Schmorl's defect (or, more correctly, a hernia) is a term that characterizes the forcing of the vertebral body by the cartilaginous tissue of the intervertebral disc.
This phenomenon raises many questions. What causes it? What symptoms indicate this? How to diagnose this defect, what is necessary for treatment? These and many other questions should be answered.
Definition
So, Schmorl's defect is a radiological sign that indicates changes in the structure of the vertebral body and intervertebral disc. It has nothing to do with intervertebral hernia, osteochondrosis, or protrusion.
The defect is most often formed in the period of life between 14 and 17 years. At this time, an active extension of the spine occurs. The spongy substance of the tissue does not keep up with the growth of the body, and therefore it becomes softer. Therefore, cartilaginous tissue penetrates into it, as a result of which a protrusion of the cartilage is formed, which faces with its vertex inside the damaged vertebra.
Old age can also be dangerous. Elderly people are at risk. After all, their so-called mineral density of the skeletal system decreases, often osteoporosis begins to develop.
However, in elderly patients, the structures of the nervous system are not compressed. Symptoms may be absent. However, this does not negate the fact that a defect that does not make itself felt creates the prerequisites for the occurrence of serious diseases of the spine. And therefore treatment is necessary in any case.
Classification
It should be considered first of all, since we are talking about Schmorl defects in vertebral bodies. That it is clear, but what are they?
Multiple and single are distinguished depending on the amount.
A hernia of the second type of the above is diagnosed in 70% of patients. Usually they do not make themselves felt. If the Schmorl defect of the bodies appears in another department, then this leads to a curvature of the spine. Mobility, of course, is also impaired.
But multiple hernias are an indirect symptom that indicates Scheuermann-Mau disease. It is characterized by progressive lumbar hyperlordosis or kyphosis. At first, the symptoms do not make themselves felt, but subsequently multiple hernias lead to impaired motor function.
At the location, central, lateral, rear and front defects are distinguished. In any case, they appear in the rupture of the plates of hyaline cartilage, due to which the nucleus of the intervertebral disc falls out.
Causes
As a rule, one of the following is a prerequisite for the occurrence of Schmorl defects:
- Rachiocampsis.
- Pathological processes on the vertebrae.
- Serious metabolic disorders.
- The effect of atypical loads on the spinal column.
- Bruises or fractures.
- Rupture of fibrous rings located between the vertebrae.
- Growth too fast in childhood. Because of this, soft tissues can outstrip the development of bone structures.
However, in the vast majority of cases, Schmorl's defect (hernia) is a congenital pathology. If it develops, then mainly in adolescence or childhood.
Signs of the disease
The main clinical symptom indicating a Schmorl defect is pain. Its intensity depends on how severe the injury to the fibro-connective ring, as well as on the compression of the roots.
As a rule, patients complain of acute pain in the cervical spine that occurs suddenly. She can also give in the hand. Often amplified by head movement, dependence on the patient’s posture is still evident.
In fact, the irradiation of pain is vast. It may well spread along the shoulder or even move to the forearm. Less commonly, in the thoracic region.
It should also be noted that the localization of small Schmorl defects in the lumbar region is almost always manifested by signs of “classical” radiculitis.
Other symptoms
There are some more signs by which you can learn about the development of this ailment, and they should also be listed, since we are talking about defects of the spine (Schmorl). What are these symptoms? They can be distinguished in the following list:
- Violated posture.
- Fast fatiguability.
- Numbness in limbs.
- Reflex muscle tension.
- Increased pain in the area of the formation of defects after physical exertion.
The disease, which is at an advanced stage, can manifest itself in the following symptoms:
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Constipation or diarrhea.
- Impaired urination.
- Sexual dysfunction.
It is important to remember that over time, pathology is asymptomatic. And the appearance of obvious signs indicating the presence of violations suggests the need for urgent examination and the beginning of intensive treatment.
Effects
They also need to be listed, talking about defects in the spine (Schmorl). That this is now understandable, but what is the risk of ignoring this ailment? The consequences may be as follows:
- Curvature.
- Compression fracture of the spine.
- Intervertebral hernia. It, in turn, leads to infertility, paralysis of the lower extremities, impaired urination and problems with the blood system.
- Arthrosis It is fraught with destruction of cartilage, loss of mobility, even disability.
- Impaired motor activity.
Each consequence leads to a deterioration in the quality of life. That is why it is always better to treat the disease immediately, without leading to complications.
Diagnostics
Due to the asymptomatic course of the disease, small Schmorl defects in the vertebral bodies cannot be detected within the framework of a general examination. They can only be detected by the X-ray method. This can be either magnetic resonance or computed tomography.
Of course, ideally, it is worth at least once a year to conduct such an examination to make sure there are no health problems. And if a person is periodically worried about back discomfort or sometimes any of the symptoms listed above come to their senses, you should consult a doctor immediately.
Treatment objectives
If a vertebral defect (Schmorl) is detected, therapy is prescribed to stop the progression of this pathology. You can not engage in self-medication. Only a doctor can determine tactics, taking into account the patient's age, his individual characteristics, as well as the severity of the pathology.
Here are the treatment goals:
- Eliminate pain if it bothers the patient.
- Eliminate muscle cramps.
- Normalize the blood supply to the spinal muscles.
- Improve bone metabolism.
- Return the spine to its former flexibility.
- Eliminate the likelihood of complications.
In the vast majority of cases, the treatment of Schmorl defects implies the following actions:
- Compliance with the diet.
- Taking appropriate medications. Usually prescribed "Ibuprofen", "Movalis", "Nimesulide."
- The use of vitamin D, fish oil, calcitonin.
- Massage and exercise therapy.
- Physiotherapy.
- Spinal traction.
But, again, the specific approach depends on the circumstances of a particular patient, as well as the degree of neglect.
Surgical intervention
If Schmorl defects occur, surgery is not needed. Only complex therapy is shown, which also includes various physiotherapeutic measures.
But if a person is diagnosed with complications, intervention may be required. With the same compression fracture, for example, an operation cannot be dispensed with.
Because such a consequence affects the condition of the patient and his quality of life. A person begins to weaken, immunity worsens, pain intensifies, dysfunction of internal organs is observed. Only surgery will help here.
Diet and lifestyle
Whatever disorder is diagnosed in a person (whether it is a usurative defect of Schmorl's hernia, or some other), he will need to make some adjustments to his existence.
If he follows a certain algorithm of actions, then the pathology will not only stop in development, it will decrease significantly. In addition, it will be possible to minimize the likelihood of fractures, injuries and problems related to the nervous system.
It is enough to remember such rules:
- Diet is really important. It is necessary to diversify your diet with legumes, fish, dairy products, and also exclude salt. Meals are important to make balanced.
- It is advisable to lose weight, if any. Everyone knows what a heavy load each “extra” kilogram gives to the spine.
- You need to start playing sports. But it’s important not to overdo it - enough light loads. You can go to the pool 2-3 times, for example.
- It is necessary to monitor posture. Otherwise, the problems that the spine already has will intensify.
- And most importantly - you need to take care of yourself, to avoid any injuries. Even an accidental fall or a slight bruise can accelerate the development of such an unpleasant pathology.
Physiotherapy
If a person has been diagnosed with a Schmorl usurative defect (or some other), then to all of the above treatment methods, you may also need to add one of the following:
- Physiotherapy. It is an excellent way to strengthen the spinal muscles and increase the flexibility of the spinal column.
- Manual therapy. Allows you to accelerate the flow and outflow of blood. Also contributes to the growth between the vertebrae of the space.
- Massage. Helps to get rid of weakness and pain, has a positive effect on blood circulation, and also reduces muscle spasms.
- Apitherapy. A peculiar method of treatment. Its basis is bee stings in the back.
- Breast therapy. This is the name of an effective method of treatment, which implies the application of medical leeches to the affected area. These creatures secrete active substances that improve blood circulation and metabolism.
- Traction. This is the notorious stretch of the spine. This procedure is also aimed at accelerating blood circulation in the cartilage and bone tissues. For its implementation requires a special simulator.
The main thing in this matter is to comply with medical recommendations. Even if we are talking about physiotherapy exercises. After all, only correctly selected exercises will help improve metabolic processes throughout the body, strengthen the immune and musculoskeletal systems.
Folk remedies
Many people resort to alternative medicine methods to strengthen the spinal bones. Here are some effective recipes:
- It is necessary to collect the shell from 100 eggs and dry it. Then grind into the smallest dusty powder, add the juice of lemons (1 kg) and three glasses of honey. May need more. The main thing is that the consistency is thick. To stir thoroughly. Take daily in the morning for 1 tbsp. l
- Take a few sheets of burdock, mash slightly and attach to the place where the defect is diagnosed. It is advisable to wind it, making a compress, and leave it all night.
- Take 4-5 cloves of garlic, a mummy dissolved in a small amount of water (1 tsp), honey (3 tbsp.), Horse fat (half a glass) and turpentine (1 tsp). Mix all. Use as an ointment.
Tinctures and decoctions are also popular. It is best to use dandelions, chestnut and potato flowers for their preparation.
Prevention
To protect yourself from the formation of small and deep Schmorl defects, you need to follow these recommendations:
- Do sports that help strengthen your spine. This is active walking, swimming, yoga. You also need to move more.
- Twice a year, take a relaxing, and better therapeutic back massage.
- Keep your weight normal.
- Do not drink alcohol, do not drink salt, eat balanced.
- Seek advice from a specialist if you experience any, even slight discomfort in your back.
In conclusion, it is worth saying that Schmorl’s defects, in general, are not serious violations. Forecasts are always positive. The main thing is not to neglect treatment and lead a healthy lifestyle.