Thoracic osteochondrosis is a serious disease that few people face.This is a degenerative change in the intervertebral discs.The danger of pathology is that, in the absence of competent and timely treatment, it causes irreversible damage to internal organs and deformations of the chest.Thoracic osteochondrosis and its symptoms can manifest in all people, because sedentary lifestyle and the consequences that arise from it are a problem of modern society.
Causes of the disease
The causes of osteochondrosis of the thoracic region are varied and depend on many factors.The main thing is disturbances in the metabolism of the intervertebral discs, improper distribution of the load on them, dystrophic pathologies develop: scoliosis, another type of curvature of the spine.
Every second patient seeking help with a diagnosis of thoracic osteochondrosis is forced to sit for a long time in a static state at work, in the office, while driving a car.
The development of pathology is facilitated by lifestyle:
- poor nutrition, lack of routine in eating;
- disruption of normal liver function;
- sedentary work;
- overweight;
- Sedentary lifestyle, excessive physical activity.
Prevention of thoracic osteochondrosis is simple.The illness is difficult for him to overcome.At the slightest sign of illness it is advisable to consult a doctor.
Symptoms
The symptoms of thoracic osteochondrosis are pronounced and difficult to ignore.They are similar to other diseases, which is why in medicine the disease is called chameleon.Main symptoms:
- tingling sensation throughout the body, especially in the chest area;
- sexual dysfunction, in men – impotence;
- numbness;
- inheritance;
- alterations in the functioning of the cardiovascular system;
- weakness in the arms;
- decreased mobility in the thoracic region;
- Chest pain that worsens with active movement, sometimes when breathing.It has a painful and tight character.
In rare cases, toothache occurs.
This type of osteochondrosis is often confused with other diseases due to pain in the stomach, heart: myocardial infarction, peptic ulcer of the gastrointestinal tract.
Doctors divide pain, as a symptom of a type of osteochondrosis, into 2 categories.Some experts distinguish 3:
- Dorsago.The pain is sharp, intense and “comes” in sudden attacks.There may be difficulty breathing.Vertebral syndrome occurs in people who sit for long periods of time, leaning over a surface.Movements of the thoracic and lumbar spine are limited.With osteochondrosis, patients compare pain in the sternum with a stake in the chest.
- Dorsalgia.The pain is mild.It usually starts gradually and lasts for several weeks.There may be mobility restrictions.The pain intensifies with sudden movements and at night.
- Thoracalgia or intercostal neuralgia.Pain sensations appear in the rib area and radiate to the shoulder and shoulder blade.
With severe stress, overwork, sudden intense physical exertion, the symptoms intensify.
Thoracic osteochondrosis and cough are incompatible.Lung symptoms occur with pneumonia, which causes pain in the chest area.Possible fever.
The main difference between the diseases is that pain during pneumonia does not have a clear localization.
To diagnose the disease, a complete examination is performed, including x-ray and CT scan.
Pharmacological treatment
In most cases, conservative treatment methods are resorted to, depending on the pain of thoracic osteochondrosis.At first, pain and inflammation are relieved.Subsequently, the result obtained is consolidated with the help of yoga and vitamin complexes.Many patients do not dare to seek help from doctors;They mistakenly believe that osteochondrosis can only be cured surgically.
Various therapies are prescribed (massage, physiotherapy, acupuncture, moxotherapy).The course of treatment lasts 5 to 8 sessions, depending on the stage of the disease.To eliminate acute pain, 2 to 4 procedures are enough.
Medicines for osteochondrosis of the thoracic region are prescribed individually.Several types are used: steroid hormones, analgesics, anti-inflammatory and non-steroidal.Immunostimulants and medications are used to normalize metabolism in the body.Doctors rarely prescribe sedative medications when anxiety occurs.
During treatment, it is important to avoid injuries and bruises to the spine.
Treatment with traditional methods.
Treatment of thoracic osteochondrosis with traditional methods is an additional measure.Healers offer ways:
- Mix linseed oil and horseradish juice in equal proportions.Rub the mixture daily on the chest area.
- Pour a tablespoon of mint or lemon balm into a glass of boiling water and let it steep for 10-15 minutes.Take the decoction at room temperature daily in several doses on an empty stomach.
- Mix a tablespoon of butter or lard with a tablespoon of hop cones, previously ground into powder.The ointment helps with osteochondrosis, gout and rheumatism.
- Wild strawberry tea is suitable for the treatment of osteochondrosis.Pour a tablespoon of crushed leaves, fruits and berries with a glass of boiling water.Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes.Take 2-3 glasses a day.
- Pour 2 tablespoons of chamomile into a glass container and pour 250-300 ml of boiling water (can be boiled for 5-10 minutes).Take the decoction daily, half a glass 2-3 times.The course of treatment is individual until the pain disappears.
The effectiveness of traditional methods of treatment has been proven, but they must be used under the strict supervision of a doctor and determine the presence of individual contraindications.
therapeutic gymnastics
Yoga for thoracic osteochondrosis is mandatory and is considered the second step on the path to recovery.Aimed at reducing muscle tension, restoring blood circulation and releasing pinched nerve roots.The exercises strengthen the muscular structure of the neck, lower back, chest and spine as a whole, correct posture and prevent relapses.Movements during yoga are gentle (sudden ones will worsen the condition) and painless.Do the exercises regularly, otherwise they will be ineffective.
On the Internet there are many recommendations and exercises for osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine.It is worth doing therapeutic yoga under the supervision of a doctor, especially at the beginning.Otherwise, serious and irreversible consequences are possible.
We must not forget about preventive measures:
- moderate salt intake;
- swimming, bathhouse, sauna;
- physiotherapeutic procedures – magnetotherapy, laser therapy;
- moderate physical activity;
- massage;
- alternating static load with dynamic load.
Not many suffer from chest pain (15% of patients with disorders of the musculoskeletal system).It is rare, since the spine in this part of the body is well fixed and inactive.The symptoms are difficult to confuse with other types of osteochondrosis.Pathology can be cured, the main thing is not to delay visiting the doctor.