Thoracic osteochondrosis is a serious disease that few people face.This is a degenerative change in the intervertebral discs.The danger of the pathology is that, in the absence of competent, timely treatment, it leads to irreversible damage to the internal organs and deformations of the chest.Thoracic osteochondrosis and its symptoms can appear in any person, since a sedentary lifestyle and its consequences are a problem of modern society.
Causes of the disease
The causes of osteochondrosis of the chest are diverse and depend on many factors.The main thing is a violation of the metabolism of the intervertebral discs, an incorrect distribution of the load on them, dystrophic pathologies develop - scoliosis, another type of curvature of the spine.
Every second patient who seeks 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 the normal functioning of the liver;
- sedentary work;
- overweight;
- sedentary lifestyle, excessive physical activity.
Prevention of thoracic osteochondrosis is simple.Her illness is difficult to overcome.At the slightest sign of illness, you should consult a doctor.
Symptoms
The symptoms of thoracic osteochondrosis are highly pronounced and difficult to ignore.They are similar to other diseases, which is why the disease is called a chameleon in medicine.Main symptoms:
- crawling sensation all over the body, especially in the chest area;
- sexual dysfunction, in men - impotence;
- numbness;
- heredity;
- disturbances in the functioning of the cardiovascular system;
- weakness in arms;
- reduced mobility in the chest region;
- chest pain that worsens with active movements, sometimes with breathing.It has a painful, apprehensive character.
In rare cases, a 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 bent over a surface.Movements in the thoracic and lumbar spine are limited.With osteochondrosis, patients compare the pain in the sternum to 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 increases with sudden movements and at night.
- Thoracalgia or intercostal neuralgia.Painful sensations appear in the region of the ribs and radiate to the shoulder and scapula.
With severe stress, overwork, sudden heavy physical exertion, the symptoms intensify.
Thoracic osteochondrosis and cough are incompatible.Pulmonary symptoms occur with pneumonia, which causes pain in the chest area.Possible fever.
The main difference between the diseases is that the pain during pneumonia does not have a clear localization.
To diagnose the disease, a comprehensive examination is carried out, including radiography and computer tomography.
Drug treatment
In most cases, they resort to conservative treatment methods, depending on how the thoracic osteochondrosis hurts.At first, the pain and inflammation are relieved.After that, the achieved result 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, moxa therapy).The course of treatment lasts 5-8 sessions, depending on the stage of the disease.2-4 procedures are enough to eliminate acute pain.
Medicines for osteochondrosis of the chest are prescribed individually.Several types are used: steroid hormones, pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, non-steroidal drugs.To normalize the metabolism in the body, immunostimulants and drugs are used.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 into the chest area daily.
- Pour a tablespoon of mint or lemon balm into a cup of boiling water and let it soak for 10-15 minutes.Take the decoction at room temperature in several doses daily on an empty stomach.
- Mix a tablespoon of butter or lard with a tablespoon of crushed hop cones.The ointment helps with osteochondrosis, gout and rheumatism.
- Wild strawberry tea is suitable for treating osteochondrosis.Pour a tablespoon of crushed leaves, fruits and berries with a cup of boiling water.Leave for 10-15 minutes.Take 2-3 cups daily.
- 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 half a cup of the decoction 2-3 times a day.The course of treatment is individual until the pain disappears.
The effectiveness of traditional methods of treatment has been proven, but it should be used under the strict control of doctors and the presence of individual contraindications should be established.
Therapeutic gymnastics
Yoga for thoracic osteochondrosis is mandatory and is considered the second step on the road to recovery.Aimed at reducing muscle tension, restoring blood circulation and releasing compressed nerve roots.Exercises strengthen the muscular framework of the neck, lower back, chest and spine in general, correct posture and prevent relapses.Movements during yoga are smooth (sudden ones will worsen the condition), painless.Do the exercises regularly, otherwise they are ineffective.
On the Internet there are many recommendations and exercises for osteochondrosis of the chest.It is worth performing therapeutic yoga under the supervision of doctors, especially in the beginning.Otherwise, serious irreversible consequences are possible.
We must not forget the preventive measures:
- moderate salt intake;
- swimming, bath, sauna;
- physiotherapy procedures - magnetic therapy, laser therapy;
- moderate physical activity;
- massage;
- alternating static load with dynamic load.
Few suffer from chest pain (15% of patients with musculoskeletal disorders).It is rare because the spine in this part of the body is well fixed and inactive.Symptoms can hardly be confused with other types of osteochondrosis.The pathology can be cured, the main thing is not to delay the visit to the doctors.