resulting in insufficient oxygen supply to muscle tissue.
• Drinking alcohol, smoking, using other drugs, and poor diet. Alcohol leach calcium from bone tissue. Tobacco and other drugs can cause abnormal blood vessel function. Serious errors in nutrition can lead to obesity and lack of B vitamins and minerals.
• Bags and shoes are not worn properly.
• Gastrointestinal disorders that affect the quality of nutrient absorption.
• Chronic violation of water and electrolyte balance.
• Pregnant. Chest osteochondrosis usually occurs in women who are pregnant with twins or triplets.
• Metabolic syndrome.
• Autoimmune diseases, infections, poisonings.
• Genetic predispositions associated with genetic mutations. You should not assume that a genetic predisposition is necessarily related to the fact that one of your close relatives has osteochondrosis. Usually, this has nothing to do with genetics. A genetic predisposition is always a mutation in certain genes. But even so, the disease only occurs in combination with other factors.

The disease can occur in adulthood and young adulthood. The condition is getting younger year by year. Therefore, it is important to detect problems early by paying attention to the symptoms.

symptom

Degenerative changes in the thoracic spine have attracted great attention. The thoracic region contains the heart, lungs, abdominal viscera, ribs, and in women, the mammary glands. Symptoms in this area may resemble angina, heart disease, or pain in the stomach, breast, or any other nearby organ. Therefore, when osteochondrosis occurs, it is often mistaken for other dangerous conditions.Symptoms and treatment of thoracic osteochondrosis are related because of both types of clinical manifestations.

Radical signs

Root symptoms:

• Shoulder, armpit, or collarbone pain;
• Impaired reflexes;
• muscle weakness;
• Upper chest pain, similar to a heart attack, solar plexus pain, rib pain, breast pain, upper abdominal pain, or pain in the groin area.

reflex signs

symptom:

• Respiratory disorders, such as feeling short of air, pain during inhalation and exhalation, difficulty breathing;
• Chills, "goosebumps" feeling;
• Feelings of gastrointestinal disturbance: nausea, loss of appetite, heartburn, diarrhea or constipation, bloating;
• intercostal neuralgia;
• Ringing pain in the chest between the shoulder blades on bending and straightening;
• Feeling tired and fatigued due to insomnia or lack of sleep;
• Stiffness in movement in the morning;
• worsening of gait;
• irritability;
• Decreased libido/potency.

Reflex symptoms are more vague than radicular symptoms and are often misunderstood by doctors. Therefore, it is important to find a competent doctor who takes the patient's complaints seriously and prescribes the correct treatment for thoracic osteochondrosis, especially during periods of exacerbation.

diagnosis

The gold standard for diagnosing thoracic osteochondrosis is a thoracic spine MRI and examination by a neurologist.MRI provides accurate visualization of anatomy, changes, compression, blood flow, and effects on the spinal cord. Additionally, the study shows that there may be complications of the disease, such as protrusions, osteophytes, hernias and their impact on blood flow.As before, the examination of a competent physician plays an important role in diagnosis.

treat

Many people have heard that osteochondrosis cannot be completely eliminated, only its progression can be slowed. This is a half-truth. You can eliminate hernias, osteophytes, and other complications of the disease. You can get back to your life pain-free, move easily, and restore your discs. There is a good chance of stopping the destructive process and returning the spine to its previous state as closely as possible. Some people successfully outgrow their pathology entirely, while others do not. Everything is individual and depends on health, willingness to overcome difficulties and patience.You must be prepared that treatment for thoracic osteochondrosis will take a long time. On average, active participation takes 1-3 months. But even then, life will never be the same as regular and appropriate physical activity is required for at least a year.In this case, neither finances nor time are excuses for refusing treatment, since you can fight the disease in a hospital or nursing home as well as at home. The most convenient option is a nursing home. There, patients are supported by a group of people with the same problem, but in positive and welcoming conditions. The medical staff are always resourceful and caring. There you can relax and receive treatment without a hospital atmosphere, but with access to all necessary medical services.Treatment consists of several stages:

1. Get rid of pain (wear a special corset, take painkillers, undergo surgery);
2. Repair damaged discs and take preventive measures to prevent the progression of the disease (physical therapy, gymnastics, proper nutrition, help from a psychologist).

Medication may also be used, but it is considered a last resort when other methods have not helped. In the most severe cases and dangerous hernias, surgery is required.The most important rule is not to self-medicate or self-diagnose. Mistakes can be very costly.

treatment at home

If you don’t have the time or the wherewithal to travel to a clinic or nursing home for treatment, getting rid of osteochondrosis at home can yield impressive results. The following suggestions will help you cope with this disease.

Nutrition

It is necessary to introduce in weight loss foods that help speed up metabolism (prevent excess weight) and regenerate cartilage tissue. It is important that the food you eat is rich in nutrients, trace elements, antioxidants, polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins and is easy to digest.You need to eat 4-5 times a day, every 2. 5-3 hours, preferably at the same time. The portion size should not exceed 300 grams to avoid overtaxing the stomach and liver. Three meals should contain 26-30 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building muscle tissue. In this way, metabolism will speed up, the body will stop accumulating fat, and cells will receive a steady stream of nutrients.The first breakfast and dinner should be protein-based. For example, egg whites and cucumbers. The main rule for the first and last meals is to avoid insulin spikes, which is achieved by eliminating carbohydrates. Although cucumbers are carbohydrates, they have a low glycemic index. Protein is difficult to digest without small amounts of fat and carbohydrates. Recommended Products:

• Legumes as a protein substitute for meat (legumes, including green beans, lentils, peas);
• Lots of vegetables (except starchy vegetables, which should be eaten with caution);
• Jellies and jellies (contains natural collagen, essential for joints);
• Chicken wings (the bones must be chewed off, the contents are the most valuable);
• Limited quantities of poultry and red meat;
• Salmon, caviar and fish whites;
• Squid and seaweed (no more than 100 grams at a time);
• Olive oil, flaxseed oil, flaxseed oil (if no liver problems), sesame oil; adults should avoid sunflower oil;
• Low sugar fruit, limited quantity

All dishes should be boiled, steamed, stewed or eaten fresh.A water regime is mandatory as the required amount of water relieves dehydration, nourishes cells and promotes weight loss. Daily water intake is calculated using a simple formula: 30 x body weight. Tea, coffee, herbal infusions, juices and juice drinks are not considered water.

Physical exercise

Physical exercise is an important part of treating osteochondrosis in any part of the spine. The following technologies may be included:

• Gymnastics was invented by scientist Yuri Gushcho. It includes elements of dynamic and static yoga. He also recommended implementing a reinforcement program. If you are interested, you can read his book "12 Keys to a Long and Safe Life" where he talks about how to live as long as possible while being active. It makes sense to believe him, since Yuri stood up from a wheelchair independently and recovered from a hip problem. He received many awards and was thanked by the President of the Russian Federation.
• Gymnastics using Dr. Bubnovsky's technique. His technique is very effective and can be done at home. You can find a set of exercises in video format on the Internet, or you can find books with complete instructions.
• pool. Swimming can not only help lose weight, but also enhance cardiopulmonary function and exercise back muscles.
• Isometric gymnastics. This type of exercise was originally developed for astronauts returning home. Exercise can restore weak muscles, restore flexibility and freedom of movement without damaging the joints. Gymnastics is indicated for the treatment of many conditions of the musculoskeletal system, including osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine.
• Walking in the open air. It is recommended to spend an hour each day on vigorous walking, preferably in a park area or coastal area. The goal is to improve brain circulation, muscle nutrition, and mood.
• Practice correcting your posture.

Get enough rest

Getting into the habit of going to bed and waking up at the same time is imperative. Ideally, go to bed at 21: 00 and wake up at 5-6 am. During this time, the brain manages to restore the functioning of the body's internal systems, the psyche, and process all the information received the previous day. This is especially important for spinal health.In order to sleep, you need to choose the right mattress and pillow. It's best to forget about the option of being too soft or too hard.

Treatment in a hospital or nursing home

manual therapy

This is done with the help of the hands on the patient's body to restore metabolism and give the spine the correct shape. The procedure includes techniques to restore joint function, relaxing massage to relieve pain and muscle tension, and activities to improve circulation and relaxation.Treatment time is approximately 3 months.

massage

Classic therapeutic massage and acupressure are used when treating degenerative changes in the thoracic spine. Massage therapists work on the muscle fibers of the upper back and shoulders to affect the chest area.

mineral bath

During surgery, the body's hemodynamics change. This means that blood flows from the center to the periphery and from there to the heart, driving blood through all organs and tissues. Thus achieving the following effects:

• Improved blood circulation;
• The nervous system is strengthened;
• better respiratory and kidney function;
• The body’s ability to adapt increases;
• Reduce inflammation;
• relief the pain;
• eliminate toxins;
• Increased skin sensitivity.

The chemical composition of the water affects the effects of mineral baths on the body of patients with osteochondrosis. Water temperature affects muscle relaxation and metabolic processes.

acupuncture

Also, this procedure is called acupuncture or acupuncture. Its essence lies in affecting the biological points of the human body with the help of needles. Sterile long and short needles are inserted to a depth of 15 mm and left for half an hour.This seemingly simple procedure has been proven around the world. Patient reviews indicate the following results after completing a course of acupuncture:

• relaxation;
• Tinnitus and dizziness stop;
• increase energy potential;
• Improve blood flow;
• Improve thought processes;
• Get rid of headaches;
• Relieve muscle spasms.

Laser Treatment

The advantage of laser treatment is to increase the penetration of drugs and normalize the adaptive properties of the body. During the procedure, a range of laser beams are directed at the area of the spine that needs treatment. The result of exposure is an anti-inflammatory effect, the metabolism of the affected area is normalized, the overall health improves, tissue regeneration processes begin, and degenerative processes stop.The degenerative process can be completely reversed after completing the entire course of treatment as part of a complex treatment.

mud therapy

This process is not only beneficial for the spine, but for the entire body. The only thing is that it cannot be used in the acute stage of osteochondrosis.The effects of mud therapy include improving the nutrition, vascular function, adaptation and recovery processes of the intervertebral joint structures. In addition, the function of the nervous system normalizes and pain disappears.

Work with a psychologist

Due to the constant stress that patients with osteochondrosis experience, states of anxiety often occur. Psychologists can not only help get rid of them, but also provide stimulation in moments of despair and fatigue. A positive attitude plays an important role in therapy.

exercise therapy

The treatment process takes place in groups of multiple people and includes exercises that take into account the individual characteristics of the patient and their medical history. The emphasis is on improving joint function and strengthening muscle tights. Complete recovery is impossible without exercise.

nordic walking

This is one of the most effective types of physical activity for treating osteochondrosis and is becoming more popular every year.When walking with a stick, 90% of the muscles become toned, calories are actively burned, the load is evenly distributed throughout the body, the cardiovascular system is strengthened, intestinal function is improved, the nervous system and psychology are strengthened, the respiratory system is improved, and insomnia disappears. The blood vessels are strengthened and a strong corset is formed around the thoracic spine.

medical treatement

Drug therapy is used only in the acute phase of osteochondrosis and when other treatments have failed.In the most severe stages of the disease, doctors prescribe painkillers as well as drugs that speed up metabolic processes. Both tablets and injections can help.Prescription Drug Group:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can also relieve pain. Available in cream, tablet, and ampoule forms for intravenous or subcutaneous administration.
• Vasodilators. When muscles are tense and in severe pain, blood vessels constrict, causing blood pressure to rise and making it difficult to supply oxygen to the brain. Vasodilators return blood vessel tone to normal.
• Muscle relaxants. This group of medications is designed to relax and soothe tense muscles. This effect triggers a range of beneficial changes, such as improved blood circulation, regulation of blood vessel tone, and pain relief. When blood flow returns to normal, damaged tissue recovers faster.
• Chondroprotectant and B vitamins. These drugs restore cartilage tissue and stop the damaging process.
• Tranquilizer complex. The pressure of pain can make the pain worse. Irritability and anxiety trigger activity in the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in greater tone in muscles and blood vessels. Sedatives and sometimes antidepressants can break this vicious cycle.

As you can see, the treatment of osteochondrosis requires a comprehensive study, studying all its nuances. It’s better to protect yourself from mistakes by turning to experts.