Osteochondrosis of the lumbar region

Osteochondrosis is a widespread disease of the spine, which affects the intervertebral discs and cartilage. The cervical and lumbar regions are more susceptible to such processes. Osteochondrosis of the lumbar region can cause constant pain in the lower back and significantly complicate a person's life. In treating the disease, preference is given to conservative methods; Surgical intervention is only used in extreme cases.

Causes of lumbar osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis is not a disease because it is often a natural phenomenon that occurs as a result of age-related degenerative changes in the spine. Normally, the discs in the lumbar spine act as shock absorbers between the two vertebrae and allow the joints and spine to move easily. The outer part of the disc, the annulus fibrosus, surrounds the soft inner core of the disc, the nucleus pulposus. Everyone's spinal discs experience degenerative changes as they age, but not everyone experiences symptoms.

It is believed that osteochondrosis begins with changes in the fibrous ring, intervertebral disc and subchondral bone. The fibrous ring loses water, which makes it less able to withstand the daily load on the spine, distributing it incorrectly. The load on the back of the vertebrae leads to arthritis of the facet joints and hypertrophy (growth, with the formation of osteophytes - bone growth) of the vertebral body adjacent to the affected disc.

Reference! According to statistics, 30% of people aged 30 to 50 have some degree of spinal disc degeneration.

There are two main pathophysiological causes of pain in lumbar osteochondrosis. One of the possible causes of pain is inflammation of the nerve due to the rupture of the outer part of the disc and leakage of the inner core. Inflammatory proteins are released, which irritate nerve tissue.

According to the second reason, the vertebrae, due to age-related deformation, can no longer absorb the load effectively. This causes abnormal movement of the spine and causes painful spasms in the back muscles that try to stabilize the spinal column.

The result of osteochondrosis can be the destruction of spinal segments, which leads to radiculitis. Risk factors that trigger and accelerate the degenerative process in the spine are:

• Hereditary tendency to diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
• Smoking;
• Previous injuries;
• hormonal and vascular disorders;
• Overweight;
• Muscles that are too weak and do not provide the necessary support to the spine;
• Professional activities related to heavy physical work (athletes, loaders).

Stages of development of lumbar osteochondrosis

Disorders in the intervertebral discs, which lead to their degeneration and destruction, occur gradually. The entire pathological process goes through several stages, according to which the stage (or degree) of lumbar osteochondrosis is distinguished:

• The first stage (degree) is characterized by mild symptoms. Painful sensations develop on the background of irritation of the nerve endings by the nucleus pulposus, penetrating into the cracks of the fibrous ring.
• The second stage is characterized by the displacement of the upper vertebrae compared to the lower ones, due to cracks in the core and rings. This pathological process, in addition to pain during movement, causes neurological symptoms, numbness and instability of the affected area.
• The third stage is characterized by increased pain and the appearance of a herniated intervertebral disc, due to a violation of the integrity of the fibrous ring. Pain, sensory disturbances, and muscle weakness interfere with daily tasks. Due to a pinched nerve root, the functions of the urinary and intestinal systems may be disturbed.
• The fourth stage corresponds to the complete destruction of the intervertebral discs, they become fibrotic, and osteochondral growth of the vertebral bodies causes immobility of the spine in this part.

Symptoms of lumbar osteochondrosis

To get started, get advice from an expert:

• Neurologist
• Orthopedic Specialist
• Healer

The main symptom of lumbar and sacral osteochondrosis is pain. It usually worsens when sitting for long periods of time, or when twisting, bending the spine, or lifting weights. The pain may radiate to the legs, groin, and be accompanied by numbness and weakness. Mild, aching, dull pain can be followed by exacerbation attacks.

Symptoms directly depend on the stage of development of the pathology:

• In the early stages, when degenerative changes just begin to appear, symptoms are minimal.
• The intermediate stage, characterized by weakness of the fibrous ring, may already manifest as lower back pain.
• At a later stage, when fibrosis develops in the structure and osteophytes are formed, the pain becomes less pronounced, but the mobility of the spine is significantly reduced.

Lower back sensitivity may increase when touched. Shooting pains in the buttocks, thighs, and tingling sensations are signs of a pinched nerve root that occurs due to degenerative changes in the disc. Patients with lumbar osteochondrosis have difficulty bending forward, backward and sideways. Osteochondrosis can be complicated by herniated discs and narrowing of the spinal canal, accompanied by the appearance of additional symptoms.

Diagnosis of lumbar osteochondrosis

Making a diagnosis begins with collecting anamnesis, interviewing and examining the patient. Specialists will be interested in your complaints, physical activity, the presence of old injuries, bad habits, and cases of illness in close relatives. During the physical examination, the doctor palpates (feels) the lower part of the spine, looking for tender areas, inflammation, or any abnormalities. He may also check sensation and perform motor tests.

The most popular method for diagnosing lumbar osteochondrosis is an x-ray examination. The image will show the presence of osteophytes, narrowing of the disc joint space, or the so-called "vacuum" symptom, when gas bubbles are detected in the thickness of the disc. Other methods used are:

• MRI shows hydration (the degree of saturation with water), the shape of the discs, their height, which allows identifying the pinched nerve.
• CT scan, which allows you to study the condition of the tissue in detail and diagnose the disorder at an early stage.
• Provocative discography is used to determine the location of the affected disc.

Reference! MRI is a fairly accurate diagnostic method, but it cannot detect the rupture of the outer ring of the disc.

Methods of treatment for lumbar osteochondrosis

The treatment of choice for lumbar degenerative disc disease associated with chronic pain is conservative treatment with physical therapy, exercise and medications. For patients with lumbar osteochondrosis is recommended:

• A daily routine that includes adequate rest and adequate physical activity;
• Regular physical exercise aimed at strengthening muscles;
• Lifestyle adjustments, including dietary revision and weight loss.

Physiotherapy

Various physiotherapeutic techniques have been successfully used to reduce back pain. Physiotherapy promotes regenerative processes in the disc, stimulates metabolic and transport processes, prevents the formation of adhesions and further damage.

Physiotherapy methods used to treat osteochondrosis of the spine include:

• Electrical stimulation. Electrical impulses help relieve back pain and improve blood circulation in the affected spine.
• Ultrasound therapy. Ultrasound waves can penetrate deep tissue layers and help relieve inflammation and pain.
• Magnetotherapy. Magnetic fields can improve blood circulation and metabolic processes in tissues, promoting their regeneration.
• Laser therapy. Laser beams can help relieve pain, stimulate blood circulation and stimulate tissue regeneration.
• Ultraphonophoresis. This method combines ultrasound therapy with the use of drugs that penetrate deep into the tissues and help relieve inflammation and pain.

Important! Contrary to popular belief, osteochondrosis can and should be treated. Without treatment, it will be the cause of chronic pain and can lead to various problems, including internal organ dysfunction.

Drug treatment

To relieve pain that interferes with daily activities, patients are prescribed analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. According to the indications, the doctor may prescribe stronger drugs: muscle relaxants, steroids and narcotic pain relievers. Therapeutic blocks are given with local anesthetics and glucocorticoids to relieve severe pain.

Surgery

Less often, surgical intervention is used for osteochondrosis of the lumbar region. It may include disc arthroplasty or fusion of the lumbar spine (creating conditions for the fusion of two vertebrae, while pain is reduced by eliminating movement in this part of the spine).

If the movement of the spine is significantly affected, a special intervertebral spacer can be installed. For patients who do not respond to all other treatments, total lumbar disc replacement may be performed.

Treatment of lumbar osteochondrosis at home

The most effective thing you can do at home to maintain function and control pain is exercise. They will increase the flow of blood, oxygen and nutrients to the spine, helping to keep the cartilage hydrated and the spine flexible for as long as possible. In addition, during exercise, endorphins are released, which are natural pain relievers.

Frequent changes of position also bring relief. Some poses help to cope with pain attacks: kneeling, lying down, lying down. Short breaks are necessary and beneficial, but prolonged bed rest only makes things worse. It is important to stay active to prevent the disease from developing. Patients with lumbar osteochondrosis benefit from walking, swimming, cycling, yoga, Pilates, stretching exercises and strengthening muscle corsets. The following steps also help:

• Applying heat to the lower back increases blood circulation and relieves muscle spasms and tension.
• An ice pack will help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
• Massage also relaxes muscles, relieves spasms, and reduces pressure on the spine, thereby relieving pain. By increasing blood circulation in this area, metabolic processes improve and tissues are enriched with oxygen.
• Use of orthopedic mattresses and pillows. They will help maintain the correct position of the spine during sleep.
• Correct distribution of the load on the spine. When lifting heavy objects, you should use proper lifting technique to avoid straining the lumbar spine.
• Proper nutrition. Eating a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamins will help maintain healthy bones and joints.

However, if you experience pain or other symptoms, before starting treatment for osteochondrosis at home, you should consult your doctor to receive more accurate recommendations and assess the condition of the spine.

Which doctor should I contact for lumbar osteochondrosis?

If characteristic symptoms of lumbar osteochondrosis appear, it is recommended to consult a neurologist or orthopedic doctor. If you have back pain, you can also make an appointment with a therapist. He will prescribe the necessary tests to make a diagnosis and refer you to a specialist.

Treatment of lumbar osteochondrosis

Specialists from the nearest clinic in your city or other area are ready to understand the cause and help overcome the pain. Doctors usually have extensive clinical experience and master all modern methods of treating and diagnosing osteochondrosis in women and men. For the most part, the convenient location, excellent equipment and versatility of the institution are the priorities of modern medicine, which allows you to quickly undergo any examination and restore the health of the musculoskeletal system. You can make an appointment by calling the clinic that suits you, as well as on the website by filling out an online form.

Prevention of lumbar osteochondrosis

Effective methods to prevent lumbar osteochondrosis are:

• Regular physical activity. Maintain good physical shape. Strengthen your back muscles. Stretching and strengthening exercises for your back will help keep your spine healthy.
• Reduce stress on the spine: Avoid unnecessary stress on the spine. When lifting heavy objects, use proper lifting techniques.
• Posture correction: ensure proper posture. Sit and stand straight, don't slouch. Choose an orthopedic pillow and mattress to sleep in to maintain the correct position of the spine while resting. Buy quality shoes with good cushioning and support.
• Take care of back support by using an orthopedic chair if, due to the nature of your profession, you have to sit for long periods of time. Avoid being in one position for a long time. Take frequent breaks and stretch your spine.
• Watch your weight. Being overweight can put extra pressure on the spine.
• Avoid uncontrolled movements and back injuries. Be careful when playing sports or physical activity.
• Quit smoking, which can negatively affect your spine health.

By following simple recommendations, you can lead an active and fulfilling life, minimizing the risk of back pain. If you already have symptoms, pain in the lumbar spine, be sure to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.