Osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is much rarer 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: it has 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 disease of the spine, the intervertebral discs become thinner and lose elasticity. The body of the discs, if left untreated, is destroyed from time to time, and the joints and ligaments lose strength. Although thoracic spine osteochondrosis does not manifest immediately, the patient still needs medical attention.
Causes of 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 disorders;
- rachiocampsis;
- the presence of osteochondrosis in any other department.
If there are several factors, then the risk of developing osteochondrosis increases significantly. There is a special risk of illness in those whose work is associated with a longer stay in the same position. Therefore, it cannot be said that only elderly people suffer from osteochondrosis, or only people who are overweight. In recent years, there has even been a significant rejuvenation of this disease.
Symptoms of the disease
To be able to seek medical help in a timely manner, it is important to know how to recognize the first signs of the disease:
- persistent back pain;
- chest pain when inhaling;
- heart pain that does not stop after taking heart medications;
- stiffness in the chest area;
- pain when trying to raise the arm;
- itching, tingling or cold in the lower extremities;
- disorders of the digestive system;
- loss of sensation in the limbs;
- violation of potency in men.
Apparently, there is a risk of confusing thoracic spine osteochondrosis with other diseases. For example, you may think you have problems with your heart, stomach or nervous system. Therefore, it is important to seek medical help to make an accurate diagnosis, as well as to prescribe further treatment of the spine.
Disease treatment methods
In osteochondrosis, doctors use several methods of treatment. For example, most often the first step in admitting a patient to the hospital is drug therapy. If necessary, he is prescribed painkillers. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can also be used to relieve swelling or inflammation.
Chondroprotectors can be used in first aid, the effect of which is not immediately noticeable, but is very effective in long-term 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, your doctor may recommend exercises for thoracic osteochondrosis. As practice shows, this method has its 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 exercise is effective in thoracic osteochondrosis, massage plays an important role in healing. This method allows you to relax the tense muscles of the spine, which means releasing tight nerve endings. The massage should be performed by a specialist, and the course of treatment with 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 for 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 yourself fight this disease, it is important to follow a few simple rules:
- change the position of the spine regularly during the day;
- several times a day try to lie down for 30-40 minutes;
- engage more in outdoor activities, such as swimming;
- apply a set of exercises to treat the back.
If it becomes obvious that the condition of the spine is only getting worse, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Specialists will perform all the necessary complex of laboratory tests, for example, they will make an X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging, take blood for biochemical analysis and make a correct diagnosis. In that case, you can be sure that the treatment was chosen correctly and that it will bring quick relief.