Lumbar osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis is a widespread disease of the spine that affects the intervertebral discs and cartilage. The neck and lumbar areas are more susceptible to such procedures. Lumbar osteochondrosis can cause persistent pain in the lower back and make a person's life more complicated. When treating the disease, priority is given to conservative methods; surgical intervention is used only in extreme cases.

Causes of lumbar osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis is not so much a disease as it is a natural phenomenon that occurs due to age-related degenerative changes in the spine. Normally, lumbar discs act as shock absorbers between two vertebrae, allowing the joints and spine to move easily. The outer portion of the disc, the annulus fibrosus, surrounds the disc's soft inner core, the nucleus pulposus. Everyone develops degenerative changes in their spinal discs as they age, but not everyone develops symptoms.Osteochondrosis is thought to begin with changes in the annulus fibrosus, intervertebral discs, and subchondral bone. The annulus fibrosus loses moisture, making it unable to withstand the daily loads of the spine and preventing it from properly distributing the load. Overloading of the posterior vertebrae leads to arthritis of the facet joints and hypertrophy (growth, formation of osteophytes - bone growth) of the vertebral bodies adjacent to the affected discs.refer to! According to statistics, 30% of people aged 30 to 50 have some degree of intervertebral disc degeneration.There are two main pathophysiological causes of lumbar osteochondrosis pain. One possible cause of pain is inflammation of the nerves due to rupture of the outside of the disc and leakage of the inner core. Releases inflammatory proteins and stimulates nerve tissue.According to the second reason, the vertebrae are no longer able to effectively absorb loads due to age-related deformations. This causes abnormal movement in the spine and causes painful spasms in the back muscles trying to stabilize the spine.The result of osteochondrosis may be destruction of spinal segments, leading to radiculitis. Risk factors that trigger and accelerate the degenerative process of the spine are:

• Genetic predisposition to diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
• smokes;
• previous injury;
• hormonal and vascular diseases;
• Being overweight;
• The muscles are too weak to provide necessary support to the spine;
• Professional activities related to heavy manual labor (athletes, loaders).

Development stages of lumbar osteochondrosis

Disc disease, which causes the degeneration and destruction of the discs, occurs gradually. The entire pathological process goes through several stages, and the stages (or degrees) of lumbar osteochondrosis are distinguished according to these stages:

• The first stage (degree) is characterized by mild symptoms. The sensation of pain is generated against the background of stimulation of nerve endings by the nucleus pulposus and penetrates into the cracks in the annulus fibrosus.
• The second stage is characterized by displacement of the upper vertebrae relative to the lower vertebrae due to breakdown of the core and annulus. These pathological processes can lead to neurological symptoms, numbness and instability in the affected area, in addition to pain during movement.
• The third stage is characterized by increased pain and disc herniation due to disruption of the integrity of the annulus fibrosus. Pain, sensory disturbances, and muscle weakness can interfere with daily tasks. Due to nerve root compression, the function of the urinary and intestinal systems may be disrupted.
• The fourth stage corresponds to the complete destruction of the intervertebral discs, they become fibrotic, and osteochondral growth of the vertebral bodies leads to immobility of the spine in this part.

Symptoms of lumbar osteochondrosis

First, ask the experts for advice:

• Neurologist
• Orthopedist
• therapist

The main symptom of lumbosacral osteochondrosis is pain. The condition is often worsened when sitting for long periods of time, rotating, bending the spine, or lifting heavy objects. Pain may radiate to the legs, groin, and be accompanied by numbness and weakness. Moderate, sore, dull pain may worsen.Symptoms directly depend on the stage of development of the pathology:

• In the early stages, when degenerative changes are just beginning to appear, symptoms are mild.
• The intermediate stage is characterized by weakening of the annulus fibrosus, which may already manifest as low back pain.
• Later, when the structures become fibrotic and osteophytes form, the pain becomes less noticeable, but the mobility of the spine is significantly reduced.

There may be increased sensitivity in the lower back when touched. The characteristic tingling and tingling sensation in the buttocks and thighs is a sign of nerve root compression due to degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs. Patients with lumbar osteochondrosis have difficulty bending forward, backward, and sideways. Osteochondrosis may be complicated by disc herniation and spinal stenosis, along with the development of other symptoms.

Diagnosis of lumbar osteochondrosis

Diagnosis begins with taking a history, interviewing, and examining the patient. The specialist will be interested in your chief complaints, physical activity, old injuries, bad habits, and illnesses in close relatives. During the physical exam, your doctor will palpate (feel) the lower part of your spine, looking for areas of tenderness, inflammation, or any abnormalities. He may also check sensation and perform exercise testing.The most common method for diagnosing lumbar osteochondrosis is X-ray examination. When air bubbles are detected in the disc thickness, the images will show the presence of osteophytes, narrowing of the disc joint space, or so-called "vacuum" symptoms. Other methods used are:

• An MRI shows hydration (water saturation), the shape of the disc, and its height, allowing the identification of compressed nerves.
• CT scans allow you to study tissue conditions in detail and diagnose disease at an early stage.
• Provocative discography to determine the location of the affected disc.

refer to! MRI is a fairly accurate diagnostic method, but it cannot detect ruptures in the outer ring of the disc.

Treatment methods for lumbar osteochondrosis

The preferred treatment for lumbar degenerative disc disease associated with chronic pain is conservative management with physical therapy, exercise, and medications. For patients with lumbar osteochondrosis, it is recommended:

• Daily living, including adequate rest and adequate physical activity;
• Perform regular physical exercise to enhance muscle strength;
• Lifestyle modifications, including nutrition review and weight loss.

physiotherapy

Various physical therapy techniques have been successfully used to reduce low back pain. Physiotherapy promotes the regeneration process of the intervertebral disc, stimulates metabolic and transport processes, and prevents the formation of adhesions and further damage.Physical therapy methods used to treat spinal osteochondrosis include:

• Electrical stimulation. Electrical pulses help relieve back pain and improve blood circulation to the affected spine.
• Ultrasound therapy. Ultrasound can penetrate deep into tissue and help relieve inflammation and pain.
• Magnet therapy. Magnetic fields can improve blood circulation and metabolic processes in tissues and promote their regeneration.
• Laser Treatment. Laser beams can help relieve pain, stimulate blood circulation, and stimulate tissue regeneration.
• Ultrasonic electrophoresis. This method combines ultrasound therapy with the use of medications, which can penetrate deep into tissue and help relieve inflammation and pain.

important! Contrary to popular belief, osteochondrosis can and should be treated. If left untreated, it can become a source of chronic pain and can lead to many problems, including disruption of internal organ function.

medical treatement

To relieve pain that interferes with daily activities, patients take analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Depending on the indication, the doctor may prescribe stronger medications: muscle relaxants, steroids, and narcotic pain relievers. Therapeutic blockade uses local anesthetics and corticosteroids to relieve severe pain.

Surgery

Surgical intervention is used much less frequently to treat lumbar osteochondrosis. It may include disc replacement or lumbar fusion (which allows two vertebrae to fuse while relieving pain by eliminating motion in that part of the spine).If the movement of the spine is significantly impaired, special intervertebral spacers may be installed. Total lumbar disc replacement may be performed in patients who have failed to respond to all other treatments.

Treatment of lumbar osteochondrosis at home

The most effective way to maintain function and manage pain at home is to exercise. They increase the flow of blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the spine, helping to keep the cartilage hydrated and the spine flexible for as long as possible. Additionally, endorphins are released during exercise, which are natural pain relievers.Frequent changing of positions can also bring relief. There are certain positions that can help with pain attacks: kneeling, reclining, lying down. Short rest is necessary and helpful, but staying in bed for long periods of time will only worsen the condition. Staying active is important to prevent the progression of the disease. People with lumbar osteochondrosis can benefit from walking, swimming, cycling, yoga, Pilates, stretching, and muscle-strengthening corsets. The following measures may also help:

• Applying heat to the lower back can improve blood circulation and relieve muscle spasms and tension.
• Ice packs can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
• Massage can also relieve pain by relaxing muscles, relieving spasms, and reducing pressure on the spine. By increasing blood circulation to the area, metabolic processes are improved and the tissues are enriched with oxygen.
• Use orthopedic mattresses and pillows. They will help maintain the correct position of the spine during sleep.
• Proper distribution of load on the spine. When lifting heavy objects, you should use correct lifting techniques to avoid pressure on the lumbar spine.
• Proper nutrition. A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamins helps keep bones and joints healthy.

However, if you have pain or other symptoms, you should consult your doctor for more accurate advice and to evaluate the condition of your spine before starting to treat osteochondrosis at home.

Which doctor should I contact for lumbar osteochondrosis?

If characteristic symptoms of lumbar osteochondrosis occur, it is recommended to consult a neurologist or orthopedic surgeon. You can also make an appointment with a therapist if you have lower back pain. He will prescribe the necessary tests for diagnosis and refer you to specialists.

Treatment of lumbar osteochondrosis

Specialists at the nearest clinic in your city or elsewhere are ready to understand the cause and help cope with the pain. Doctors usually have extensive clinical experience and know all modern methods of treating and diagnosing osteochondrosis in women and men. In most cases, a convenient location, excellent equipment and versatility of the institution are the priorities of modern medicine, allowing you to quickly undergo any examination and restore the health of the musculoskeletal system. You can call a clinic convenient for you to make an appointment or fill out the online form on the website to make an appointment.

Prevention of lumbar osteochondrosis

Effective methods to prevent lumbar osteochondrosis include:

• Get regular physical activity. Stay in good physical condition. Strengthen back muscles. Back stretching and strengthening exercises will help keep your spine healthy.
• Reduce Spine Stress: Avoid unnecessary stress on your spine. When lifting heavy objects, use proper lifting techniques.
• Posture Correction: Ensure correct posture. Sit up straight, stand up straight, don't slouch. Choose an orthopedic pillow and mattress for sleep to maintain the correct position of your spine while you rest. Invest in quality shoes with good cushioning and support.
• If due to the nature of your profession you are forced to sit for long periods of time, use an orthopedic chair to protect your back. Avoid staying in one position for long periods of time. Take regular breaks and stretch your spine.
• Watch your weight. Being overweight can put extra stress on your spine.
• Avoid uncontrolled movements and back injuries. Use caution when engaging in sports or physical activity.
• Quit smoking, which can have a negative impact on your spinal health.

By following simple advice, you can live an active and fulfilling life and minimize your risk of back pain. If you have symptoms of lumbar pain, you must consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.