According to the classification of the International Classification of Diseases, lumbar osteochondrosis belongs to group ten (ICD 10).This disease is one of the most commonly diagnosed spinal disorders.
Changes in the course of the disease and complications lead to the development of intervertebral hernias, severe pain, and disc dysfunction.
80% of patients who seek help for low back pain suffer from this condition.Generally, osteochondrosis occurs in old age for the following reasons:
- Increased loads associated with the lower back throughout life,
- lime salt deposits,
- Age-related changes.
Description and symptoms of disease
Characteristic signs of lumbar spine pathology include the following:
- reduced flexibility and mobility;
- Difficulty turning, rotating, and tilting the body;
- general fatigue;
- sleep disorders;
- Difficulty meeting natural needs and self-care due to pain;
- Irritability, sudden sweating;
- Chills or tingling in the legs;
- Manifestations of spasm of arteries in the feet;
- Sexual dysfunction (men), menstrual cycle (women);
- Varicose veins.
In fact, the question of what is lumbar osteochondrosis can be answered through the following arguments:
- The distance between the intervertebral discs is shortened, their function is disrupted, moisture and elasticity are lost.
- Excessive tension and chronic weakness of spinal muscles.
- The shock-absorbing ability of the intervertebral disc is impaired, causing partial deformation and affecting nerve endings causing pain (applies to stages 3 and 4 of the disease).
Course of disease
The development of pathology occurs gradually. The history is usually divided into 4 stages:
- The first manifestation is local pain in the waist, which worsens with physical activity.This symptom indicates excessive muscle tension and the disc deformation process has begun.In addition, patients at this stage may feel a dull pain in the back that radiates to the buttocks area, with stinging and burning sensations.Typically, the pain occurs after lifting heavy objects or making sudden movements.
- The second stage of the disease is characterized by the beginning of deformation of the surrounding tissue, the annulus fibrosus of the disc, and a decrease in the natural distance between the vertebrae.Nerve roots can also become compressed (squeezed).During this stage, patients may experience severe pain that worsens when walking.There may be a burning or cold feeling in the legs.Disc stretching and protrusion develops. If a pain attack occurs, the patient mechanically deviates in the opposite direction from the source of the pain syndrome.
- The third degree is characterized by eventual destruction of the disc annulus and the development of intervertebral herniation.Regardless of load and movement, lower back pain becomes more frequent and intense and radiates to the legs and back.
- The fourth stage of osteochondrosis is characterized by abnormal growth of the vertebrae.Cartilage undergoes a significant atrophy process.Pain may subside, which indicates protective tissue has formed, but this is never a sign of recovery.This stage of the disease most often results in disability.
accompanying diseases
An almost identical presenting feature of the disease is deformation of the spine in corresponding parts of the body.This disease belongs to the advanced stage of osteochondrosis and has the following symptoms:
- Feeling of heaviness in the back, especially in the lower part;
- Severe pain when sitting or moving;
- Lower back pain during bending, stretching, and other movements.
The disease is characterized by dramatic changes in the vertebrae, forming bone growths that irritate the spinal ligaments.Growths (osteophytes) can reach large sizes, causing adjacent vertebrae to partially fuse and put pressure on nerve roots.
In addition to pain, consequences of the disease can be reduced mobility, discomfort during weather changes, and disability.
The disease mainly occurs in the elderly and is caused by excessive pressure on the waist and lime salt deposition.In young people, spondylosis may occur due to spinal curvature and improper distribution of load on the back muscles.
Gymnastics, physical therapy and medical procedures that promote health
It is impossible to completely cure this disease.The first two stages of spinal health problems can be cured quickly and long-term.In addition to medical treatments prescribed by doctors after proper examination, patients are also shown physical procedures and exercise equipment for the treatment of lumbar osteochondrosis.
These include:
- Massage - can reduce pain, strengthen lower back muscles and relax problem areas.
- Physical activities to strengthen back muscles.
- Amplitude pulse, magnetic resonance effect.
- Iontophoresis and dynamic current.
The best treatment for lumbar osteochondrosis is achieved through a comprehensive approach of traditional therapy, massage, physical therapy and traditional medicine.For prevention purposes, you should strengthen your back muscles, do not avoid physical activity, and monitor proper nutrition.Also, don’t forget to treat other back problems promptly and maintain a healthy lifestyle.