Osteochondrosis is the main cause of back pain. The thoracic spine is less affected than other parts, initially less mobile. Due to the lack of characteristic symptoms, degenerative diseases are more difficult to diagnose. Improper treatment has serious consequences.
Grades and symptoms of osteochondrosis
Dystrophic lesions of bone and cartilage tissue are the most common chronic human diseases. The pathological process begins with the nucleus of the intervertebral disc and then spreads to the annulus fibrosus. Atrophic cartilage loses its damping properties and the load on the bone increases. The gap between the vertebrae narrows, protrusions and hernias appear, nerve endings are needed.
Symptoms of pathology:
- dorsalgia (back pain) aggravated by body movement, palpation, deep sighing and coughing;
- discomfort in the sternum on the left side, shortness of breath, a lot of feeling in the throat;
- excessive sweating;
- numbness of the skin and limbs;
- painful sensations in the xiphoid process, extending to the shoulder blades and arms;
- dorsago - acute pain in the chest when in a position for a long time.
Irritation of spinal receptors in the chest is manifested by impulses that mimic heart disease. This coronary artery pain is called anterior chest wall syndrome. The painful pain on the left side lasts for weeks, heart medications do not relieve it. However, the ECG shows no violations in the work of the organ.
The symptoms of the disease are often similar to other pathologies. Patients' complaints may indicate heart failure or gastrointestinal problems. Only a comprehensive examination will help you make the right diagnosis.
The clinical picture of the disease varies depending on the compression or non-compression forms of osteochondrosis. When the nerve endings are tightened (compressed), there is pain, numbness, muscle weakness and difficulty moving. The non-compression form manifests itself in acute or chronic pain syndrome in the damaged area of the spine, as well as reflex pain in the region of the heart, stomach, liver. The clinical signs of pathology vary depending on the stage of the disease and the age of the person.
Typical symptoms of osteochondrosis of the breast include pain in the mammary gland, fragile nails, and peeling of the skin. The disease is caused by pregnancy. During this time, the female body experiences increased stress on the spine and suffers from nutrient deficiencies.
In men, compression of the nerve roots in the lower part of the chest region leads to discomfort in the lumbar region, with pain in the kidneys.
Grades of osteochondrosis
Depending on the condition of the cartilage tissue, 4 stages of the disease are distinguished:
- 1 degree - cracks appear in the annulus fibrosus in the early stages of the disease. The nucleus pulposus protrudes through them. There are unpleasant sensations in the sternum, in the area of the heart. This stage is characterized by tensile pain and muscle cramps.
- 2 degrees - the situation is aggravated by the abnormal mobility of the vertebrae. A sign of this stage is increased pain when you move for a long time and are in a position. Vertebral subluxation is possible.
- Grade 3 - the structure of the spinal column is severely damaged, the fibrous ring is completely torn. Defeat of nerve endings leads to intercostal neuralgia. Man's mobility shows a limited, forced posture. The pain radiates to the internal organs, the abdomen, the limbs.
- 4 degrees - the structures surrounding the spine are involved in the pathological process. Overgrowth of scar tissue leads to fibrosis of the ligaments. A severe neurological reaction requires regular use of supportive medications.
Early diagnosis of the disease can slow the destruction of intervertebral discs. In the early stages, treatment is more effective. You should consult a neurologist for prolonged back pain and other symptoms of osteochondrosis.
Delayed hospital visit leads to dangerous complications. These include herniated plates, inflammation of nerve endings, proliferation of osteophytes, paresis. As bone formation increases, there is a high risk of damage to the tissues of the spinal canal. Triggered dystrophic processes mean complete destruction of the vertebrae. The patient can only be helped by surgery.
Causes and risk factors
The movable cervical and lumbar spine is most often affected by the disease. The chest region is reinforced with ribs, which reduces the risk of pathology but does not preclude its appearance. The disease can occur at any age. ICD 10 code is M42. 14 - osteochondrosis of the spine in adults localized in the chest region. There is a separate code for adolescent patients - M42. 0. Poor posture, kyphosis or scoliosis are provoking factors for the onset of the disease in young people.
The main causes of the disease
Degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs occur when there is insufficient nutrition. The nucleus pulposus loses its ability to distribute the load evenly and cracks appear in the annulus fibrosus. Doctors believe that pathology is a common cause of osteochondrosis genetic predisposition. Other factors:
- sedentary lifestyle and sedentary work;
- spinal cord injury;
- infectious diseases;
- increased physical activity;
- hormonal disorders;
- weak muscle ligament.
The exact cause of the onset of degenerative changes cannot be determined. The disease is recognizable by objective signs and symptoms. People who spend a lot of time in a sitting position have posture problems and spinal injuries, especially paying attention to their manifestations.
Provocative factors
The natural predisposition to cartilage dystrophy can only occur in the Middle Ages, when the body’s natural aging process begins. But there are factors that can trigger accelerated degeneration. These include:
- chronic stress;
- hypothermia;
- unbalanced diet;
- difficult working conditions;
- overweight.
Prolonged stinging and inflammation of the nerve roots causes disturbances in the work of the internal organs. Osteochondrosis is characterized by a wavy course, with periods of acute or dull pain replaced by remission.
Diagnostic methods
To make a diagnosis, you must collect the patient's history and perform a physical examination. A preliminary conclusion is made during the first investigation. The patient's spine is examined in different positions. Confirmation of pathology and information on the condition of the spine is provided by instrumental diagnostics. Experts use:
- Radiography. Images of the chest region show the extent of the pathology. Direct and lateral radiography help to determine changes in disc height, the appearance of osteophytes, compaction of vertebral body endplates, narrowing of the spinal canal diameter, and the formation of Schmorl nodes.
- Computed tomography is performed to detect and measure bone structures.
If necessary, magnetic resonance imaging is prescribed.
Treatment and prevention
Getting rid of pain, inflammation and other problems is only possible with complex treatment. The choice of technique depends on the condition of the patient. Conservative therapy is practiced in the initial phase, and in advanced cases, surgery will be required.
Medicines
Medication is prescribed to eliminate pain and prevent further destruction of intervertebral disc structures. The therapy is based on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. They are prescribed in the form of tablets and ointments.
Hormonal drugs - corticosteroids - are used to treat grade 3 osteochondrosis. They have a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect. Anesthetic injections are indicated in acute pain syndrome. Muscle relaxers relieve muscle cramps and tension. To restore cartilage tissue, experts advise the use of chondroprotectors.
The treatment of inflammation of the nerve roots is facilitated by the intake of special vitamin complexes containing B vitamins. Useful elements are well absorbed from food - eggs, herbs, beef and cheese. The patient is advised to rest and rest. In the first days you have to observe the rest of the bed.
Physiotherapy
The effect of the device has a pronounced therapeutic effect. Patients with osteochondrosis are prescribed:
- shock wave therapy;
- electrophoresis;
- ultrasonic exposure;
- magnetotherapy;
- laser therapy.
Physiotherapy increases blood flow and relaxes muscles. During electrophoresis, drugs penetrate deeper into the tissues of the body.
Folk remedies
It can be treated not only with drugs but also with folk remedies. A variety of herbs and foods can be used as herbs at home. They make decoctions, ointments, rubs from them. The devices make it possible to alleviate inflammation and speed up regeneration processes. A warm bath with sea salt and chamomile helps relieve pain. Effective recipes:
- Juniper and butter ointment - the crushed juniper is beaten smooth with butter. The composition is stored in a refrigerator.
- Ointment from pork heat and hop cones - dry suppositories are ground to a powder and mixed with fat. The ointment is applied 2-3 times a day.
- Honey compress - the composition requires 2 tablespoons of honey, 2 tablespoons of vodka, 1 tablespoon of aloe juice. The products are mixed and applied to the affected area.
- Mustard compaction - mix vodka, camphor alcohol and mustard powder in equal proportions. Add 3 proteins and incubate for 12 hours. The product is irritating and should be used with caution.
Before using the products, doctors advise to check them for an allergic reaction.
Massage
Part of the complex treatment of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is massage. The procedure reduces pain, increases blood circulation and stimulates muscles. Applicators can replace massage and acupuncture at home. These are special rugs with plastic needles.
Physiotherapy
When the period of exacerbation is over, it is recommended to switch to light physical activity. These include walking, swimming, yoga and physiotherapy. Performing a special set of exercises is the easiest way to cope with an illness and forget about back problems forever. During exercise, the focus is on stretching and strengthening the chest muscles. There is a special technique that helps to improve the health of the spine. Exercises are selected according to the individual characteristics of the patient.
Preventive recommendations
Doctors recommend, as a prevention of the disease, that you regularly perform a series of exercises designed to strengthen your back and chest muscles. In addition to the tournament, you must follow the following rules:
- Take a break while sitting. Change your posture often so that the load is divided into different muscle groups.
- Choose a comfortable orthopedic mattress for a good rest of your spine.
- Use chairs with high backs that support the spine.
- Balance your diet.
- Lifting and transporting weights must not be refused.
Timely medical visits allow for early detection of osteochondrosis. This gives a favorable prognosis for recovery.