Degenerative changes in the tissue of the spine is a problem that most people face. Why does spondylarthrosis occur, what is it and what are its main symptoms? What treatment methods are used today? Many are interested in these issues.
Spondylarthrosis: what is it?
This disease is primarily associated with damage to the small intervertebral joints. Spondylarthrosis develops gradually - at first dystrophic processes of the cartilaginous tissue of the intervertebral discs are observed, as a result of which they become less elastic and thin. Subsequently, the disease covers articular surfaces, periarticular bags and bone tissue of the vertebrae.
Later stages of the disease are accompanied by the formation of spiky bone processes, which are the most dangerous. The fact is that such neoplasms often compress vessels and nerve fibers, which leads to the development of complications.
Spondylarthrosis: what is it and what are its causes?
In fact, dystrophic changes in the joints can be the result of many factors. But first of all, it is worth mentioning the age, since the aging process affects the tissue of the spine. According to statistics, more than 80% of pensioners suffer from spondylarthrosis of varying severity. Although often the disease begins to develop in young people 25-30 years old.
In addition, various metabolic disorders, circulatory disorders, and some congenital features of the spine can be attributed to risk factors. The risk of developing spondylarthrosis is increased in the presence of curvature of the spinal column, flat feet and some other problems.
Often, the disease occurs with increased physical activity, intense loads on the spine, which is observed, for example, among professional athletes. On the other hand, prolonged static loads can also lead to dystrophy, so sedentary work and a sedentary lifestyle can be attributed to risk factors.
Spondylarthrosis: symptoms of the disease
In fact, the clinical picture may look different, depending on the stage of development of the disease and the spine that has been affected. Initial spondylarthrosis may not be symptomatic at all, and a person puts a slight severity and stiffness at the expense of overwork.
However, the main symptoms include pain and loss of mobility, which are most noticeable in the morning, after sleep. If the thoracic and cervical spine is affected, pain can be given to the back, shoulders, shoulder blades and arms. If spondylarthrosis is accompanied by damage to the nerve roots, then numbness and tingling in the fingers are possible. But with dystrophy of the lumbosacral, pain in the legs, sciatica (inflammation of the sciatic nerve), and sometimes a violation in the functioning of the excretory system are possible.
Spondylarthrosis: what is it and how to get rid of it?
Of course, the choice of treatment methods depends on the stage of the disease and the degree of damage to the vertebral structures. At the initial stages, it will be enough to take painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs, chondroprotectors, as well as regular classes in medical gymnastics and proper nutrition. A massage that will eliminate muscle spasm will be effective.
If spondylarthrosis is accompanied by severe compression of the vessels or damage to nerve fibers, the doctor may prescribe a surgical operation to remove bone growths.