Chondrosis of the thoracic spine is a fairly common disease, which is most susceptible to people of mature and old age. The disease is accompanied by a gradual degeneration of the intervertebral disc, which is accompanied by a loss of elasticity and associated damage.
Thoracic chondrosis and its causes
In fact, there are many reasons that can lead to the destruction of cartilage tissue of the spine. First of all, it is worth noting excessive physical activity. Chondrosis can be the result of both severe trauma and minor, but permanent damage to the intervertebral discs.
On the other hand, an inactive lifestyle and sedentary work can also trigger degeneration processes. The fact is that the absence of movements, as well as the constant static load on the spine, can disrupt normal blood circulation and, accordingly, trophic cartilage tissue, which leads to the development of so many unpleasant and dangerous diseases.
Chondrosis of the thoracic spine and its symptoms
In fact, such a disease is accompanied by very non-specific symptoms, so it is often difficult to diagnose. The early stages of dystrophy may be completely asymptomatic.
Nevertheless, lesions of the thoracic vertebral column, as well as chondrosis of the cervicothoracic region, are accompanied by pains that increase with additional load, for example, when lifting weights. Pain can be given to the shoulder blade or arm. Often attacks of pain resemble the symptoms characteristic of heart and stomach diseases, as a result of which patients simply go to the wrong doctor.
Sometimes cramps appear during inhalation or during exhalation. Often, soreness appears at night and is associated with an uncomfortable body position during sleep. Unlike heart pain, discomfort does not stop with vasodilator drugs.
In any case, it is worthwhile to understand that chondrosis of the thoracic spine is a rather dangerous condition. That is why at the first signs of the disease it is worthwhile to seek help from a specialist. Indeed, in the absence of therapy, complications are possible, in particular, a hernia of the intervertebral discs.
Thoracic Chondrosis Treatment
In this case, therapy is a long and complex process. And it is worth considering that the sooner treatment is started, the greater the chances of a successful recovery.
To begin with, doctors prescribe a special medication - chondroprotectors, which help restore the structure of cartilage and stop the process of degeneration. The Arthritozamine drug is considered quite effective today. In addition, local anti-inflammatory drugs and special painkillers are used to help relieve pain attacks and significantly improve the patient's quality of life.
In addition, regular therapeutic massages are important, which help improve blood circulation and trophic vertebral structures. The doctor must choose the appropriate physical exercises. Regular therapeutic exercises not only help activate blood circulation, but also strengthens the muscles, creating the so-called “muscle corset”, which reduces the load on the spine.
Of course, nutrition is important, as all necessary nutrients and minerals must be present in the human diet. A person with a similar diagnosis also needs to more carefully choose a mattress and pillow and properly arrange the workplace. In some cases, wearing a special corset is required.