Osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine is diagnosed not only in elderly patients. Recently, pathology occurs even in young people under 30 years of age. Ignoring symptoms can lead to complications. Therefore, it is necessary to know the signs of the disease in order to start treatment in time.
What is lumbar osteochondrosis?
This pathology involves an unhealthy transformation of the vertebrae located in the lumbar region. With the disease, the elasticity of the intervertebral discs decreases due to a deficiency in the supply of nutrients at the cellular level. The location of the disease is due to the fact that it is this area of the spine that bears the greatest load.
Causes
Among the main factors that lead to pathology are the following:
- Genetics.Doctors warn that if one of the parents suffers from this disease, the risk of developing lumbar osteochondrosis in the younger generation is much higher. Therefore, in such a situation, the child must be involved in prevention from childhood.
- Lift weights regularly.This point applies not only to people who earn money through physical labor, but also to athletes who neglect safety precautions.
- Injuries. Any damage to the back can cause pathology. If they are present, you should consult an osteopath or neurologist. It should be noted that many people are not even aware of their injuries. For example, when braking sharply while driving a car, a person may experience spinal displacement.
- Obesity.The column is capable of supporting loads with normal weight. If a person is overweight, the lumbar region of this organ can become deformed.
- Poor posture.Curvature of the spine leads to a violation of the proportional distribution of the load and, subsequently, to osteochondrosis.
- chronic physical inactivity,Lack of movement in lifestyle. Minimal physical activity leads to the fact that the spine is not loaded. At that time, the muscles and ligaments begin to weaken and blood circulation is impaired, which causes a lack of nutrition in the intervertebral discs, which over time lose their elasticity. In this case, all the load and weight is transferred to the discs, squeezing them and subsequently forming hernias.
- Flatfoot.This pathology suggests a lack of normal shock absorption in the legs. This causes the spine to have to work harder than during normal walking. Consequently, the vertebrae wear out faster.
- Stress.The human body is designed in such a way that with any psycho-emotional stress, first of all, the neck tenses. This is a biological atavism. After all, when a predator attacks a mammal, it immediately grabs it by the neck. Chronic stress causes a reflex transition of spasm to the entire spine. Ultimately, this can lead to pinched nerves, including in the lumbar spine. Therefore, after stress, it is important to relieve tension with the help of special gymnastics.
- Aggressive obstetric practice. When the birth process is stimulated, the baby travels the path faster and may be injured as a result. This situation can occur during a cesarean section when the baby's head is strongly tilted to the right or left side. Subsequently, the baby is diagnosed with vegetative-vascular dystonia. The true cause of the pathology is usually identified in adolescence.
Degrees
Osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine, the symptoms and treatment of which are described in detail in this article, has 4 stages of development. Its detailed description is presented in the table.
| Degree | Physiology | Painful sensations |
|---|---|---|
| First | The process of destruction of the intervertebral discs located in this area begins. | Expressed by burning, dull pain or tingling in the lumbar region. Sometimes the localization of unpleasant symptoms moves to the buttocks. The pain syndrome becomes more pronounced after physical work. |
| Second | The discs are increasingly susceptible to destruction, under the influence of which the distance between them is significantly reduced. At this stage bumps may appear. | The pain becomes constant. They can radiate to the buttocks, thighs, and knees. |
| Third | The tissues in this area of the spine are completely susceptible to destruction. Intervertebral hernias form. | The pain is strong and constant. However, they do not depend on the degree of physical activity. |
| Four | The cartilage completely atrophies and the vertebrae begin to grow. The spine loses mobility, which causes disability. | Unpleasant sensations may disappear completely or partially. |
Diagnosis
To make a correct diagnosis, doctors perform the following activities:
- Inspection.At the initial appointment, the specialist visually evaluates the patient's physique, the relationship between his weight and height. In addition, the characteristics of gait, posture and the performance of simple exercises are studied. The skin on your back is examined for the presence of inflamed areas.
- Palpation.The doctor carefully palpates the patient's back to identify the location of tension and pain. In some cases a special hammer is used.
- Bone scan.This diagnostic method is performed in two positions, dorsal and lateral. If a functional study is required, radiation is performed in the bent and unbent state. This diagnostic method has become widespread in the CIS countries and requires the least amount of money. However, it does not allow the pathology to be identified at an early stage of development. Additionally, X-rays are harmful types of radiation.
- Computed tomography.Unlike radiography, it allows you to obtain images of the best quality. The process is carried out using a tomograph and lasts about 10 minutes. As a result, it is possible to study in detail not only the state of bone tissue, but also changes in blood vessels and nerves. The method is not suitable for pregnant and lactating women. It should be noted that, despite the possibility of obtaining more detailed information, the patient experiences radiation 5 times greater than X-ray. It is recommended to perform this exam no more than once a year.
- Magnetic resonance image.It is the most informative way to make a diagnosis. During the procedure, the patient is placed on a plane, which is rolled inside a special chamber, where, using magnetic waves passing through the patient's body, a detailed image of the spine is obtained. The main disadvantage of this diagnosis is the need for the patient to remain in the chamber for about 30 minutes. For people with a certain mental makeup, the procedure can be a difficult test. Additionally, MRI is contraindicated in patients with pacemakers or metal parts in the body, as well as in women in early pregnancy. However, this diagnostic method has many advantages, the main one being the absence of harmful effects on the human body. The resulting images will clearly show not only changes in the vertebrae, but also the direction of blood flow, the state of nerve endings and blood vessels. Unlike previous diagnostic methods, MRI can detect any unfavorable changes in the spine at the earliest stage of lumbar osteochondrosis.
- Blood and urine tests.These procedures should not be called completely diagnostic. They are necessary as an additional examination that is carried out to exclude or confirm rheumatological pathologies.
Treatment
Osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine, the symptoms of which vary in degree.The development of the disease described above suggests the following treatment tactics:
- take medications prescribed by a doctor;
- a physiotherapy course;
- regular performance of a special series of exercises;
- massage.
In some cases, experts recommend surgery.
Pharmacotherapy
All medications prescribed for lumbar osteochondrosis can be divided into the following groups:
- analgesics;
- muscle relaxants;
- chondroprotectors;
- vitamins.
Medicines that perform an analgesic function can be divided into two components: hormonal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. They are equally capable of relieving not only pain, but also reducing inflammation.
However, the first group of drugs is used in exceptional cases. After all, they can cause an imbalance in the endocrine system and reduce immunity. Therefore, hormonal medications can only be purchased upon presentation of a prescription at the pharmacy.
Osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine, the symptoms and treatment of which are described in detail in this article, involves the oral use or intramuscular administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
However, it is not recommended to use it for more than 3 days. Otherwise, a side effect may occur. Next, you can use various topical ointments and creams.
Oral medications are available in the form of tablets, injections, and suppositories.
Injections are used to relieve acute inflammation and pain. It is prohibited to do them for more than 2 days.
Muscle relaxants help relax muscles. However, the danger of its use lies in the fact that this category of drugs blocks the impulse going from the nerve to the muscle.
It should be noted that the motor nerve leaves from the spinal cord to absolutely all muscle fibers throughout the spine.
By taking muscle relaxants, the impulse transmission mechanism is blocked. Due to pinching and overwork in lumbar osteochondrosis, the connection between the nerves and muscles is already broken. The use of these medications further depresses this system.
Reception of chondroprotectors causes the restoration of cartilage tissue.
However, there is a theory that chondroprotectors cannot restore intervertebral discs because they are made of fibrous tissue. In this case, the drug acts exclusively on cartilage tissue.
B vitamins are necessary for the maintenance of nerve fibers.
Physiotherapy
All procedures related to physiotherapy affect the local area of pathology, while nearby tissues and organs remain unchanged.
This includes the following methods of treating lumbar osteochondrosis:
- Electrophoresis with anesthetic.Special medications are injected into the patient's lower back. The entire process is stimulated by electrical current.
- Ultrasound.The objective of this treatment method is tissue micromassage. The procedure helps relieve inflammation and also relieves pain. Blood circulation improves and, consequently, the metabolism is activated.
- Magnetotherapy.This method involves the use of a magnetic field. There is a wide variety of devices with a similar effect, which allows them to be used at home.
- Vibration effect.The devices create certain vibrations in the desired area of the body.
- Detensive therapy.The procedure is performed on a special mattress. The goal is to straighten the spine.
Physiotherapy
Osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine, the symptoms and treatment of which should be consulted with a doctor, requires following certain rules when performing exercises. The fundamental principle is the immediate cessation of actions when pain occurs. Move carefully and gently to avoid damage.
The complex assumes the following algorithm:
- Lie on your back and lift your legs one at a time.
- Turn to your side with your arms stretched forward. Pull your upper leg back. Then turn to the other side and repeat the steps in a mirror image.
- Lying face down, simultaneously pull your legs and arms back.
- Get on all fours. Take turns removing one hand at a time.
- In the same position, raise your right arm and leg. Then repeat the same on the left.
Massage
When performing a massage, it is necessary to comply with the following rules:
- actions should be directed from the upper back to the lower back;
- massage movements can only affect soft tissues, and not the spine;
- Before the procedure, patients are recommended to visit the bathroom.
Massage algorithm:
- Make strokes in the correct direction;
- Perform rubbing movements first with one palm, then with two palms. In this case, it is necessary to control the pressure that the masseuse exerts on the patient's back.
- Gently pull and then tighten the muscle tissue.
- Create vibration using your hands or a special preparation.
- Complete the procedure with light caresses.
Home remedies
Traditional medicine involves the use of medicinal herbs. The main action is aimed at relieving pain.
Homemade analgesic ointment
For this recipe you will need hop cones and animal fat. The first component is crushed and mixed with the second.
Next, the ointment should sit a little and can be rubbed into the lower back area. If desired, the composition can be supplemented with chamomile. It has calming properties and can relieve inflammation.
Honey and potato compress
Raw potatoes should be chopped with a grater. Next, mix the components in equal proportions. The resulting mass should be distributed over the sore area of the back. It is advisable for the patient to remain in this position for several hours and then rinse everything well. This compress temporarily relieves the patient's condition.
Analgesic ointment with ginger.
Grind equal amounts of ginger and garlic on a fine grater. Then you must add a small amount of butter. Mix everything well and rub on the lower back area. The ointment must be prepared immediately before use.
Alcohol tincture of lilac.
Pour a small handful of lilac flowers into a one-liter glass jar. Then fill the container up to the neck with vodka, alcohol or moonshine. The jar should be closed tightly with a lid and left in a cool, dark place. After a week and a half, the product is ready for use.
In this case, it is not necessary to pass the tincture through a filter. You can rub your back with the resulting product. However, the dosage should be minimal. If after use the product is stored in the same way as during infusion, it can be used for a whole year.
herbal baths
Osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine, the symptoms and treatment of which can be studied in this article, is usually accompanied by severe pain. You can remove it with a bath. Warm water helps relax soft tissues, spasm is relieved, and pain disappears for a while.
In some cases, experts recommend using contrasting temperatures to relieve inflammation. It should be noted that taking warm baths accelerates metabolic processes in the body. Another advantage of this method of treating pathology is the possibility of using it at home. In addition, the procedure helps to relieve nervous psycho-emotional tension.
Efficiency can be increased with the help of herbal baths, among which the following should be highlighted:
- Coniferous.It is best to use needles from 3 trees: pine, spruce and cedar. You can also add cones. About 5 handfuls of the collected material should be boiled for about 15 minutes. Then, without opening the lid, let it rest for 2 hours, then strain the broth through a filter and pour into the bath.
- Chamomile. For this recipe it is not necessary to use fresh flowers, you can use a ready-made pharmacy mixture. A glass of chamomile should be filled with water and heated over low heat.
You cannot boil the decoction. When the maximum temperature is reached, the heating must be turned off. Without opening the lid, let it rest for another 3 hours, then the composition can be used. Such a bath will be useful not only for osteochondrosis, but also in the presence of redness and inflammatory processes on the skin. - Juniper.Boil several handfuls of the mixture for about 20 minutes. The broth must then be passed through a filter. In this case, it is not necessary to wait until the composition has completely cooled, you can immediately pour it into the bath. This procedure brings with it an additional aromatherapy effect, which helps relieve stress and relieve insomnia.
After taking any of the above baths, you should lie down for about an hour. It is best to do the procedure before going to bed at night.
Surgical intervention
Although the disease can be effectively treated with conservative treatment, in some cases the patient is recommended to undergo surgery. It is important to note that it must be done in a timely manner. After all, sometimes it happens that a person becomes disabled only because he did not consult a doctor in time about complications.
The following indications are required for surgical intervention:
- prolonged two-month pain, which is eliminated with the help of non-steroidal drugs;
- Progressive problems with motor function.
There are the following types of operations performed for lumbar osteochondrosis:
- Discectomy.Represents a replacement disk. It can be partial or complete.
- Foraminotomy.During surgery, part of the damaged tissue is removed. The operation is performed under local anesthesia.
- Laminotomy.Surgeons partially remove the osteophytes.
- Facetectomy.The operation aims to remove the joint. It is performed under general anesthesia.
- Laminectomy.This surgery is performed to remove part of the spine. At the same time, the rest of the pieces are fixed.
What to do during an exacerbation
During an exacerbation of the disease, it is better to follow the following recommendations:
- prefer hard chairs to soft ones;
- sleep on an orthopedic mattress;
- avoid lifting heavy objects;
- change your body position every quarter of an hour;
- perform a massage.
Complications
Lack of treatment for lumbar osteochondrosis can lead to changes in the normal location of the disc. A hernia forms between the fifth vertebra and the sacrum. In addition, this pathology alters blood circulation in the pelvis. In men, this causes erectile dysfunction and possibly impotence.
For women, the disease threatens problems in the reproductive system. However, the most serious complication is disability, which begins with a gradual deterioration of motor activity.
Osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine has characteristic symptoms. The above complications indicate that it is dangerous to ignore them. After all, modern medicine offers a wide variety of treatment options that give effective results.