Thoracic spine osteochondrosis is much less common than problems in other departments. However, the rarity of this disease can not underestimate its risks. The fact is that the thoracic region is less mobile than, for example, the cervical region. Also, its structure is special: there are many more beads than in other departments, and the disks themselves are thinner and smaller. Why does osteochondrosis of the chest region appear and how to treat it?
What is osteochondrosis?
The term osteochondrosis refers to the condition of the articular cartilage as well as the surrounding bone tissue. Due to this disease of the spine, the intervertebral discs become thinner and lose their elasticity. The body of the discs, if left untreated, is occasionally destroyed and the joints and ligaments lose strength. Although osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine does not appear immediately, the patient still needs medical help.
Causes of the disease
The causes of thoracic spine osteochondrosis are the same as in diseases of other departments. First of all it is:
- the wrong way of life;
- overweight;
- sedentary lifestyle;
- bad habits;
- diabetes;
- hormonal disruptions;
- rachiocampsis;
- the presence of osteochondrosis in any other department.
If several factors occur, then the risk of developing osteochondrosis increases significantly. A special risk of getting sick is also in those whose work is associated with staying in the same position for a long time. Therefore, it can not be said that osteochondrosis affects only the elderly, or only overweight people. In recent years there has even been a significant renewal of this disease.
Symptoms of the disease
To be able to seek medical help in a timely manner, it is important to be able to recognize the first signs of illness:
- persistent back pain;
- generational pain in the chest area with inspiration;
- pain in the heart that does not stop after taking cardiac medications;
- numbness in the chest area;
- pain when trying to raise your hand;
- itching, burning sensation or coldness in the lower extremities;
- disorders of the digestive system;
- loss of sensation in the limbs;
- violation of power in men.
Of course, there is a risk of confusing osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine with other diseases. For example, you may think you have problems with your heart, stomach or nervous system. Therefore, to establish an accurate diagnosis, as well as to prescribe further treatment of the spine, it is important to seek medical help.
Disease treatment methods
With osteochondrosis, doctors use several treatment methods. For example, most often the first step in admitting a patient to the hospital is drug therapy. If necessary, he is prescribed pain medication. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can also be used to relieve swelling or inflammation.
When first aid is given, chondroprotectors may be used, the effect of which is not immediately noticeable, but is very effective with prolonged use. An important role is played by the use of vitamins and minerals necessary for the normal functioning of human cartilage tissue.
In addition to prescribing medication, your doctor may recommend exercises for chest osteochondrosis. As practice shows, this method has its positive dynamics in the treatment of such diseases. Exercises for osteochondrosis of the chest region help strengthen the muscles of the spine, as well as relieve pain.
Just as exercise is effective for osteochondrosis of the chest, massage plays an important role in treatment. This method allows you to relax the tense muscles of the spine, which means releasing tight nerve endings. The massage should be performed by a specialist and the course of treatment with this method should be at least two weeks.
Also, an excellent result in the treatment of osteochondrosis can be achieved if water procedures are used. Swimming, hydromassage (underwater massage), baths have a good effect on the health of the spine.
In recent years, acupuncture has become increasingly popular. This technique allows you to relieve tension in the nerve endings as well as relieve pain quickly.
How can you help yourself at home?
It happens that the problem is obvious and there are serious contraindications to medical treatment. How can you help yourself in this case?
First of all, it is important to give up any bad habits and take care of your spine health. It is impossible to completely cure osteochondrosis even in a hospital setting. It is important to keep it in good working condition for as long as possible.
To help yourself in the fight against this disease, it is important to follow a few simple rules:
- during the day, regularly change the position of the spine;
- several times a day try to lie down for 30-40 minutes;
- engage in outdoor activities, such as swimming more;
- apply a set of exercises to treat the back.
If it becomes clear that your spine condition is only getting worse, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Specialists will perform all the necessary set of laboratory tests, for example, they will do a radiograph or MRI, take blood for biochemical tests and make the correct diagnosis. In this case, you can be sure that the treatment is chosen correctly and that it will bring quick relief.