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. Also, its structure is special: there are much 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 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 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;
- hormonal disruptions;
- rachiocampsis;
- the presence of osteochondrosis in any other department.
If several factors take place, then the risk of developing osteochondrosis increases significantly. 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 aged 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 a timely manner, it is important to be able to recognize the first signs of the disease:
- persistent back pain;
- girdle pain in the chest area on inspiration;
- heart pain that does not stop after taking cardiac drugs;
- numbness in the chest area;
- pain when trying to raise a hand;
- itching, burning sensation or coldness in the lower extremities;
- disorders in the digestive system;
- 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 that you have problems with your heart, stomach, or nervous system. Therefore, in order to establish an accurate diagnosis, as well as to 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, most often the first step in a patient's admission to a hospital is drug therapy. If necessary, he is prescribed painkillers. Non-steroidal 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. 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 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 thoracic region help strengthen the muscles of the spine, as well as relieve pain.
Just as exercises are effective for thoracic osteochondrosis, massage plays an important role in treatment. This method allows you to relax the tense muscles of the 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.
Also, a great 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 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 any 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 condition as long as possible.
To help yourself 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;
- 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 only getting worse, it is important to immediately seek medical help. Specialists will carry out all the necessary complex of laboratory tests, for example, they will make an X-ray or MRI, take blood for biochemical analysis and establish the correct diagnosis. In this case, you can be sure that the treatment is chosen correctly, and that it will bring quick relief.