Osteochondrosis is a disease that has a chronic course, accompanied by progressive degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs. Most often, such a pathological process affects the cervical or lumbar spine. Gradually, it leads to the formation of an intervertebral hernia, followed by compression of the spinal cord, vessels passing nearby, etc. In this article we will talk about the clinical signs and treatment of osteochondrosis of the intervertebral discs in the lumbar spine.
How is osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine manifested?
The main clinical sign of this pathological process is back pain.
The intensity and nature of the pain syndrome may vary in each case. Some patients manifest acute pain, aggravated by the slightest movement and forcing them to adopt an awkward position.
However, most often (more than 70% of patients) there is a dull pain syndrome. The pain is of moderate intensity and is present all the time. Despite the fact that the patient does not have to take a forced position, it limits his physical activity. When the lumbar spine is affected, this is manifested by avoiding sharp turns, sitting down and getting up slowly.
In addition to spinal symptoms, extravertebral signs may also be seen. In the event that compression of the spinal roots occurs, the person reports pain along the path of the peripheral nerves. A frequent manifestation of pathological changes in the lumbar spine region is lumboischialgia, manifested as an attack of acute localized pain in the lumbar region and thigh, which occurs during physical exertion.
Treatment Principles
Osteochondrosis is a disease that requires complex treatment. First of all, during the period of exacerbation, it is recommended to limit motor activity in the affected area. Here we refer to bed rest.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers are prescribed to relieve pain. You can relieve muscle spasm with the help of muscle relaxants. In some cases, the treatment plan is supplemented with anticonvulsants. With compression of the spinal roots, local administration of glucocorticosteroids is possible.
In addition to drug therapy, patients with such a diagnosis are prescribed physiotherapy, therapeutic exercises and massage.
At the stage of rehabilitation treatment, balneotherapy is recommended. In 2017, scientists from a federal university published an article, the results of which indicate the effectiveness of rehabilitation treatment of patients with spinal osteochondrosis using combined balneotherapy, which includes thermal dry-air baths and spray antlers.
With severe compression of the spinal cord, the issue of surgical intervention is decided.