Chest osteochondrosis is much less common than problems in other departments. However, the rarity of this disease can not 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 chest 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 joints and ligaments lose strength. Although thoracic osteochondrosis does not appear immediately, the patient still needs medical attention.
Causes of the disease
The causes of osteochondrosis of the chest are the same as in diseases of other departments. The first is:
- wrong way of life;
- Overweight;
- sedentary way of life;
- bad habits;
- diabetes;
- hormonal disorders;
- rachiocampis;
- 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 getting sick and those whose work is associated with prolonged stay in the same position. Therefore, it cannot be said that only the elderly 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:
- constant back pain;
- lumbar chest pain on inspiration;
- heart pain that does not stop after taking heart medications;
- tingling in the chest area;
- pain when trying to raise the arm;
- itching, burning or chills in the lower extremities;
- disorders of the digestive system;
- loss of sensation in the limbs;
- potency disorder in men.
There is obviously a risk of confusing osteochondrosis of the chest 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 to prescribe further treatment of the spine, it is important to seek medical help.
Methods of treating the disease
In 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.
Chondroprotectors can be used in first aid, 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, your doctor may recommend exercise for thoracic osteochondrosis. As practice shows, this method has its positive dynamics in the treatment of such diseases. Exercises for osteochondrosis of the chest help to 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 treatment. This method allows you to relax the tense muscles of the spine, which means releasing compressed nerve endings. The massage should be performed by a specialist, and the course of treatment with this method should be at least two weeks.
Great results can also be achieved in the treatment of osteochondrosis 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 medical treatment. How can you help yourself in this case?
Above all, it is important to give up all 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 fight 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 to treat the back.
If it becomes apparent that the condition of the spine is only getting worse, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Specialists will perform the necessary set of laboratory tests, for example, will take 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.