Lumbar spine osteochondrosis - symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

Signs and symptoms of osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine

Lumbar osteochondrosis is a common disease of the muscle bone system.The lumbar spinal column is most prone to injuries due to good mobility.In addition, the accelerated wear of cartilage tissue occurs with inadequate and long -lasting sessions, with a low -lasting lifestyle, which eventually leads to osteochondrosis.

You need to know how to recognize the first signs in order to get trained medical care in time.

Short information about lumbosacral spine osteochondrosis

Back pain is one of the most common complaints in patients with a traumatologist.The second name of the syndrome is the dorsalgia of intervertebral plates.According to statistics, the inconveniences in the lumbar zone were calculated at least once out of 10 out of 10 of 8 out of 8 out of 8 out of 8 out of 8 out of 8 out of 8.About one -third of patients seen by the doctor, the pain syndrome acquires a permanent abnormal character, causing severe discomfort and painful condition in the patient.Long back pain can not only cause physical torture, but can also cause mental instability.

Because the cartilage tissue loses its strength and elasticity, it gradually becomes thinner and collapses.As a result, cracks occur in the fibrous rings of the intervertebral discs.Over time, under pressure, the fibrous ring stretches, protrudes and breaks out.If the fibrous ring content is a pulpic core, it goes out and shape the hernia.Therefore, osteochondrosis increases the chances of the appearance of such awesome complications.

Causes of the occurrence of the disease

In most cases, osteochondrosis is hereditary.It has been proven that if direct relatives suffer from degenerative diseases of the muscle system, their children will encounter the pathologies of the spine more often.

In other cases there are extrovertebral reasons:

  1. Maintaining inappropriate posture.
  2. Excessive muscle exhaust, which results in high physical effort during workplace or sports.
  3. Incorrect and frequent weight lifting.
  4. One of the most common reasons is hypodymia.Lack of movement and minimal physical activity often lead to problems with the spine such as sports.
  5. Previously transmitted inflammatory infections - tuberculosis or osteomyelitis - contribute to the degenerative processes of the spine.In this case, osteochondrosis will be infectious and complications.
  6. Hormonal perestroika can provoke a lumbosacral sacred osteochondrosis.This phenomenon is more often related to certain periods.A common example is the entry of menopause.After stopping monthly cycles, a woman decreases sexual steroid hormones, which makes calcium virtually eliminating the body's absorption.The reserves in the bones were washed intensely.As a result, if you do not place a woman in GZT, you will seek not only the lower back, but also the osteoporosis osteochondrosis.The risk of osteochondrosis increases with frequent use of synthetic glucocorticosteroids.The risk increases during puberty, with a lack of nutrition, exhaustive physical effort combined with the hard diet, and when old age occurs.
  7. The presence of congenital pathologies of the spine, including the anomaly of tropism.
  8. Flat legs and skoliosis.
  9. A weak structure of bones caused by the lack of nutrition or amenorrhea background in women.
  10. Early wear of vertebrate and joints.
  11. Premorbid hypermobility of the mobile spine, which significantly increases the risk of injury.
  12. Weak abdominal muscles.
  13. The presence of rare pathologies, including a narrow spinal canal, peridural fusion, spondylololist, oncology or spine tumor, neuromyositis.
  14. The presence of endocrine disorders - obesity and non -compensated hypothyroidism.
  15. Previously, the spine, the ligaments, the joints, the tendons suffered.
  16. Bad strength and frequent psycho -emotional stress.
  17. Changes related to degenerative age.

There are also certain risk groups that are related to harmful professional activities.Examples include builders, movers, computer scientists, waiters, teachers.In order to minimize the risk of such diseases, you should properly distribute the rear load and moderate active physical activity.

Symptoms of lumbar osteochondrosis

The disease has many symptoms, so the classification should be highlighted according to the type of pain:

  1. Ischemic syndromeIt is related to compression of arteries passing through the vertebrae.As a result of the occurrence, a long -term deterioration of blood circulation appears, causing nutrition in the lower limbs.It is possible to increase blood pressure.
  2. Vertebrate syndromeIt is associated with deformations in nerves and blood vessels.With longer negative effects, posture changes, the back of the back, and the atrophy of muscles without physical activity.As a result, the patient experiences severe pain.
  3. Static syndrome.In the vertebrae, pathological mobility develops, which can occur kyphosis or lordosis.During the development of pathology, the spine is gradually deformation, since in addition to the curvature of the vertebrae, there is inadequate muscle repair of the affected areas.The consequences of static syndrome are twisted at the back and a person is no longer able to compensate for it.
  4. Neurological syndromeThe nerve roots with tweezers.If pressure occurs on nerve endings, the patient's sensitivity decreases, and the appearance of weakness in the limbs may occur.In severe cases, the total loss of paralysis, chills and conductivity is due to the damage to the nerve fibers.

General symptoms of osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine are the following manifestations:

  1. Strong pains on the back of the back, including the entire lumbar region, which is possible into the sacrum.
  2. With the development of radicular syndrome, there are sharp pains that give the lower limbs bastard.The legs usually fix cramps.The fingers contain numbness and paraesthesia.Less often the pain gives his hand.
  3. I radiation of kidney pain is possible.The patient may complain about the problems of the urine system that are not confirmed during the diagnosis.
  4. The patient is tortured by a bad dream because of the discomfort of the lumbar region.
  5. The patient feels tension and fatigue in the lumbar region.
  6. When turning back and turning, stiffness and tension can be felt.
  7. The legs occur regularly in the back.
  8. After less physical activity, the patient feels severe fatigue.There is also chronic fatigue in everyday life.
  9. As the disease progresses, the patient has a rest in the lumbar region.
  10. The limbs often numb and the patient often has abnormal crunch.
  11. Violation of engine function due to inconvenience at the bottom of the back.
  12. Muscle cramps and cramps.
  13. Dizziness and headache.
  14. Reducing the sound of the back and lower limbs.

Any similar symptom requires an appeal to the doctor.There are also specific signals related to gender.Men have problems with the genitourinarinal sphere, which can negatively affect efficiency.Women have severe pain in the perineum and the pelvis, which also indicates that nerve endings are damaged.In advanced cases, prolapse of the internal organs, including the uterus and the appendices, occurs.The reason for this is the strong atrophic process of the muscles, which supports the spine.

Syndrome types and symptoms of osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine

Based on the type and nature of pain, such pathological conditions are distributed:

  1. Lumbago- This is characterized by an acute state.Typical signs are the inability to move in the background of the pain.This condition is more common against muscle atrophy, injuries, nerve roots and intervertebral discs.
  2. Lumbalgia- Pathology characterized by long and sore pain.Lumbalgia is more common in the background of osteochondrosis, hernia, spondylosis or protrusion.The syndrome is more frequent by stretching the league.
  3. Sciatica.This type of pain syndrome is characterized by the lumbosacral zone.Syndrome is often confused with the isias, which are characterized by firing pain caused by pinching nerve roots.Pain syndrome is more often linked to the sciatic nerve, which significantly exacerbates mobility in the lumbar region.The patient cannot be bent normally as the mobility of the lumbar region is deteriorated.It is also difficult to walk and sit normally.The pinching of the sciatic nerve leads to another unpleasant deterioration - the pear -shaped muscle cramp.As a result, a person has shots from behind to the calf muscles passing through the thigh.Walking becomes lame, the socks of the legs turn to the side, and they feel pain in the bottom when they walk, run and sit.A comprehensive approach is needed in treatment.
  4. Discogenous changesrelated to the progression of dorsopathy.The first sign of such deterioration is the loss of sensitivity and numbness in the lower limbs.The back, buttocks, hips and lower abdomen suffer.All these zones are permeated by constant inconvenience.In case of severe deterioration, signs of the inflammatory process occur - rise in body temperature, weakness occurs in the body, and urinary incontinence appears.The patient also exacerbates the appetite, which leads to a decrease in body weight.In this situation, an integrated approach is needed to handle the condition.
  5. RadiculopathyThis is also related to restricting the motor skills of the spine and the tightening of nerve endings.As a result of this type of pain syndrome, the patient feels pain in the lower body, a decrease or violation of motor reflexes.Deterioration of joint mobility and a decrease in muscle tone against the compression background due to radiculitis.

Each of the above pain syndromes requires urgent treatment, starting with the initial stages of manifestations.In fact, over time, pathology has worsened, which causes the disease process to deteriorate significantly.

Lumbar spine osteochondrosis - development stages

The general classification of the disease includes this degree of lumbar osteochondrosis:

  1. The first degree does not cause physiological deterioration from the spine.The patient feels good and does not suspect that the spine has problems.In the initial stages, active destructive processes occur.The pulpoose core changes its position, gradually leaking on the microcractions of the fibrous ring.At the beginning of the article, it was mentioned that before the disease occurred, the patient violates metabolism, which causes the porch to weaken and cover it with micro -rockers.As a result, irritation of nerve endings appears over time, which makes the patient feel the first signs of discomfort in the lumbar region.
  2. The second phase osteochondrosis is characterized by signs of instability of the lumbar region.The vertebrae contains dynamic displacements relative to the upper and the underlying stages.The patient has signs of compression syndrome and reflex disorders.
  3. In the patient, the deterioration of the outward outward outward outward of the fibrous ring content is already occurring.Appears, prolaps or hernia appears.In the case of phase 3 of the pathology, the spinal canal and the roots of the blood vessels are stuck.At this stage, severe pains in lace and inflammation are already occurring.Strong mobility is also limited, with shelters in the lower limbs.
  4. The terminal stage is the fourth.At this stage, there are already irreparable pathophysiological changes.The patient has pathologies of the bone system that are related to the growth of bone-cherry spinal bodies.As a result, the response compensation reactions arise - the load is transmitted to other weaker vertebrates.Inventory, limiting mobility in the spine amplitude.Increase in pathological bones press the vascular channel and nerve endings, which are heavily burdened with the symptomatic course of pathology.

Lumbar osteochondrosis - diagnosis

When the patient arrives at a doctor, he or she prescribes a number of laboratory tests based on assembled history to identify osteochondrosis of the lumbar sacrum of the spine:

  1. X -Ray.This is a basic analysis that allows the general evaluation of the state of the spine.The X -Ray does not show small and initial abnormal changes, but identifies serious bone tissue violation.If the image shows signs of deletion of vertebrates or darkness that do not correspond to normal size, other tests are required.
  2. Computer tomography.This is a more advanced version of the X -Ray image, which allows you to view the slightest negative changes in the bone tissue at the site of destruction, as the images are taken on three dimensional images.
  3. Magnetic resonance tomography.This type of diagnosis is close to CT but allows you to make a better consideration of soft tissues.The MRI distinguishes the deterioration of osteochondrosis, including hernia and protrusion.This type of diagnosis is sufficient to accurately prepare a diagnosis of degenerative destruction of the bone tissue.
  4. Performing laboratory testsBased on biological substances.Patients often transfer general blood and urine tests to control basic indicators.These data allow you to superficially assess the patient's health.
  5. Delivery of rheumatological patterns.It should be analyzed to eliminate the rheumatoid nature of the pathology.

After checking and performing the necessary tests, a definitive diagnosis is made.

Treatment of lumbar osteochondrosis

An integrated approach is needed in the treatment of pathology.Conservative treatment with medicines and physiotherapy is used in 1-2 stages during the healing period.In the presence of 3 or 4 sections, if the patient has serious indicators of health deterioration, surgical intervention is required.

Drug treatment of the pathological procedure

In the case of damage to the intervertebral discs, which have arisen in the background of osteochondrosis of the lumbosacral class, the use of an extensive list of drugs appears.Some products are used for symptomatic therapy, others to maintain health.

What drugs prescribe:

  1. Non -steroid anti -inflammatory drugs, analgesics.These drugs greatly facilitate the patient's condition, especially during the acute period.Thanks to the outstanding effects of this type of drugs, we can calm the pain quickly within 1-2 days.Patients are usually prescribed by selective type NSAIDs because they are less damaging the gastric mucosa membrane.If indifferent old NSAIDs cannot be used for more than 5 days, new generational drugs can be drunk for 2-3 weeks without fear of the consequences of a healthy gastrointestinal tract.In the presence of gastritis or ulcer, it is better to be safe and use gastroprotectors, proton pump inhibitors.
  2. Musorelaxants- Medicines to eliminate painful muscle cramps.In the case of osteochondrosis, the incorrect distribution of muscle linen associated with the weakness of the spine.As a result, some muscles are tightened while others are in hypotone.Muscle relaxation is prescribed to relieve painful cramps.The duration of treatment and the system for taking tablets are selected by the attending physician.
  3. Neurotropic vitamins.Such tools include biamine vitamins, thiamine, cyanocobalamine and pyridoxine.In large doses, a combination of B1, B6 and B12 has an analgesic effect.The ingredients positively affect the nerve endings by nourishing them.These vitamins are also involved in the construction of myeline shells that cover nerves.Such drugs are primarily prescribed for radicular syndrome when it is necessary to relieve pain in nerve lace.Injector agents are used for 2-3 weeks and then switch to oral forms of liberation.
  4. Chondroprotectors.These drugs have protective properties relative to the cartilage.If there are clear signs of cartilage degeneration, chondroprotectors must be written with a long course.First, injectors are used for 2-3 months and then switch to tablets.The minimum use is six months with a break of several months.Current components of the composition are chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride.Reception and dosing systems are selected separately.
  5. Calcium in combination with vitamin D3.These ingredients are used to strengthen bone tissue.Due to age, bone wear, malnutrition and hormonal deficiency, bones are fragile.The main building material is calcium.Without it, it is impossible to get a strong bone corset.Vitamin D3 should be taken in order to absorb calcium preparations.To avoid the lack of cholecalciferol, you should regularly visit the day in summer and winter to take additional vitamins.
  6. Complex poly vitamins.There are research data that, in the natural or synthetic form of constant vitamins, strengthens immunity in physiological doses during seasonal aggravations of SAR, and acute respiratory infections.People with lumbosacral spine disease should be carefully monitored.
  7. With blockade anesthesiaNSAIDs are done with poorly cut pain syndrome.Intraarticular injections of corticosteroids related to blockades are also effective.Such tools help to soothe inflammation, which accelerates healing during the acute period.The power of the blockade must be performed by a highly trained doctor whose use has a great deal of experience.We recommend that you make a blockade under the control of ultrasound so that you do not get into other parts of the spine.Such treatment methods promote the rapid release of chronic pain.
  8. Special ointments and gels.With local funds, you can also successfully fight the chronic pain syndrome of moderate and weak energy.Different products are cooled or warmed up, which usually allows for regular use of external drugs.The use of medicines on the skin surface allows you to use them for a long time.Such drugs are practically not absorbed into the systemic bloodstream, so they do not cause side effects.It is important to pay attention to the skin condition after applying the medicine.If you have a rash or itching, you need to tell the medicine.

Homeopathy or antispasmodics can also be prescribed.The diagram of medication is determined by the physician on an individual basis.

Conservative Non -drog Treatment Methods

During the healing period, physiotherapeutic procedures should be used that promote the improvement of blood circulation and normalize the normalization of metabolic processes in the affected tissues.Active recovery methods are used solely after stopping acute pain.Support for conservative treatment softens the chronic course of the disease, which prevents aggravation attacks.

Methods of active rehabilitation are as follows:

  1. Performing physiotherapy physical education.Lumbar osteochondrosis develops special exercises that improve the bloodstream that supports posture and muscles.LFK must first be implemented under the supervision of a instructor, including security rules.The exercises are carried out in a standing position, in seat or lying, depending on the complex designated by the specialist.If the patient is experienced, you can do gymnastics at home.Do not ignore the useful part of the lesson - gay -up and Hitch.After a good heat, the muscles protected from tears and jerks.The final stage of implementation accelerates muscle recovery processes.With regular exercises, the muscles become severe, causing the back pain to weaken.
  2. Massage- One way to relax in tense muscle tissue in contact conditions.With the help of the hands, a specialist improves the blood flow of the muscles, which allows you to remove severe surge.Massages combined with muscle relaxant are the most effective.These drugs eliminate cramps and spasticity.Further stimulation with hands enhances the effect of the drug.We recommend that you visit the masseur courses several times a year to make a constant effect.
  3. Hand therapy.Using this method of exposure, the muscles can be expanded and does not take into account the degree of resistance.Unlike massage, this method is violent, though effective.In the case of neglected lumbar osteochondrosis, the use of manual treatment exercises is dangerous if the specialist is not experienced enough.Before you contact a manual therapist, you need to get to know the list of contraindications, including high blood pressure, heart disease and hernia presence in the lumbar region.
  4. Physiotherapy procedures.Physiotherapy can improve local blood flow in the affected area without affecting other zones.The essence of physiotherapy is simple: combining hardware treatment methods and medicines.Examples of electrophoresis.A certain frequency laser causes the drugs to be administered through the skin.Often use Group B injection vitamins.The device allows you to enter the skin into the medicines without having a systematic effect on the body.Magnetic therapy and shock wave therapy are also related to physiotherapy methods.Radiated frequencies accelerate regeneration processes in the joints and ligaments without causing side effects.

As part of complex treatment, acupuncture, hirudotherapy or homeopathy can be prescribed.

When surgical intervention is performed

Operations are needed in advanced cases where the patient is tortured by severe neurological syndromes that arise in the background of lumbar osteochondrosis.If the patient has a complication in the form of hernia, the limbs began to be taken away and the sensitivity of the intestine or bladder is disturbed and hospitalized urgently.In this case, the operation is performed according to life indicators.

There are also relative indications for surgery.An example of this is the frequent numbness of the limbs, the constant discomfort of the back, which cannot be used for conservative treatment, to lose partial sensitivity of the fingers.In this case, you can decide on surgery on your own.

Lumbar osteochondrosis is a serious pathology that requires an integrated approach to therapy.In the initial stages, drugs and physiotherapy are prescribed.If the disease goes fast, surgery may be required.