The human spine is the basis of its skeleton. The slightest changes in its functioning entail a change in the functions of not only the bones, but also of all other organs. Due to the fact that the spine is subjected to heavy loads, morphological changes are often observed in it, among which spondylosis is often found.
Morphology of the disease
As a result of osteochondrosis, injuries or tuberculous lesions of the vertebrae, bone antennae, osteophytes, can grow on them. If this happens in the chest, there is spondylosis of the thoracic spine.
Over time, the processes can grow together with other vertebrae, which practically immobilizes this part of the spinal column.
The development of spondylosis is more characteristic of the elderly, although its first manifestations are possible after 30 years. The danger of the disease lies in the fact that it does not manifest itself until it passes into the acute stage, which is very difficult to treat. Therefore, people at risk should be examined periodically so as not to exacerbate the disease to a critical state.
Symptom set
Deforming spondylosis of the thoracic spine differs from other types of this disease in that the bone processes change the shape of the spinal canal. As a result of this, pinching of the nerve endings and blood vessels occurs . At first, no symptoms let you know that a dangerous disease is developing on the vertebrae. When it enters the acute stage of the course, sharp back pain appears, aggravating in the evening. Neither a change in body position nor absolute calm removes them. The mobility of the spine decreases until it is completely impossible to bend in the area of the affected vertebrae. Pain sensations are asymmetrical. Their foci are located on one side of the spine. Severe pain gives not only to the back, but also to all organs of the sternum. Sometimes the front wall of the chest can even hurt.
Diagnosis of the disease
It is very important in the early stages to diagnose spondylosis of the thoracic spine. Symptoms at this time are weak, but the risk group must be examined, even if there is no apparent reason.
First of all, an experienced doctor can determine the disease by feeling the area of possible damage. But radiography is considered more effective. In order for the picture to be indicative, it must be done in two projections: longitudinal and transverse.
Previously, this was the only diagnostic method. Today, the presence of the disease, even in the early stages, can be seen using computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. These examination methods provide a more accurate picture of how spondylosis of the thoracic spine proceeds and what its nature is. This diagnostic accuracy allows you to more correctly select a treatment strategy.
Risk group
In old age, almost one in three has a diagnosis of spondylosis. The development of this disease is associated with a number of factors that occur in many people throughout life.
First of all, those who already have a diagnosis of osteochondrosis are at risk. Thoracic spondylosis develops at the site of dystrophy of the intervertebral disc. Since the distance between the vertebrae is significantly reduced, the processes can grow together much faster.
People with a sedentary sedentary lifestyle are also susceptible to the disease. None of us makes sure that the back and shoulders are in the correct anatomical position while sitting. As a result, the load on the spine increases, which stimulates the development of the disease.
Injury also often causes spondylosis. Damaged bone grows uncontrollably in different directions. Because of this, spondylosis develops, most often deforming.
Pharmacological treatment
Due to the fact that deforming spondylosis of the thoracic spine is a chronic disease, we are not talking about a complete cure. Osteophytes remain with a person until the end of his life. But you can significantly alleviate his suffering.
In the early stages with the help of drugs, it is quite possible to stop the development of bone processes even before they begin to cause discomfort. A more acute course of the disease is treated by relieving acute pain. First of all, analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed. In more severe cases, opiates may be used. Since there is strong muscle tension in the affected areas, doctors prescribe special relaxants to relax them. And the last group of drugs is painkillers for pinched nerves. These drugs have a slightly different focus than analgesics.
Surgical intervention
If the vertebrae are fused together, surgery is needed to eliminate spondylosis of the thoracic spine. Treatment in this way is prescribed extremely rarely, since it has a long rehabilitation period.
With surgical intervention, truncation of the processes occurs. The complexity of the operation is that there are a lot of blood vessels and nerve endings around the vertebrae. In addition, there is always a danger of damage to the spinal cord. Since indications for surgery arise, as a rule, in old age, there is also a risk that the heart may not withstand anesthesia. Therefore, surgical interventions for the treatment of this disease are extremely rare and are prescribed if they will be more useful than harm.
Folk remedies
Alternative medicine also has methods that can stop spondylosis of the thoracic spine. Treatment with folk remedies in many cases gives positive results, but only if they are used correctly.
The main drugs are decoctions and tinctures, which are taken on an empty stomach 2-3 times a day. As medicinal herbs, leaves of burdock, birch or currant are used. Regarding the exact recipes, it is better to consult an experienced phytotherapist, and you must inform your doctor about your intention to try folk remedies. In this case, you need to eat right. It is especially important to get a sufficient amount of potassium, which is a lot in raisins, dried apricots, pumpkin, cabbage.
There is no magic cure for this disease. Therefore, do not completely neglect the traditional treatment. Otherwise, the consequences may be dire.
Physical therapy as an additional treatment for diseases of the spine
Due to the fact that this disease develops due to improper loads and muscle tension, therapeutic gymnastics gives a good result in the fight against it . Spondylosis of the thoracic spine responds worst to physical exercises, but there is still a certain gymnastics that can restore lost flexibility.
Here are some examples. Starting position: raise your hands above your head and close in the lock. Perform 6-10 inclines in each direction. The second exercise is performed on all fours. Lower the back as far as possible, forming an arc, and fix it in this position for 3-5 seconds. Then bend your back upward in an arc and stay in that position. Perform 10 times.
Any exercises should be performed during periods of calming pain. Strong pain is considered a contraindication for gymnastics, as they can only worsen.
Disease prevention
Than to cure a disease, it is better to prevent it. Since spondylosis of the thoracic spine can develop in almost every modern person leading a sedentary lifestyle, care must be taken to minimize risk factors.
You need to sit in a comfortable chair that supports the back in an anatomical position and removes the load. After a certain time, you need to do a little gymnastics, which helps to strengthen the back muscles and relieve tension from them. It is also recommended to do a relaxing back massage, which relieves muscle fatigue and contributes to their proper functioning.
Good for back swimming. This not only strengthens it, but also prevents the development of various diseases. The effect of swimming is that there is no vertical load on the spine and it can rest and relax.