Spinal column diseases can hardly be considered a rarity. And degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbar spine are most common due to the fact that this segment accounts for the main load. So what caused such violations and can they be cured?
Degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbar spine and their causes
There are many diseases that are accompanied by changes in the bone and cartilage structures of the spinal column. Among them, chondrosis and osteochondrosis can be distinguished, as well as a hernia, spondylosis, and many others. Of course, each of these diseases has its own characteristics. However, some common risk factors can be identified.
Most often, degenerative-dystrophic changes in the spine are somehow related to the age of the patient. Indeed, over the years, cartilage tissue, small joints and intervertebral discs simply wear out and become thinner.
In addition, such injuries are often the result of mechanical trauma, which occurs with constant lifting of weights, falling, inflammation, etc.
Degenerative-dystrophic changes in the disks are often associated with the features of human labor. Office work, too intense physical activity, inactive lifestyle, overweight - all this can be attributed to the most common risk factors.
Degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbar spine: the main symptoms
In fact, the clinical picture may be different and depends on which particular structures of the spinal column were damaged and how serious the present disorders are. In most cases, symptoms appear as the processes of dystrophy progress, so the first stages of the disease can go away without any external signs.
In the future, there is a feeling of stiffness and heaviness in the lower back. The main symptom of such pathologies is still pain. Soreness can occur during physical exertion, long walking, etc. Such attacks are usually wave-like - the pain appears or disappears.
In addition, the gradual degeneration of the intervertebral discs or joints can lead to more dangerous complications. In particular, often squeezing of blood vessels occurs, as a result of which normal trophic tissue is disturbed, which only exacerbates the process of degeneration. It's no secret that hernia and osteochondrosis are fraught with damage to nerve roots, which is also dangerous, as the normal innervation of structures is disrupted. For example, such diseases are often accompanied by pain or numbness of the lower extremities, their loss of mobility and sensitivity.
In any case, if you are concerned about chronic lower back pain, you should immediately consult a specialist. After X-ray studies and some additional tests, the doctor will be able to make the correct diagnosis and prescribe treatment.
How are degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbar spine treated?
In fact, the choice of therapy depends on many factors, in particular on the cause of the disease, the condition and age of the patient, the presence of concomitant injuries. For example, in severe cases of intervertebral hernia , surgical intervention is necessary.
Conservative therapies are used in the early stages. They include the use of chondroprotectors, anti-inflammatory and analgesics. Extremely important is therapeutic exercises, which helps to strengthen muscles, create additional support for the spinal column. Massage, acupuncture, and sometimes manual therapy will be helpful . Some patients are advised to wear a special corset, which removes the load from the lumbar and prevents the exacerbation of the disease.