Chest osteochondrosis is a serious condition that few people face.This is a degenerative change in the intervertebral disc.The danger of this pathology is that, without timely and effective treatment, it can lead to irreversible damage to internal organs and deformation of the chest.Chest osteochondrosis and its symptoms can occur in everyone, since sedentary lifestyle and its consequences are a problem in modern society.
disease cause
The causes of thoracic osteochondrosis are diverse and depend on many factors.The main thing is metabolic disorder of the intervertebral disc, improper distribution of load on it, the development of dystrophic pathology - scoliosis, another type of spinal curvature.
One in two patients seeking help for a diagnosis of thoracic osteochondrosis is forced to remain stationary for long periods of time at work (in the office or while driving).
Lifestyle contributes to the development of pathology:
- Malnutrition and lack of regular diet;
- Damage the normal function of the liver;
- Sedentary work;
- overweight;
- Sedentary lifestyle, excessive physical activity.
Prevention of thoracic osteochondrosis is simple.The disease was difficult for her to overcome.You should see your doctor at the slightest sign of illness.
symptom
The symptoms of thoracic osteochondrosis are obvious and difficult to ignore.They resemble other diseases, which is why this disease is medically called chameleon.Main symptoms:
- A crawling sensation all over the body, especially in the chest;
- Male sexual dysfunction - impotence;
- numbness;
- genetics;
- Cardiovascular system dysfunction;
- Arm weakness;
- Decreased chest mobility;
- Chest pain that becomes worse with active movement (sometimes while breathing).Has a distressing, restraining character.
In rare cases, toothache may occur.
This type of osteochondrosis is often confused with other diseases due to stomach pain, cardio-myocardial infarction, peptic ulcers of the gastrointestinal tract.
As a symptom of osteochondrosis, doctors classify pain into two categories.Some experts distinguish 3 types:
- Dosago.The pain is sharp, severe, and comes on suddenly.Difficulty breathing may occur.Spinal syndrome occurs in people who sit or bend over a surface for long periods of time.Movement of the thoracic and lumbar spine is restricted.With osteochondrosis, patients compare pain in the sternum to a stake in the chest.
- Back pain.The pain is mild.It usually begins gradually and lasts for several weeks.Mobility may be limited.The pain is worse with sudden movements and at night.
- Chest pain or intercostal neuralgia.Pain occurs in the rib area and radiates to the shoulder and shoulder blade.
Symptoms can be exacerbated by excessive stress, overwork, or sudden and severe physical exertion.
Thoracic osteochondrosis and cough are mutually exclusive.Pneumonia can cause lung symptoms, causing chest pain.Possible fever.
The main difference between the two diseases is that pain during pneumonia has no clear localization.
To diagnose this disease, a comprehensive examination is required, including radiography and computed tomography.
drug treatment
In most cases, they will treat it conservatively, depending on the pain level of osteochondrosis in the chest.Initially, pain and inflammation will decrease.Then, consolidate the results achieved with the help of yoga and vitamin complexes.Many patients are afraid to seek help from their doctors; they mistakenly believe that osteochondrosis can only be cured through surgery.
Various therapies available (massage, physiotherapy, acupuncture, moxibustion).Treatment lasts for 5-8 sessions, depending on the stage of the disease.To eliminate acute pain, 2-4 surgeries are enough.
Medications to treat osteochondrosis of the chest are prescribed separately.Several types of drugs are used: steroid hormones, analgesics, anti-inflammatory drugs, non-steroidal drugs.Immune boosters and medications are used to normalize metabolism in the body.Doctors rarely prescribe sedative medications when anxiety occurs.
During treatment, it is important to avoid spinal injuries and bruising.
Treated with traditional methods
Treating osteochondrosis of the chest with traditional methods is another option.Therapists offer methods:
- Mix flaxseed oil and horseradish juice in equal proportions.Rub the mixture onto the chest area daily.
- Add a tablespoon of peppermint or lemon balm to a cup of boiling water and let soak for 10-15 minutes.The decoction should be taken several times a day on an empty stomach at room temperature.
- Mix a tablespoon of butter or lard with a tablespoon of pre-ground hops.This ointment helps in the treatment of osteochondrosis, gout and rheumatism.
- Wild strawberry tea is suitable for treating osteochondrosis.Add a tablespoon of chopped leaves, fruits and berries to a cup of boiling water.Leave on 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 cook for 5-10 minutes).Take half a cup of decoction every day, divided into 2-3 times.The treatment process varies from person to person until the pain subsides.
Traditional treatments have proven effectiveness, but should be used under strict medical supervision and ascertained if there are individual contraindications.
therapeutic gymnastics
Yoga for osteochondrosis of the chest is mandatory and is considered the second step on the road to recovery.Designed to reduce muscle tension, restore blood circulation, and relax compressed nerve roots.Exercises can strengthen the overall muscular framework of the neck, lower back, chest, and spine, correct posture, and prevent relapse.Movements during yoga are smooth (sudden movements can worsen the condition) and painless.Do the exercises regularly, otherwise there will be no effect.
There is a lot of advice and exercises for thoracic osteochondrosis on the internet.It's worth doing therapeutic yoga under a doctor's supervision, especially in the beginning.Otherwise, serious and irreversible consequences may result.
We should not forget preventive measures:
- Moderate salt intake;
- Swimming, bathhouse, sauna;
- Physical therapy procedures – magnet therapy, laser therapy;
- moderate physical activity;
- massage;
- Static load and dynamic load alternate.
Few people suffer from chest pain (15% of patients have a musculoskeletal system disorder).This condition is rare because the spine in this part of the body is well immobilized and immobile.These symptoms are difficult to confuse with other types of osteochondrosis.The pathology can be cured, the most important thing is not to delay medical treatment.