It is rarely possible to diagnose thoracic osteochondrosis of the spine (OG), unlike cervical and lumbar, which are found in every 2-3 patients 18 years of age or older. This phenomenon is explained by the special structure of the thoracic part: the presence of a greater number of discs, which in turn have a finer structure. This part of the spine has little mobility and, consequently, the load on it is not high, since the main "blow" is received by the sternum together with the ribs.
The main reason that the development of thoracic pathology begins is an increased load on the intervertebral discs and, as a result, a violation of metabolic processes, as well as their structure.. . . In the presence of such an ailment, the shock-absorbing properties of the disc are lost, the fibrous ring becomes thinner, dries out, after this process, the nerve endings become inflamed, the person feels constant pain, discomfort and motor activity. decreases. . With the rapid course of the disease, it affects the ligaments of the spine and joint joints.
Now, many experts have taken as a rule to classify osteochondrosis not by the stages of the course, but by degrees, which are further distinguished by the peculiarities of the symptoms.
If we take into account the general symptomatology, osteochondrosis of the thoracic region is not so pronounced, unlike its other types, however, there is a characteristic clinical picture. So, the patient may complain about the presence of the following signs:
- pain in the thoracic region, often aggravated by prolonged exposure to one position or at night;
- pain sensation between the shoulder blades, while increasing when raising the arm or after physical exertion;
- discomfort, pain when trying to breathe deeply, this symptom is also noticeable when you exhale;
- When walking, there is pain in the ribs and a feeling of tightness in the chest area.
Such manifestations can accompany a person for several weeks, which should be considered as an exacerbation of the disease.
What other symptoms can be seen with HO? In addition to the main clinical picture, in some cases the following manifestations are possible:
- numbness of the upper extremities, a sensation of "goose bumps" running down the skin;
- alteration of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract;
- feeling of cold in the legs, inability to warm them.
Also, the characteristic signs of such an ailment are dorsagus, the appearance of a sharp pain between the shoulder blades and back pain, a slow pain syndrome that does not have a pronounced image.
It should be noted that, like any other type of osteochondrosis, chest disease usually affects people who lead an inactive lifestyle. Constantly sitting in front of the computer, bending over, intense physical exertion, also become a provoking factor in the development of the disease.
How does the disease manifest itself in women and men?
The development of degenerative-dystrophic processes in the thoracic region in patients is considered a diagnosis - thoracic osteochondrosis. With this disease, there is the destruction of the intervertebral discs and malnutrition in the connective tissue structures. In addition, the blood circulation process is interrupted, since the chest area is inactive. And the pain syndrome itself occurs due to pinching of nerve endings during the progression of pathology.
As statistical data indicates, HO is diagnosed in women sometimes more often than in men, and at the same time at a younger age. The main reason for this phenomenon is the change in hormonal levels when entering the menopausal phase. The impetus for the development of the disease is also osteoporosis, which is often detected in women during the onset of menopause.
Therapeutic measures are developed taking into account the clinical picture of the pathology. Serious symptoms do not appear immediately, it often takes a long time to suspect the presence of the disease. Specifically, it is possible to establish a diagnosis already in the course of a pronounced picture, when the symptoms have become obvious. When it comes to a pronounced period, two types of symptoms should be distinguished here:
- Development of painful sensations.. . . Here we are talking about the appearance of pain in the thoracic region, between the shoulder blades, radiating to the solar plexus area. The pain syndrome can migrate to the neck area, mimicking cervical and arm osteochondrosis. Often women observe pain in the mammary glands, mistaking them for breast pathologies. As a general rule, pain sensations are not permanent, they are painful, but at the same time, they do not have intensity.
- Blood pressure disorder. . . With breast osteochondrosis in women, there is hypertensive syndrome, which is characterized by increased pressure and can lead to a hypertensive crisis. A hallmark of normal hypertension may be the presence of a minimal effect from the use of drugs that lower blood pressure. In the event that you have had similar situations, you should additionally consult with a vertebrologist.
In addition to the above, other signs of degenerative-dystrophic disorders in the thoracic spine must be distinguished:
- Pain in the left side of the thoracic region,not associated with heart damage. . . In medical terminology, this phenomenon is called cardialgia. It is not difficult to diagnose it, since with the development of such a symptom, it cannot be stopped with the use of cardiac drugs.
- Disruption of the functioning of the digestive system.. . . Often, with the onset of the progression of osteochondrosis, problems begin with the internal organs, most often with the gastrointestinal tract. The most striking example is the formation of heartburn, an increase in acidity and a constant feeling of bloating (flatulence). Among other things, there may be problems with the digestion of food: nausea after eating, heaviness, bloating. Against the background of all the above, the work of the chair is also interrupted: frequent constipation or diarrhea.
- Respiratory disorders. . . Since the dystrophic process takes place in the chest area, cases of violation of the respiratory system are not uncommon. All of this is accompanied by unreasonable dizziness, general weakness, shortness of breath, and other signs that may indirectly resemble heart disease or problems with (arterial / intracranial) pressure.
With regard to therapy, it largely depends on the signs of the pathological process. To relieve pain, pain relievers are prescribed, including NSAIDs in the form of ointments or gels. During the period of exacerbation, muscle relaxants are most effective, reduce spasm of smooth muscles, relax muscles, relieve pain syndrome, reviews of their use are positive. When the pain becomes completely unbearable, blockade with painkillers is used.
Thoracic treatment
How exactly GO will manifest depends on the pathological changes that take place in the intervertebral discs. It is usual to distinguish four stages of the course of degenerative-dystrophic disorders in the chest:
- The first. . . The symptoms are not particularly pronounced, however, the process of dehydration of the discs of the thoracic spine has already begun. As a result, they lose their elasticity, begin to acquire a more flattened appearance, but, at the same time, they can still withstand certain loads. Occasionally, pain-type painful sensations are altered, but they are not mild and often do not require taking pain relievers.
- The second. . . At this stage, negative changes affected the fibrous ring, various types of damage are observed: cracks, loss of stability. There are changes in the pain syndrome, it becomes more intrusive, palpable, intensifies with increased motor activity - it bends, twists.
- The third. . . On x-rays, the ruptured annulus fibrosus is clearly visible and a hernia begins to form. Pain sensations become clearer, from a complaining character it can flow to a more acute one, intensifying with movements and even at rest.
- Four. . . Spondyloarthrosis is actively developing, against the background of the convergence of the vertebrae and the erasure of the discs. As a result, the connective tissue of the annulus fibrosus is replaced by bone tissue, which significantly limits motor capacity.
The clinical picture of thoracic osteochondrosis is such that it is more likely to diagnose this disorder:
- Pain. . . Most of the time, your location is in a specific place, often to the left. After a while, it spreads over the entire chest area, breathing becomes difficult, it becomes difficult to climb stairs or exercise.
- Increased pain. . . Strengthening occurs when turning or bending over, in general, with any physical activity, the same is observed when trying to breathe deeply.
- Muscle spasm. . . Muscle spasm is in addition to the above symptoms, the contraction falls mainly in the upper back. In rarer cases, this symptom is present in the lower back.
Separately, it is worth noting intercostal neuralgia, which tends to last for several weeks and then goes away on its own. During this time, a person is accompanied by chest discomfort, aggravated by movements, discomfort when trying to inhale / exhale deeply. Women may have the impression of having problems with the mammary glands, which will make them think about treating them, and in men, the sensation of a foreign object behind the breastbone.
It should also be borne in mind that the entire clinical picture described above is intensified at night or after hypothermia. The next morning, as a rule, it becomes easier, but towards the evening everything repeats itself again.
How to treat, what methods exist, what to wear? Regarding therapeutic measures, they should be started as soon as possible. Often, in the early stages, it is possible to do without even the use of drugs, but only with regular gymnastics - exercise therapy.
The later stages of the development of pathology, in 2 degrees, involve the use of drugs. This includes several groups of drugs, the most popular are presented in the table below.
| Drug group | The main action of the medication. |
|---|---|
| Pain relievers, pain relievers | They relieve pain syndrome, reduce its manifestation. |
| Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) | Eliminate inflammation, relieve pain, swelling. |
| Chondroprotectors | They increase the production of intra-articular secretions, slow down the cartilage destruction process and reduce the manifestation of the inflammatory process. |
| Muscle relaxants | They reduce the tone of skeletal muscles, have a relaxing effect and help to effectively cope with back pain. |
| Sedatives, sedatives. | For a more effective therapy, since severe pain can lead to stress, which worsens the effect of the treatment. |
In addition to essential drugs, a drug-vitamin course is recommended.
In the event that the entire clinical picture worsens, the main objective of therapy will be to alleviate the symptoms. For a more pronounced and rapid action, analgesic drugs are prescribed in the form of injections, as well as steroid type.
After eliminating the exacerbation and achieving stability of the state, it is necessary to begin basic therapy. A fairly wide range of drugs can be prescribed, since only a complex effect on the disease can give positive results.
The main drugs are described in the table above, then in more detail about them. So, the basic treatment will include the appointment of such drugs:
- Chondroprotectors.They are used in the form of tablets and for local therapy, in the form of ointments or gels. It is impossible to exclude the use of such drugs, they are the basis for complete therapy. Its action aims to inhibit the process of destruction of cartilage tissue and a further progression of dystrophic changes. In addition, they increase the regenerative capacity of cartilage. However, it is impossible to completely get rid of the pathology with the help of such a drug; it should not be considered a panacea.
- Vasodilator. . . They are necessary to improve blood circulation and, consequently, nutrition in the affected area. Most often, a fairly effective drug is prescribed that improves blood microcirculation and helps to cope with pain that occurs at rest.
- Local therapy. . . For the best effect, ointments or gels are prescribed. Therefore, good results can only be achieved with the help of a complex effect, therefore, when prescribing NSAIDs and chondroprotectors, it is customary to additionally recommend ointments of the same pharmacological groups. Creams based on bee or snake venom are also popular, have a pronounced pain-relieving effect, and are a good addition to main therapy.
- Vitamins. . . In particular, B vitamins are prescribed. They have analgesic properties, help to cope with inflammatory processes and infringement of nerve endings.
- Without fail, along with the effect of the drug, a course of physiotherapy, therapeutic massage and exercise therapy is prescribed.
What other methods of therapy should be included in the treatment of thoracic osteochondrosis? An experienced professional will strongly recommend the following techniques:
- magnetotherapy, electrophoresis, therapeutic mud;
- complex of physiotherapy exercises;
- acupuncture, acupressure.
It is also recommended to adhere to a certain diet, you should exclude the use of alcohol, spicy foods, reduce the use of salt.
Special attention should be paid to therapeutic exercises, it should be performed daily and preferably several times a day. Please note that the set of exercises is developed individually by the attending physician, an orthopedist or traumatologist. Physical education is carried out in the absence of exacerbation, when there are no pronounced pains, in case of acute pain syndrome, maximum rest should be adhered to.
Sports with osteochondrosis are not the last thing. With this pathology, it is important to regularly perform all the prescribed exercises that will strengthen the muscles and positively affect the result of treatment.
We must also mention traditional medicine. On the Internet, you can find many recipes based on natural raw materials. It is not recommended to get carried away by home remedies as an independent method, because their effectiveness will be minimal, and in many cases null. However, as an adjunct to conventional therapy, home remedies may be recommended. The following homemade recipes are known:
- Ingredients for the first: 3 tablespoons of rye flour, 1 tablespoon of turpentine and a teaspoon of iodine and garlic. Mix everything well and use as an ointment at night.
- For the second: 5 tablets of sodium metamizole and 5 ml of camphor alcohol. Bring the tablets to the state of a powder, then pour into alcohol and apply overnight in the form of applications.
A needle applicator is considered another alternative therapy. Its action is aimed at reducing pain syndrome through massage with needles.
In the event that all the described methods of therapy did not give the desired result or were not durable, the question of prescribing an operation is decided. Surgery is necessary when it is not possible to eliminate the pain syndrome, the degenerative-dystrophic process continues to develop, at the same time, negative changes are observed in the functioning of internal organs. If the doctor still recommends that you perform the operation, you should not immediately refuse. Timely intervention will allow you to get rid of such a problem, fully restore the work of the organs, and exclude the further development of complications.
The surgery generally involves two stages. The first is aimed at eliminating the cause - decompression, thereby eliminating the pain syndrome. The second stage is the subsequent stabilization of the spine.
Osteochondrosis of the thoracic region is a serious pathology that can not only disrupt the work of the musculoskeletal system, but can also adversely affect the systems and organs.
It is important to monitor your own health, take preventive measures, monitor your diet, and be smart about physical activity. Regular exercise is an effective prevention of osteochondrosis, but do not forget that any load should be moderate.
Treatment of the cervicothoracic type.
Osteochondrosis of the cervicothoracic region is not considered an independent pathology. In this case, we are talking about a set of disorders that appear in the intervertebral discs and are capable of affecting muscle tissue, as well as nearby organs.
Cervicothoracic osteochondrosis is far from uncommon, more than 20% of diagnoses are attributed to this ailment. The disease is very insidious, the variety of the clinical picture in many cases makes the doctor suspect other diseases not related to the spine. For example, a doctor may suggest the presence of angina pectoris, recommend taking a drug, which, in the end, simply will not give any results, and worst of all, negatively affect the state of the heart system. For this reason, it is very important to differentiate osteochondrosis from pathologies of the internal organs. So, for dystrophic disorders in the cervicothoracic region, the following signs are characteristic:
- Frequent headaches;
- loss of strength, followed by dizziness;
- painful pains in the neck, flowing to the shoulders, shoulder blades, a state of muscle stiffness;
- compression of the intercostal nerve roots, hence the pain syndrome, as well as its exacerbation;
- violations of blood pressure, there may be falls from hypertension to hypotension, more often in women;
- decreased visual acuity, hearing aid problems (hearing loss);
- in men, a decrease in power with nervous overload in the context of the disease.
An important point is the formulation of the correct diagnosis; A number of diagnostic measures will be required here, including: X-ray examination, ultrasound, MRI, computed tomography.
Comprehensive treatment is mandatory and must include:
- medicines;
- various physiotherapy techniques;
- physiotherapy;
- non-traditional therapy (acupressure, acupuncture).
It is also important to take care of non-pharmacological measures, for example: reducing physical activity, which includes minimizing the load, changing the mattress and purchasing an orthopedic type pillow.
Atypical symptoms, sensations and pain.
In addition to the typical pains that occur in thoracic osteochondrosis, there are many atypical pains that cannot be associated with diseases of the spine. However, you must know them:
- Heartache. . . Often, with such a pathology, pains in the heart appear, while mimicking the attacks of a heart attack. A distinctive feature is its duration. Unlike true heart pains, with osteochondrosis, the pain is prolonged, it can bother for several weeks. In addition, the use of traditional medicines does not reduce the manifestation of pain. It is here that it is worth thinking about the presence of another pathology that is not related to the heart.
- Imitationpathologies of the mammary glands. . . This clinical picture applies directly to patients. Often thoracic osteochondrosis suggests breast diseases, since a woman can observe pain in the thoracic region for a long time, spreading to the glands. Identifying the true cause of such a symptom, or at least excluding problems with the mammary glands, is possible only after examination by a mammologist.
- Pain in the abdominal cavity. . . This symptom makes one suspect the presence of gastritis and other diseases of the digestive system. By mistake, a gastroenterologist can diagnose pancreatitis or cholecystitis. Such diagnoses can be refuted or confirmed with the help of a comprehensive examination.
- In addition to these signs, the patient may feel a pronouncedchest discomfortdescribed as having a foreign object. It is often difficult to breathe deeply or exhale, the feeling that it is impossible to breathe deeply, shortness of breath with little physical activity.
The process of treating degenerative-dystrophic disorders is not easy, it requires a lot of time, efforts on the part of the patient and qualifications on the part of the treating physician.
Be sure to consult your doctor before treating illnesses. This will help to account for individual tolerance, confirm the diagnosis, ensure that treatment is correct, and exclude negative drug interactions. If you use prescriptions without consulting your doctor, then it is at your own risk. All information is presented for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical aid. All responsibility for the application rests with you.