Osteochondrosis is a disease that has a chronic course, accompanied by progressive degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs. Most often, such a pathological process affects the spine of the cervix or lumbar region. Gradually, it leads to the formation of an intervertebral hernia, followed by compression of the spinal cord, vessels passing nearby, and so on. In this article we will talk about the clinical signs and treatment of osteochondrosis of the intervertebral discs in the lumbar spine.
How is lumbar spine osteochondrosis manifested?
The main clinical sign of this pathological process is back pain.
The intensity and nature of the pain syndrome can vary in each case. Some patients show acute pain, aggravated by the slightest movement and forcing them to assume a forced position.
However, more often (more than 70% of patients) there is a dull pain syndrome. The pain is of moderate intensity and is present all the time. Although the patient should not take a forced position, he limits his physical activity. When the spine is affected, this is manifested by avoiding sharp turns, slow lowering, and standing.
In addition to the symptoms from the spine itself, extravertebral signs can also be noticed. In the event that compression of the spinal roots occurs, the person shows pain along the flow of peripheral nerves. A frequent manifestation of pathological changes in the lumbar spine region is lumboischialgia, which manifests as a sharp attack of pain localized in the lumbar and thigh region, which appears during physical exertion.
Principles of treatment
Osteochondrosis is a disease that requires complex treatment. First of all, during the period of deterioration, it is recommended to limit motor activity in the affected area. Here we mean bed rest.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics are prescribed to relieve pain. You can relieve muscle spasm with the help of muscle relaxants. In some cases, the treatment plan is supplemented with anticonvulsants. With spinal cord compression, local administration of glucocorticosteroids is possible.
In addition to drug therapy, patients with such a diagnosis are prescribed physiotherapy, therapeutic exercises, and massage.
Balneotherapy is recommended in the rehabilitation treatment phase. In 2017, scientists from a federal university published a paper, the results of which show the effectiveness of rehabilitative treatment of patients with spinal osteochondrosis using combined balneotherapy, which includes dry air baths and aerosol horn baths.
With severe spinal cord compression the issue of surgical intervention is decided.