Treatment of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine


Osteochondrosis is wear and tear of the intervertebral discs, which leads to degenerative organic changes in the spine. Osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is considered the rarest because this section is the least mobile due to its ligament with the ribs. But it is this that occurs most insidiously and severely, and develops earlier than other types. Treatment of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is characterized by an integrated approach and leads to good results. With a competent approach to therapy, a person can regain mobility, lightness and life without pain.

Causes

The main factors causing the development of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine include:

  • Kyphosis and scoliosis. These diseases often accompany a person from birth, as an anatomical anomaly. If kyphosis is smoothed out, then a person may not know about its existence for half his life. Scoliosis is a curvature of the spine that leads to impaired distribution of muscle load. As a result, on the one hand, the muscles will be atrophied and relaxed, and on the other, they will be spasmed due to constant tension.
  • Injuries. They can be obvious when a person injures the vertebrae in a fall, accident or other similar circumstances. The injuries may not be noticeable. For example, spinal injuries are common due to overuse in the gym and heavy lifting.
  • Flat feet. Some doctors argue that this is almost the main reason for the development of degenerative changes in any part of the spine. Flat feet disrupt the balancing of the muscular corset; improper redistribution of the load leads to impaired depreciation of the vertebrae.
  • Statically incorrect body position for a long time. As a result of muscle overstrain, blood circulation and nutrition of muscle tissue deteriorate. Namely, they hold the spine. This is the cause not only of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine, but also of the cervical and lumbar spine.
  • Excess weight and lack of sufficient physical activity.
  • Stress. Stress itself is not as dangerous as the reaction to it. During stress, the adrenal glands produce excessive amounts of adrenaline, which is transformed into norepinephrine. It promotes thickening of the walls of blood vessels and the progression of atherosclerosis. In stressful conditions, blood vessels narrow, which leads to poor oxygen supply to muscle tissue.
  • Alcohol consumption, smoking, use of other drugs and poor diet. Alcohol leaches calcium from bone tissue. Tobacco and other drugs lead to improper functioning of blood vessels. Serious errors in nutrition lead to obesity, lack of B vitamins and minerals.
  • Improper wearing of bags and shoes.
  • Gastrointestinal diseases that affect the quality of nutrient absorption.
  • Violation of water and electrolyte balance over a long period of time.
  • Pregnancy. Thoracic osteochondrosis often occurs in women who are pregnant with twins or triplets.
  • Metabolic syndrome.
  • Autoimmune diseases, infections, intoxications.
  • Genetic predisposition associated with a genetic mutation. You should not think that genetic predisposition is necessarily associated with the fact that one of your close relatives suffered from osteochondrosis. Often, this has nothing to do with genetics. Genetic predisposition is always a mutation of certain genes. But even so, the disease will develop only in combination with other factors.

The disease can occur both in adulthood and in youth. Every year the disease gets younger. Therefore, it is important to recognize the problem as early as possible by paying attention to the symptoms.

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Prevention of thoracic osteochondrosis

To prevent the development of osteochondrosis of the thoracic, cervical and lumbar spine, you should adhere to the following recommendations:

  • prevent overwork and exhaustion of the body;
  • avoid hypothermia;
  • Avoid heavy lifting and try to avoid excessive physical activity;
  • watch your posture;
  • try to maintain a comfortable posture;
  • give preference to resting on a comfortable bed with an anatomical mattress;
  • adhere to the principles of proper nutrition;
  • Combine sitting with periodic rest and exercise.

Symptoms of thoracic osteochondrosis appear at the stage when it can still be stopped and excellent health restored through the use of fairly gentle measures that require minimal effort.

Symptoms

Degenerative changes in the thoracic spine cause great concern to a person. The chest area contains the heart, lungs, internal organs of the abdominal cavity, ribs, and in women the mammary glands. Symptoms in this location may be similar to an attack of angina, heart attack, or pain in the stomach, mammary glands, or any other neighboring organ. Therefore, when osteochondrosis makes itself felt, it is often mistaken for other dangerous pathologies.

Symptoms and treatment of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine are interrelated due to two types of clinical picture.

Osteochondrosis of the lumbar region

This is the most common type of osteochondrosis of the spinal column, since it is the lumbosacral region that usually bears the highest load when walking, running, jumping and other active movements. The leading symptom of this pathology is pain in the lumbar region, which spreads along the sciatic nerve into the buttock and down the back of the leg.

This pain is most often dull and aching in nature and is difficult to treat with analgesic drugs. The intensity of unpleasant sensations with lumbar osteochondrosis increases with sudden movements or long-term immobility. Sometimes there is also muscle weakness in the leg, muscle atrophy and skin sensitivity disorders. The lumbar curve of the spine may flatten, limiting freedom of movement.

Reflex signs

Symptoms:

  • respiratory disorders such as a feeling of lack of air, pain during inhalation and exhalation, difficulty breathing;
  • feeling of chills, “goosebumps”;
  • feeling of disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract: nausea, loss of appetite, heartburn, diarrhea or constipation, bloating;
  • intercostal neuralgia;
  • pain in the chest of a girdling nature, between the shoulder blades, during bending and straightening;
  • insomnia, feeling tired with enough sleep, fatigue;
  • stiffness of movement in the morning;
  • worsening gait;
  • irritability;
  • decreased libido/potency.

Reflex symptoms are more vague than radicular ones and are often misunderstood by doctors. Therefore, it is very important to find a competent doctor who will take the patient’s complaints seriously and prescribe the correct treatment for thoracic osteochondrosis, especially during an exacerbation.

Diagnostics

The gold standard for diagnosing thoracic osteochondrosis is an MRI of the thoracic spine and examination by a neurologist.

MRI shows exactly the anatomical structure, changes, compression, blood flow, and a visual picture of the effect on the spinal cord. Also, the study demonstrates possible complications of the disease such as protrusions, osteophytes, hernias and their effect on blood flow.

As before, an examination by a competent doctor plays an important role in making a diagnosis.

Diagnosis of osteochondrosis

A surgeon, an orthopedist or a neurologist can make a diagnosis. Due to the fact that pain in the lumbar region often becomes a reason for contacting a neurologist, such patients are first examined by a doctor of this particular specialty. First, the patient is examined. To diagnose, he needs to assess the patient’s ability to twist the body, bend, sit, walk, and bend the legs. After which the spinal column is palpated. Thanks to manual examination, the doctor will be able to identify pain points and feel compactions and even hernias between the vertebrae.

To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor prescribes an x-ray of the spine. This is the simplest test that can be carried out even in a rural clinic. X-rays have long been available in medical practice and are an integral element of every trauma department. If the x-ray does not confirm the diagnosis, or when a more detailed study is required, a CT scan or MRI of the spine is prescribed. With the help of such an examination, it will be possible to find out the quality of the discs, assess their elasticity and integrity, and also identify hidden pathologies.

Treatment

Many have heard that it is impossible to completely get rid of osteochondrosis, but you can only slow down its development. This is a half-truth. You can get rid of hernias, osteophytes, and other complications of the disease. You can regain your life without pain and ease of movement and restore your intervertebral discs. There is a great chance to stop the destruction process, returning the spine to its previous state as much as possible. Some people managed to completely get rid of the pathology, while others did not. Everything is individual and depends on the state of health, readiness to overcome difficulties, and patience.

You must be prepared for the fact that treatment for osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine will take a long time. On average, active participation will require 1-3 months. But even then, life will no longer be the same due to the need for regular and proper physical activity for at least a year.

In this case, finances and time are not an excuse for refusing treatment, since you can fight the disease both in a hospital or sanatorium and at home. The most convenient option is in a sanatorium. There, the patient is supported by a group of people with the same problems, but the conditions are positive and homely. The medical staff is always tactful and caring. There you can relax and receive treatment without a hospital atmosphere, but with all the necessary medical services.

Therapy consists of several stages:

  1. getting rid of pain (wearing a special corset, taking painkillers, undergoing procedures);
  2. restoration of damaged spinal discs and preventive measures against the progression of the disease (physiotherapy, gymnastics, proper nutrition, help from a psychologist).

Drug treatment is also used, but it is considered as a last resort when other methods do not help. In the most severe cases and with dangerous hernias, surgery is prescribed.

The most important rule is no self-medication or self-diagnosis. Mistakes can be very costly.

Treatment at home

If you don’t have time or don’t have enough financial resources for treatment in a clinic or sanatorium, you can achieve impressive results in getting rid of osteochondrosis at home. The recommendations below will help you cope with the disease.

Nutrition

It is necessary to introduce into the diet foods that help accelerate metabolism in case of excess weight and the regeneration of cartilage tissue. It is important that the food you eat is rich in nutrients, microelements, antioxidants, polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins and is easily digestible.

You need to eat 4-5 times a day every 2.5-3 hours, preferably at the same time. Portions should be no more than 300 g, so as not to overload the stomach and liver. Three meals should contain 26-30 g of protein. Protein is essential for building muscle tissue. Thus, metabolism will speed up, the body will stop accumulating fat, and the cells will receive constant nutrition.

The first breakfast and dinner should be predominantly protein. For example, egg white and cucumber. The main principle of the first and last meals is the absence of insulin spikes, which is achieved by eliminating carbohydrates. Cucumber, although a carbohydrate, has a low glycemic index. Protein without a small amount of fat and carbohydrates is not digestible.

Recommended Products:

  • legumes as a protein substitute for meat (beans, including green beans, lentils, peas);
  • vegetables in large quantities (with the exception of starchy ones, which should be consumed with caution);
  • jelly and jelly (contain natural collagen, necessary for joints);
  • chicken wings (the bones must be gnawed, it is their contents that are most valuable);
  • poultry, red meat in limited quantities;
  • salmon fish, caviar and milt;
  • squid, seaweed (no more than 100 g at a time);
  • olive oil, camelina oil, flaxseed oil (if there are no liver problems), sesame oil; adults should avoid sunflower oil;
  • fruits in limited quantities with low sugar content

It is advisable to boil, steam, stew or eat all dishes fresh.

The drinking regime is mandatory, since the required amount of water provides relief from dehydration, cellular nutrition and promotes weight loss. The daily water intake is calculated using a simple formula: 30 x weight. Tea, coffee, herbal infusions, juices, and fruit drinks are not considered water.

Physical exercise

Physical exercise is an integral part of the treatment of osteochondrosis of any part of the spine. The following techniques may be included:

  • Gymnastics developed by Russian scientist Yuri Gushcho. It includes elements of dynamic and static yoga. He also advises carrying out hardening procedures. If you are interested, you can read his book “12 Keys to the Longevity Safe,” in which he talks about what to do to live as long as possible while being active. It makes sense to trust him, because Yuri independently lifted himself out of a wheelchair and recovered from coxarthrosis. He has many awards, gratitude from the President of the Russian Federation.
  • Gymnastics using the technologies of Dr. Bubnovsky. His technique is quite effective and can be done at home. A set of exercises can be found on the Internet in video format, and books with full instructions are also available.
  • Pool. Swimming not only helps you lose weight, but also strengthens your heart, lungs and develops your back muscles.
  • Isometric gymnastics. This type of exercise was first developed for astronauts returning home. Exercises allow, without damaging the joints, to restore weakened muscles, restore flexibility and ease of movement. Gymnastics is indicated for many pathologies of the musculoskeletal system, including osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine.
  • Walks in the open air. It is advisable to spend an hour every day for intense walks, preferably in park areas or along the coast. The goal is to improve cerebral circulation, muscle nutrition, and mood.
  • Exercises to correct posture.

Complete rest

It is imperative to develop the habit of going to bed and waking up at the same time. Ideally, go to bed at 21 o'clock and wake up at 5-6 am. During this time, the brain manages to restore the functioning of the internal systems of the body, the psyche and process all the information that it received the day before. This is especially important for spinal health.

To sleep, you need to choose the right mattress and pillow. It is better to forget about too soft or hard options.

Treatment in a hospital or sanatorium

Manual therapy

This is an effect on the patient’s body with the help of hands in order to restore metabolism and give the spine the correct shape. The procedure consists of manipulations to restore joint function, relaxing massage to relieve pain and muscle tension, mobilization to improve blood circulation and relaxation.

The duration of treatment is about 3 months.

Massage

In the treatment of degenerative changes in the thoracic spine, both classical therapeutic and acupressure types of massage are used. The massage therapist works with the muscle fibers of the upper back and shoulders in order to influence the thoracic region.

Mineral baths

During the procedure, the hemodynamics of the body changes. This means that blood is directed from the center to the periphery and from there to the heart, which drives it through all organs and tissues. Thus, the following effects are achieved:

  • blood circulation improves;
  • the nervous system is strengthened;
  • The respiratory system and kidneys work better;
  • the adaptive properties of the body increase;
  • reduction of inflammation;
  • relief from pain;
  • removal of toxins;
  • skin sensitivity increases.

The chemical composition of water affects the effect of a mineral bath on the body of a patient suffering from osteochondrosis. Water temperature affects muscle relaxation and metabolic processes.

Acupuncture


Also, this procedure is called acupuncture or acupuncture. Its essence lies in influencing biological points of the human body with the help of needles. Long and short sterile needles are inserted to a depth of up to 15 mm and left for half an hour.

This seemingly simple procedure has proven itself all over the world. Reviews from patients indicate the following effects after completing a course of acupuncture procedures:

  • relaxation;
  • cessation of tinnitus and dizziness;
  • increasing energy potential;
  • improved blood flow;
  • improvement of thought processes;
  • getting rid of headaches;
  • relieving muscle spasms.

Laser therapy

The advantage of laser therapy is improving the penetration of drugs and normalizing the adaptive properties of the body. During the procedure, laser beams of a certain range are exposed to the areas of the spine that need treatment. The result of exposure is an anti-inflammatory effect, normalization of metabolism in the affected area, improvement of general well-being, the process of tissue regeneration starts, and the process of degeneration stops.

As a result of completing a full course of procedures as part of complex therapy, the degenerative process can be completely reversed.

Mud therapy

This procedure is beneficial not only for the spine, but also for the entire body. The only thing is that it cannot be used in the acute phase of osteochondrosis.

The effects of mud therapy include improving the trophism of formations in the intervertebral joints, vascular function, adaptation and recovery processes. Also, the functioning of the nervous system is normalized, pain disappears.

Working with a psychologist

Since with osteochondrosis a person experiences constant stress, anxiety states often develop. A psychologist not only helps to get rid of them, but also stimulates in moments of despair and fatigue. A positive attitude plays an important role in treatment.

Exercise therapy

The treatment procedure is carried out in groups of several people and includes exercises taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient and his medical history. The emphasis is on improving joint function and strengthening the muscle corset. Without exercise, full recovery is unlikely.

Nordic walking

This is one of the most effective types of physical activity for osteochondrosis and it is gaining more and more popularity every year.

While walking with poles, 90% of the muscles become toned, active burning of calories occurs, the load is evenly distributed throughout the body, the cardiovascular system is strengthened, intestinal function is improved, the nervous system and psyche are strengthened, the functions of the respiratory system are improved, insomnia disappears, blood vessels are strengthened, a strong corset is formed around the thoracic spine.

Osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine: symptoms and treatment

The disease usually manifests itself as sharp or aching pain in the back. Also, pain can spread to the shoulder, frontal area of ​​the sternum or hypochondrium. The most intense pain is observed when the patient remains in one position.

The main symptom of thoracic osteochondrosis is a painful sensation when touching the spinous processes of the vertebrae. The etiology of pain may be similar to manifestations of kidney stones, angina, peptic ulcer or cholecystitis.

Treatment of thoracic osteochondrosis should be comprehensive and include drug therapy, massage, physiotherapy, and physical therapy. Also, do not ignore traditional medicine, because homemade ointments and rubs will help relieve pain.

Experts call mechanical injuries to the spine and back the main reason for the development of thoracic osteochondrosis. The manifestation of a painful condition usually makes itself felt through intense pain. Painful sensations can be short-term or aching for a long time.

Modern medicine offers a variety of treatment methods for thoracic osteochondrosis, which can be used at home or under the supervision of a neurologist.

Drug treatment

One of the main and most effective methods of treating thoracic osteochondrosis and its symptoms is the use of medications prescribed by a doctor. The course of therapy usually involves taking the following medications:

  • antispasmodics;
  • papain;
  • painkillers and analgesics;
  • non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
  • chondroprotectors that restore cartilage tissue;
  • diuretics intended to relieve swelling;
  • hormonal drugs.

However, taking medications should only be started after consulting a neurologist, who will determine the degree of pathological changes and the cause of their occurrence.

Depending on the prescribed drug, the form of its use may differ. Tablet forms, ointments and creams, as well as injection solutions are very popular. However, the best type and type of use of medications can only be determined by a qualified specialist.

Physiotherapy

Exercise therapy specialists develop a special set of exercises that are aimed at relieving muscle tension and stiffness of the spine. This effect can be achieved by increasing mobility. With a professional approach to drawing up an exercise therapy program, it is possible not only to get rid of symptoms and treat thoracic osteochondrosis, but also to achieve overall health improvement of the body. Properly selected exercises lead to strengthening the muscle corset and improving pulmonary ventilation.

Among the most common exercises are the following:

  1. Sit with a straight back and slowly move your head back, you can help by gently pressing your hand on your chin in an upward-backward direction. Slowly turn your head to the right and left. It is recommended to maintain this pose for about 1 minute.
  2. Tilt your head forward while pressing on your forehead with your intertwined fingers. Pressure should be gradually applied in the area of ​​the back of the head and temples. Each movement should be performed for at least 10 seconds each.
  3. Raise your shoulders as high as possible, trying to reach your ears, and lower them slowly or quickly over 15 seconds. Repeat the exercise with each shoulder in turn. Rub your neck with your palms.
  4. Place your fingertips on the surface of your forehead towards each other. Using gentle pressure and circular movements, stretch the skin for 10-40 seconds.
  5. Sit on a chair, do not lean on the back. Take a diaphragmatic breath (push your stomach out), lift your shoulders, then move them back so that your shoulder blades come together, and as you exhale, lower them down and relax. Repeat 5 times. Feel the tension and relaxation of your muscles.
  6. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, arms at your sides parallel to the floor. Bend them slightly at the elbows, then forcefully pull them back - exhale noisily through your mouth so that your shoulder blades come together, and return to their original position - inhale through your nose. Repeat the movement 10 times, then lower your arms along your body and relax. Repeat one more time.
  7. Standing, the arms hang along the body like whips. Pull your shoulders towards your ears, but do not pull your head in. Hold the position for 3 to 5 seconds, then relax.
  8. While standing, hug yourself. First, spread your arms to the sides, then clasp your left shoulder with your right and vice versa. This is a relaxation exercise.
  9. Stand with your arms extended along your body. Gently spread your limbs to the sides, then slowly raise your arms up, while simultaneously lifting your entire body on your toes, lower down in front of you. The exercise must be repeated at least 10 times.

The above exercises can be performed at home, but experienced neurologists will help supplement exercise therapy with additional techniques to improve spinal health. Also, the most effective is to perform sets of exercises in small groups.

If the group includes patients with approximately equivalent symptoms and degrees of the disease, then competitive passion develops between them against their will. Also, having a clear example from the instructor makes it easier to perform a given set of exercises at the recommended intensity. Other members of the therapy group will be able to provide you with moral support. Also, additional inspiration will be a positive example from practitioners who were able to significantly improve their well-being with the help of exercise therapy.

Of no small importance in achieving the required therapeutic effect is the combination of therapeutic physical education with medicinal forms of treatment and massage procedures. Therefore, it is most rational to carry out treatment in specialized treatment and prevention centers.

Applicators

An important role in the treatment of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is played by the use of special massage mats. An example of such products are affordable and functional Kuznetsov or Lyapko applicators. When choosing products, the main attention should be paid to the size, sharpness and shape of the needles. Depending on the purpose, the massagers in question may take the form of a mat or a roller.

After consulting with your doctor, you can choose applicators that are suitable for the most effective treatment. In this case, the massager needles will influence the nerve endings of the problem area, as well as stimulate improvement of blood supply in this area.

Important! The most rational option would be to use Lyapko and Kuznetsov massage mats immediately after applying the gel or ointment. By improving the blood supply to the problem area, the active substance of the drug will quickly penetrate the epicenter of the pain and begin its effect.

Physiotherapeutic treatment

Of no small importance in the treatment of osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is the implementation of appropriate physiotherapeutic procedures. It is these methods of influence that are effective regardless of the patient’s form of osteochondrosis. Among the main forms of physiotherapy, the following procedures can be distinguished:

  • magnetic therapy;
  • laser exposure;
  • wave therapy;
  • electrophoresis.

The above procedures are carried out by specialists in the physiotherapy room and provide a pronounced analgesic effect, increase blood circulation, and improve the penetration of drugs used externally into the deep subcutaneous layers.

If you have at home such equipment and special devices as Almag, Vitafon, SCENAR or DENAS, after consultation with your doctor to exclude possible contraindications, you can begin independent treatment. However, we should not forget that treatment of thoracic osteochondrosis at home is much less effective.

The listed types of physiotherapeutic effects can be successfully combined, creating more intense complexes that allow you to achieve better results. Examples of such combinations include:

  • Almag + SCENAR or DENAS;
  • Vitafon + SCENAR or DENAS;
  • Almag + Vitafon + SCENAR or DENAS.

No matter how effective home therapy is, only a doctor can choose the right treatment regimen. Therefore, if you notice the first alarming signs and symptoms, contact specialized centers to get diagnosed. A qualified specialist will not only determine the complexity of the pathology, but will also select the type of treatment that is most suitable for you using the above devices.

Massage and self-massage

At an appointment with an experienced massage therapist, you can quickly relax tight muscle tissue and stimulate toning of areas that need it. In addition, back massage can be performed using special ointments and preparations, which helps relieve pain in the problem area and reduce discomfort.

It is impossible to massage the thoracic area of ​​the spine on your own. However, with osteochondrosis of this department, disturbances in the cervical-collar area are often observed. Therefore, the following set of simple but very effective exercises will be useful to you:

  1. Sitting on a chair, carefully place your hands behind your head. Using gentle, gentle movements, knead the back and sides of your neck.
  2. Having reached the spine with your hands, gently knead it first on the left and then on the right side.
  3. Gradually move your right hand behind your left shoulder and stretch the muscles in the shoulder blade area. Then repeat the massage on the other side.
  4. Finish the self-massage course with gentle stroking of the problem area.

The above massage techniques and techniques can be performed at home, however, experienced neurologists will help supplement exercise therapy with additional techniques to improve the health of the spine. Also, the most effective is to perform sets of exercises in small groups.

After massaging and warming up the muscles of the neck and back, it is recommended to take a warm shower, which will help relax and self-heal muscle tissue. After completing the water procedures, rub thoroughly with a terry towel.

Traditional medicine tips

There are a lot of them. It is unrealistic to present even a small part in one article. Consider complex therapy with traditional methods:

  1. Every day for a long time, take 1 glass of warm milk in the morning and evening, adding a teaspoon of dead bees, alcohol tincture of propolis and honey. This is a real vitamin and mineral cocktail for the body.
  2. Spend several hours every day outdoors, preferably in rural areas.
  3. Do self-massage of the neck-collar area and part of the thoracic region (wherever you can reach) daily.
  4. Every day, morning and afternoon, perform a simple set of exercises (see below).
  5. Every day before going to bed, lie on the Lyapko (or Kuznetsov) applicator for about 30 minutes.
  6. Every day, ask your relatives to give you a honey massage on the surface of your entire spine.
  7. If your health allows, visit the bathhouse at least once a week, and after it, be sure to drink plenty of herbal tea.

Remember that traditional medicine perfectly complements the complex treatment of thoracic osteochondrosis, but is not suitable for independent use. The main purpose of such techniques is to relieve or relieve pain.

Surgery

The most serious complications of the advanced form of cervical osteochondrosis are the following conditions:

  • visually noticeable protrusion of intervertebral discs, which is accompanied by the formation of a hernia;
  • rupture of the intervertebral disc, which leads to pinching of nerve endings and blood vessels, possibly disrupting the basic functions of the spinal cord, which can lead to death;
  • pronounced radiculopathies can also occur, which are lesions of the nerve roots, the formation of osteophytes with the manifestation of paresis and paralysis.

Elimination of such pathological conditions can be performed exclusively by surgery. The implementation of this task is possible if there are appropriate indications and only after a complete examination, which will exclude the presence of contraindications. Performing an operation to remove appendages and hernia is impossible if the patient has serious disorders of the cardiovascular system, diabetes mellitus and other serious diseases.

Experts call mechanical injuries to the spine and back the main reason for the development of thoracic osteochondrosis. The manifestation of a painful condition usually makes itself felt through intense pain. Painful sensations can be short-term or aching for a long time.

Lack of proper attention to the exacerbation of osteochondrosis of the thoracic region, a person may develop complications such as atherosclerosis, prostate dysfunction, pneumosclerosis and even infertility. The progression of the disease leads to the gradual destruction of the vertebrae, cartilage and ligaments.

Drug therapy

Drug therapy is used only in the acute phase of osteochondrosis and when other treatment methods are ineffective.

At the height of the disease, painkillers are prescribed, as well as drugs that speed up metabolic processes. Both medications in the form of tablets and injections help.

Groups of medications prescribed:

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which also relieve pain. Available in the form of cream, tablets and ampoules for intravenous or subcutaneous administration.
  • Vasodilators. During muscle tension and severe pain, vasoconstriction occurs, as a result, blood pressure may increase and oxygen supply to the brain may become difficult. Vasodilators bring vascular tone back to normal.
  • Muscle relaxants. This group of drugs is designed to relax and soothe tense muscles. This effect triggers a chain of beneficial changes such as improved blood circulation, regulation of vascular tone and relief from pain. When blood flow is normalized, damaged tissues are restored faster.
  • Chondroprotectors and B vitamins. These are drugs that restore cartilage tissue, stopping the destruction process.
  • Complex of sedatives. The stress of pain makes the pain worse. Irritability and anxiety trigger the sympathetic nervous system into action, which leads to even greater tone of muscles and blood vessels. Sedatives and sometimes antidepressants can break this vicious circle.

As you can see, the treatment of osteochondrosis needs to be approached comprehensively, having studied all the nuances. It’s best to turn to specialists, thereby protecting yourself from mistakes.

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