Polysegmental osteochondrosis: causes, symptoms and treatment. What features does polysegmental osteochondrosis have? Lumbar spine

Polysegmental osteochondrosis is a fairly common and dangerous disease. Its peculiarity lies in the fact that pathological processes appear in several segments of the spine at once, sometimes even in different parts of it. If left untreated, the disease can lead to complications, and therefore it is extremely important to diagnose it in time and begin treatment measures.

So what symptoms are accompanied by polysegmental osteochondrosis and why does it develop? What treatment methods can the doctor suggest? How dangerous is this disease? The answers to these questions will be useful to many.

What is the essence of the problem?

The human spine consists of the cervical, thoracic, lumbar and sacral sections. Each of them, in turn, includes a certain number of vertebrae, which are interspersed with intervertebral discs - connective tissue, elastic structures that are a kind of shock absorbers. With age (or in the presence of other reasons), the structure of cartilage tissue changes and becomes thinner. This is how osteochondrosis begins.

The disease is very dangerous, because the pathological process in the intervertebral discs leads to subsidence of the vertebrae, which begins to pinch blood vessels and nerve roots. Polysegmental osteochondrosis is a disease in which this process affects several vertebrae at once, often even in different

The main causes of the disease

Polysegmental can develop under the influence of various factors. Here is a list of the most common possible reasons:

• Age is of great importance in this case, since during the aging process the structure of cartilage tissue changes, which can lead to its subsequent degeneration.
• Risk factors include congenital anomalies of the development of spinal elements.
• Constant uneven loads on the spine can also contribute to the development of osteochondrosis (the risk group includes workers who, due to the nature of their professions, are forced to spend long periods of time in a sitting or standing position). This also includes constant carrying of heavy objects.
• Previous injuries to the spinal column can also contribute to the development of the disease.
• Various postural disorders, including scoliosis, are also risk factors.
• Constantly being in an uncomfortable position can also lead to the appearance of a pathological process.
• Speaking about osteochondrosis, one cannot fail to mention the weakness of the muscle corset. If the back muscles are weakened, then the spine has to cope with more stress.
• It is worth mentioning nutrition, since for the normal development and functioning of the skeletal system the body needs to receive substances such as vitamin D, phosphorus, calcium and magnesium. Mineral deficiency and vitamin deficiencies can lead to disruption of the normal structure of connective tissues.

By the way, most often polysegmental osteochondrosis develops under the influence of several risk factors at once.

Types and forms of the disease

The symptoms and features of the disease largely depend on its form, namely on the location of the pathological process:

• Polysegmental osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is often accompanied by quite characteristic symptoms. Patients complain of constant headaches, weakness and dizziness. Approximately the same clinical picture develops when the thoracic segments of the spine are affected. Depending on which nerve roots were affected, the patient may experience pain in the heart area.
• Polysegmental osteochondrosis of the lumbar region often causes disorders in the functioning of the abdominal organs. Some patients complain of pain in the pelvis, which can radiate to the thigh, buttocks, and legs. Sometimes a development is observed. The same clinical picture is observed with damage to the sacral region.

It is worth noting that the diagnostic process is complicated if the pathological process covers segments of the spine in different parts. The symptoms in this case become mixed.

What symptoms are accompanied by osteochondrosis?

What signs should you look out for? Polysegmental osteochondrosis has a rather characteristic clinical picture, which, however, depends on the degree of damage, as well as the location of the pathological process. The fact is that as a result of changes in the intervertebral discs, compression of the spinal nerve roots is observed. Each of them has its own important functions, since it provides sensitivity, transmission of nerve impulses and the functioning of certain organs of the chest and abdominal cavity. Thus, polysegmental osteochondrosis affects not only the condition of the bone apparatus, it is also dangerous for other organ systems.

As for symptoms, the earliest manifestations include:

• back pain, which can spread along the nerve endings;
• changes in skin sensitivity, feeling of numbness (for example, in the tips of the fingers and toes);
• tingling, burning, goosebumps sensation;
• various disturbances in the functioning of internal organs, depending on which nerve endings were compressed;
• stiffness in movements, decreased muscle strength.

What diagnostic methods are used?

If you notice any symptoms or deterioration in your health, you should consult a specialist. Quite often, the diagnostic process can be fraught with some difficulties. For example, if the thoracic nerves are pinched, the patient can be sure that there is a heart problem. But if the pathological process occurs in the sacral spine, patients occasionally experience pain in the groin, as a result of which they first turn to a urologist.

Patients with suspected osteochondrosis (including polysegmental) are required to undergo examination by a neurologist-vertebrologist. Here they are prescribed some diagnostic procedures, including X-ray and ultrasound examinations, tomography, etc. In addition, it is important to conduct a biochemical blood test in order to check the patient for deficiencies of minerals and vitamins.

Polysegmental osteochondrosis: treatment with drugs

After making a diagnosis, the doctor will draw up a suitable treatment regimen. Quite often, therapy includes taking various medications:

• In some cases, patients are prescribed vasodilators, which help relieve spasm in the arteries and small vessels, normalize blood circulation and tissue nutrition. Such drugs are most often necessary for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine (Papaverine, Eufillin).
• Since the disease is often accompanied by pain, the doctor may recommend an effective analgesic that helps relieve discomfort (Ketanov, Dicloran).
• The course of therapy sometimes includes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which help not only to slow down the development of the inflammatory process, but also eliminate pain and relieve fever (Diclofenac, Ibuprofen).
• If osteochondrosis is associated with a deficiency of vitamins and minerals, then patients are prescribed multivitamin complexes (Vitrum).
• An important part of the treatment is taking chondroprotectors, which stimulate metabolic processes in connective tissues and promote regeneration processes (Teraflex, Rumalon, Arthra).
• Sometimes constant pain and discomfort affect the patient’s emotional state. In the most severe cases, patients are prescribed psychotropic and sedatives (Novo-Passit).

Other therapeutic methods

Medicines are just part of the treatment. In addition, other therapeutic measures are necessary. For example, methods such as phonophoresis and UHF are considered quite effective. These procedures help to quickly eliminate the inflammatory process.

After the exacerbation has been relieved, doctors recommend some maintenance procedures. For example, exercise therapy for polysegmental osteochondrosis and coxarthrosis can provide good results. Naturally, physical exercises and the degree of stress are determined individually by a physiotherapist. In addition, therapeutic massage will be useful. The purpose of these activities is to relieve muscle spasm and gradually strengthen them, thereby relieving the load on the spine.

Polysegmental osteochondrosis: how dangerous can the disease be?

Of course, this disease can be extremely dangerous. Without treatment, unpleasant and dangerous complications may develop. In particular, the possibility of transition to spondylosis, which is accompanied by progressive degeneration of vertebral bone tissue, cannot be excluded. This disease leads to regular pain attacks, decreased overall activity, limited mobility, and sometimes disability. In addition, the possibility of compression of blood vessels and nerve endings cannot be ruled out, which can impair the functioning of various organ systems.

Polysegmental osteochondrosis (PSO) is a disease of the spine in which several of its segments are simultaneously affected. In some cases of polysegmental osteochondrosis, all parts of the spine are affected at once. PSO is considered the most complex form of osteochondrosis, which is difficult to treat. The disease is accompanied by a scattering of symptoms that only worsen the patient’s condition. Problems also arise when diagnosing disorders.

In advanced situations, when treatment is not carried out or does not meet the requirements, pathology of several departments develops simultaneously.

What is polysegmental osteochondrosis? This is a simultaneous lesion of several spinal discs of different parts - cervical, lumbosacral and thoracic.

It is noteworthy that for each individual degenerative lesion of a particular department there are certain signs:

• if the cervical spine is affected, headaches occur, hearing loss occurs, and nausea and dizziness may also appear;
• the thoracic region at the beginning of the development of osteochondrosis does not show symptoms, but gradually intercostal neuralgia and severe pain begin;
• The lumbosacral region is characterized by severe pain in the lower back, which can radiate to the legs.

In advanced situations, when treatment is not carried out or does not meet the requirements, pathology of several departments develops simultaneously. The most severe case of osteochondrosis is considered to be damage to the thoracic, cervical and lumbosacral regions together.

Degenerative changes in the spine, which entail polysegmental osteochondrosis, can occur for several reasons. They are divided into external and internal provoking factors.

Internal causes of PSO are considered to be:

• congenital anomaly of the spinal structure;
• genetic predisposition;
• age-related changes.

As for external provoking factors, there are several more of them:

• injuries and injuries that negatively affected the spine;
• infectious diseases;
• acquired disorder of the structure of the spine (scoliosis);
• constant stoop;
• poor posture;
• increased physical stress on the spine;
• deficiency of vitamins and minerals;
• metabolic disorders.

When a person falls on his back, lifts heavy objects and does not change his position for a long time (the problem of sedentary work), the spine experiences serious stress, which results in microtraumas.

If such phenomena accompany a person regularly, then the vertebrae lose their original elasticity, their quality characteristics are significantly reduced, and they become flat. Shock absorption deteriorates significantly, as does the flexibility of the spine. At the same time, the roots of the spinal cord are pinched, causing the person to experience severe pain and swelling.

Symptoms

Regarding polysegmental osteochondrosis, you already know what it is and why it occurs. To prescribe treatment or simply see a doctor first, you need an appropriate signal - symptoms.

Polysegmental osteochondrosis of the spine has slightly different symptoms depending on the main area of ​​damage. As a result, PSO can be divided into three subtypes:

• cervical;
• chest;
• lumbosacral.

By triggering osteochondrosis, it turns into a polysegmental form, causing serious complications and problems.

What unites all types of polysegmental osteochondrosis of the spine is severe pain.

1. The cervical type of osteochondrosis manifests itself in the form of severe pain in the neck area, migraines, dizziness and nausea. And in case of pinching of nerve endings or blood vessels, numbness or changes in pressure (arterial) may also be observed;
2. The lumbosacral type of osteochondrosis is characterized by lumbar pain. If a person makes sudden movements or tries to lift something heavy, the pain becomes sharp and shooting. This is due to the fact that the nerve roots in the lumbar region are pinched;
3. With osteochondrosis of the thoracic region, most often a person is bothered by pain in the ribs, since the nerves are pinched and inflamed. This phenomenon has its own name - intercostal neuralgia. The rest of the symptoms are in many ways reminiscent of serious diseases - heart attack, pleurisy, etc.

If a person has a polysegmental type of osteochondrosis, then all of these symptoms merge together. Because of this, it is quite difficult to establish an accurate diagnosis. You will need to conduct a thorough diagnosis and consult with specialists.

Features of treatment

If polysegmental osteochondrosis is detected, long-term and thorough treatment is required. This problem cannot be ignored and requires constant monitoring and increased attention. By triggering osteochondrosis, it turns into a polysegmental form, provoking serious complications and problems.

Treatment involves organizing the therapy process, which consists of a set of measures. Experts recommend using:

• physiotherapy;
• therapeutic exercises;
• medicinal influence.

Each of these methods is very important because, when used in combination, it provides the highest treatment results. If you correctly combine medication, physical therapy and exercises, which are done mainly at home, the chances of recovery will be excellent.

Medicines

Treatment begins with a visit to the clinic, where you will be given an accurate diagnosis of polysegmental osteochondrosis. Next, depending on the situation and the information received, the doctor prescribes medications.

Several groups of drugs are involved in the drug treatment of polysegmental osteochondrosis of the spine.

1. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or simply NSAIDs. Their main task is to eliminate swelling and relieve the patient from pain, which is clearly manifested in polysegmental osteochondrosis of the spine. These are the first-priority medications, since it is extremely difficult for a person to live with constant pain;
2. Analgesics. The function of drugs in this group is to eliminate pain. They are used if the pain syndrome is intense and NSAIDs cannot fully help;
3. Relaxers. This is a special category of drugs for the treatment of polysegmental osteochondrosis, which is designed to relax muscles and eliminate spasms. They are prescribed by doctors in cases where a patient is diagnosed with pinched nerve roots. This phenomenon is characterized by severe pain, so muscle relaxants are necessary;
4. Dietary supplements and vitamin complexes. Allows you to normalize blood circulation, nourish tissues with missing microelements and restore metabolism;
5. Chondroprotective drugs. These are special medications, the active substances of which ensure the regeneration of cartilage tissue. Such remedies allow you to restore damaged tissue and normalize the mobility of the spine.

Auxiliary drugs are prescribed taking into account concomitant symptoms or complications associated with polysegmental osteochondrosis.

Physiotherapy

For polysegmental osteochondrosis of the spine, drug therapy is supplemented with physiotherapeutic procedures. They allow you to restore blood circulation, slow down destructive processes and relieve pain.

Basically, when treating the spine for polysegmental osteochondrosis, the following is used:

• ultrasound;
• magnetic therapy;
• acupuncture;
• hydrotherapy;
• mud treatment

Therapeutic gymnastics

Restoration of the spine will be incomplete if a set of special exercises is not used.

It is not worth conducting classes based on videos, since in each case a set of exercises may have individual characteristics. All exercises are coordinated with a specialist, since some types of loads specifically in your case can only harm the spine.

PSO is a serious disease of the spine that requires increased attention and comprehensive treatment measures.

The spine is a reliable, vulnerable part of the human skeleton. Withstands loads every day, undergoes repeated changes in position, on the contrary, it remains in one position for a long time. The spine is divided into segments: sacral, thoracic, cervical. In case of painful sensations in any department, in several at once, it is worth asserting the presence polysegmental osteochondrosis of the spine. The main task for a person is to recognize the disease in time. Treatment of the painful condition is recommended to begin early, under the supervision of the attending physician.

Polysegmental osteochondrosis of the spine is a disease that affects several segments of the spine at once. The affected vertebrae are localized in the thoracic, cervical, and sacral regions. There are types of osteochondrosis that simultaneously affect several segments in different departments. To ensure that treatment proceeds faster and your health does not deteriorate over time, it is recommended to recognize the disease in time and contact a medical institution for treatment.

Symptoms

The presence of symptoms depends on the segments of the spine affected by the disease. Let's take a closer look at which departments are affected by osteochondrosis and what is causing concern.

• Polysegmental osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is a rare type of osteochondrosis; symptoms often interfere with a person’s normal life activities. A dangerous manifestation of this type of disease is compression of nerve endings in close proximity to the brain, compression of blood vessels that deliver oxygen and nutrients to the skull. Symptoms: headaches, impaired motor activity of the sublingual muscles, which leads to impaired speech functions, increased tone of the head and neck muscles, impaired sensitivity of the skin in the area of ​​the collarbones and neck.
• Polysegmental osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine is a variety of pain symptoms. The upper segments of the department are rarely affected by the disease, often occurring in the 4th and 5th segments below. Symptoms appear: back pain when staying in one position for a long time. Often the pain is associated with pain in the heart, pain when intercostal nerves are pinched. There is numbness in the hands, pain in the joints of the hands, and impaired motor activity of the thoracic region. The pain intensifies with movement and subsides after a short rest. There are unpleasant sensations in the stomach area.
• Polysegmental osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine affects the spine more often than others. Symptoms of the disease are varied. Aching pain in the back and lower back often prevents you from moving or sitting normally. They disturb a person at rest. Acute pain appears in the legs and pelvic organs when coughing. The cause of severe pain is pinched nerves in the lumbar spine. The disease causes discomfort and is complicated by disc protrusion.
• Polysegmental osteochondrosis with disc protrusions is a complicated type of osteochondrosis, characterized by changes in the intervertebral discs. In normal condition, the discs absorb the shocks that inevitably occur when walking. With osteochondrosis, the intervertebral discs are dehydrated, become inelastic, and cease to function fully. The body of the cartilaginous disc protrudes beyond the spinal column, causing compression of the nerve endings and the spinal cord. The danger of the disease lies in its painless course until the onset of an exacerbation period. For a long time, a person does not suspect that the vertebral discs are under the influence of pathological changes. The main symptom of disc protrusion is acute pain in the lower back, spreading to the buttocks and legs. The appearance of pain is provoked by a sudden change in body position, coughing, sneezing, or hypothermia.

Symptoms of polysegmental osteochondrosis are often similar to gastritis, cystitis, and other relatively harmless diseases. If similar symptoms appear, it is recommended to undergo a thorough examination to ensure the absence or presence of osteochondrosis. It is easier to treat a disease at an early stage; the effectiveness of treatment often depends on the efficiency of measures taken to combat the disease.

Causes of polysegmental osteochondrosis

There are several reasons for the development of the disease. Every person should know the main points that increase the risk of getting the disease in order to be safe and reduce the risk of the disease.

Causes of changes in the condition of the spine:

1. Hereditary factors. Changes in spinal segments often occur in those whose ancestors suffered from osteochondrosis. The statement is based on the family characteristics of metabolism and the structure of the spine.
2. Low mobility. Staying in one position for a long time causes deformation of the intervertebral cartilaginous discs, leads to severe compression of nerve endings, and reduces the level of supply of oxygen and nutrients to cells.
3. Excess weight, improperly organized nutrition. To maintain the spine in normal condition, it is recommended to consume foods that contain substances used by the body to renew bone and cartilage tissue. With a lack of substances, processes occur that entail irreversible changes in the spinal column.
4. Constant heavy loads. The structural elements of the spine wear out.

It is impossible to completely exclude factors. With proper organization of physical activity, a varied diet, and lifestyle changes, it is possible to reduce the risk of developing polysegmental osteochondrosis.

Treatment

Treatment of polysegmental osteochondrosis takes a long time. It is important to eliminate painful manifestations and prevent recurrence. An integrated approach to treatment is the surest way to get rid of the disease. In addition to drug treatment, manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and corsets are used.

Medicines are prescribed after a complete examination and medical history. In addition to anti-inflammatory drugs, the attending physician prescribes intramuscular injections and painkillers that quickly relieve pain. Diuretics are often prescribed: they reduce the risk of muscle swelling and tissue saturation with fluid, which can cause compression of nerve endings and cause acute pain.

Folk and traditional medicine offer ways to relieve pain: acupuncture, manual therapy. The procedures have an advantage over medications - they do not have side effects and will help people with allergies to medications. Therapeutic massage and acupuncture are performed by a doctor who knows the intricacies of complex procedures. Otherwise, irreversible deterioration will occur.

If there is a change in the intervertebral cartilaginous discs or the anatomy of the spine, a diet is prescribed that restores the tissues, saturating them with the substances necessary to maintain elasticity.

Getting rid of the disease is problematic. It is important to prevent the development of the disease and start treatment on time. Then you should be sure of getting a positive result. By contacting a doctor, you will protect yourself from complications.

The article was written for general educational development. To establish an accurate diagnosis and prescribe treatment, ALWAYS consult a doctor

The spine is the main supporting structure of the human body. Throughout life, its elements experience increased loads, while with age their strength decreases on its own. The day comes when the wear of any of the intervertebral discs exceeds the limits laid down by nature, as a result of which a dagger pain pierces the person’s back - osteochondrosis develops. But what happens when the pathology has spread much further? What are the features of the course and treatment of the polysegmental type of the disease?

Description of the disease

The spine consists of alternating elements - bony vertebrae and cartilaginous intervertebral discs. The former provide strength and protection, the latter serve for shock absorption and mobility. This entire structure protects the spinal cord, which runs inside the spinal column.

The word for “bone” in ancient Greek is “osteon”, and for “cartilage” is “chondros”. The combination of these concepts gave the name to a disease that affects the musculoskeletal system.

Osteochondrosis begins its development with damage to cartilaginous elements, but in the process of its spread, the vertebrae can also be damaged.

Polysegmental osteochondrosis (below) can affect a significant number of vertebral elements, taking various forms

The situation is especially difficult when the lesion covers two or more adjacent intervertebral discs. This pathology is called polysegmental osteochondrosis.

Polysegmental osteochondrosis - video

Types of polysegmental osteochondrosis: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral and others

Symptoms of polysegmental osteochondrosis largely depend on which part of the spine it develops in:

• in the cervical;
• chest;
• lumbar;
• sacral;
• coccygeal

The sacrum and coccyx consist of vertebrae fused together, so mobility and wear of these sections are minimal. The thoracic part is slightly more susceptible to osteochondrosis. The vertebrae here are able to move, and the cartilage tissue located between them can wear out. But they are numerous, with a large share of the load transferred to the ribs and sternum.

The lumbar region is most vulnerable to osteochondrosis. It bears the responsibility of supporting a significant portion of the weight and shock loads from shaking, walking, jumping and falling.

If the integrity of the cartilage is significantly compromised, its mass can stretch the outer fibrous membrane. In this case, the intervertebral disc is compressed under the pressure of adjacent vertebrae, losing its shock-absorbing properties. This pathology is called osteochondrosis with disc protrusions. It can lead to complete rupture of the membrane and the formation of a disc herniation.

Causes and development factors

There are several reasons leading to the development of polysegmental osteochondrosis:

• age-related changes causing mineralization of cartilage tissue;
• a sedentary lifestyle, which reduces blood microcirculation in cartilage;
• increased physical activity;
• overweight;
• displacement of the body's center of gravity during pregnancy;
• hereditary tendency to osteochondrosis;
• unbalanced diet;
• bad habits;
• injuries;
• hypothermia;
• wearing high-heeled shoes;
• systematic stress;
• posture disorders.

Symptoms and signs of the disease

At the first stage of the disease, when the degenerative process is limited to cartilage tissue, the symptoms are felt weakly. The mobility of the damaged part of the spine is somewhat reduced, and unpleasant sensations are possible under increased loads. As a rule, there is no pain - the nerve fibers are not yet affected, and the cartilage is deprived of its own sensitivity. Over time, the process moves to the vertebrae, and bone outgrowths - osteophytes - are formed. Discs degrade and decrease in size. The approaching bone elements begin to compress the nearby blood vessels and nerve fibers. The inflammatory process rapidly develops in the affected area.

At this stage, the following symptoms progress:

• muscle pain;
• convulsions;
• disturbance of skin sensitivity (tingling, burning, numbness);
• a sharp decrease in mobility.

Protrusion of intervertebral discs makes these symptoms much more pronounced. In this case, even the slightest movement of the adjacent vertebrae can provoke pain - when walking, coughing, sneezing, or transferring body weight from one leg to another.

Features of symptoms are determined by which nerves and vessels were affected by osteochondrosis. For example, damage to the cervical spine provokes:

• pain:
  • head;
  • in the parietal and occipital regions;
  • in the right hypochondrium;
  • in the heart;
  • at the elbows;
  • in the shoulders;
• numbness:
  • hands;
  • shoulders;
  • shoulder blades;
• muscle tension:
  • occipital;
  • swallowing;
  • intercostal;
• other manifestations:
  • hiccups;
  • cough;
  • loss of smell;
  • dizziness.

The pathological process in the thoracic region leads to frequent piercing pain in the back, between the ribs, and also in the heart area. Lumbar polysegmental osteochondrosis provokes impairment of skin sensitivity and muscle mobility in the lower part of the body. With significant damage to the spine, the following are likely:

• severe chronic pain;
• loss of ability to move independently;
• constipation;
• incontinence;
• tissue nutritional disorders (necrosis, trophic ulcers).

Diagnosis of polysegmental osteochondrosis

During an external examination, a neurologist has the opportunity to examine the general condition of the patient’s body, joint mobility, localization and strength of pain, sensitivity of the skin, muscle tone and spasms. During a personal conversation, complaints are recorded, and the probable prerequisites that led to the development of osteochondrosis are determined:

• family diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
• type of professional activity and associated loads;
• previous injuries, infections, inflammation of the brain or spinal cord;
• presence of bad habits;
• nutritional features.

To confirm the diagnosis, determine the affected area, and identify possible complications, it is necessary to perform a hardware examination:

When carrying out differential diagnosis, the following can also be used:

• Ultrasound of soft tissues;
• cardiography;
• biochemical blood test;
• immunological analysis;
• urine test;
• taking a puncture and histological examination.

Table: differential diagnosis of polysegmental osteochondrosis

Disease	Differences from osteochondrosis	Diagnostic methods
Ankylosing spondylitis	The nearest joints are inflamed, increased: leukocyte content; blood enzyme activity	external examination; radiography; blood test.
Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract	Vomiting, diarrhea, belching, etc. are likely to occur. The tissues around the spine are not changed (unlike the affected organ).	Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity; external inspection.
Brucellosis	Antibodies to Brucella are present in the blood. The liver and spleen are enlarged.	blood test.
Slow bone development	Growth zones differ from the norm.	radiography
Coronary heart disease	The pain radiates to the left side of the chest. Heart rhythm is disturbed.	cardiogram; external inspection.
Meningitis	Symptoms of intoxication are expressed; antibodies to the pathogen (meningococcus, pneumococcus, streptococcus, etc.) are present in the blood.	external examination; blood test.
Urolithiasis	painful urination; lumps in the kidneys.	Kidney ultrasound
Spinal tumors	severe pain; exhaustion; increased ESR; in the area of ​​compaction there are altered cells.	external examination; blood test; histology.
Osteomyelitis	the puncture contains purulent bacteria; the number of leukocytes in the blood is increased; signs of intoxication are noticeable.	blood test; external examination; radiography; puncture; microscopic examination.
Ochronosis	impaired protein metabolism in connective tissue; accumulation of dark pigment in cartilage.	urine test; external examination; radiography.
Postmenopausal osteoporosis	bone substance is rarefied	radiography
Tuberculosis	antibodies to Koch's bacillus are detected in the blood; the affected area is small.	radiography; blood test.

Therapy methods

Given the critical role of the spine in protecting the central nervous system, any therapeutic measures should be applied solely based on the results of an examination by the attending physician. Complications if the diagnosis is incorrect can be dangerous to the health and life of the patient.

Drug treatment

Drugs in the treatment of polysegmental osteochondrosis play a predominantly complementary and supportive role. It goes without saying that a violation of such a dense anatomical structure as the spine can hardly be corrected by simply taking pills - it requires directed physical influence.

Nevertheless, the systematic use of certain drugs can alleviate the course of the disease and speed up the patient’s rehabilitation. Such medicines include:

• chondroprotectors (Arthra, Inoltra, Teraflex) - restore the integrity of cartilage tissue;
• B vitamins - promote the regeneration of nerve fibers;
• muscle relaxants (Mydocalm, Sirdalud) - relieve muscle spasms;
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Ketoprofen) - affect the area of ​​inflammation;
• diuretics (Veroshpiron, Diacarb, Mannitol) - reduce tissue swelling;
• local anesthetics (Lidocaine, Novocaine) - relieve acute pain.

Drugs used in pathology - gallery

Veroshpiron is an effective diuretic Diclofenac relieves inflammation Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that relieves pain Mydocalms relieves muscle spasms The action of Teraflex is aimed at restoring the integrity of cartilage tissue

Physiotherapy

The purpose of physiotherapeutic procedures is to stretch the spinal axis, relieve muscle spasm, improve blood flow and innervation (supply of organs and tissues with nerves). They are carried out when the patient is in a supine position on a semi-rigid base. It is under such conditions that the load on the spine is minimal.

To enhance the effect, it is possible to use traction (pulling) structures.

Manual therapy allows you to:

• reverse the process of displacement of intervertebral discs;
• restore blood circulation in constricted vessels;
• release pinched nerves.

The greatest effect is achieved when a professional therapist works, while unskilled hands can cause even greater harm to the patient.

Physical therapy exercises performed daily help increase spinal mobility, normalize metabolic processes, and reduce inflammation and swelling.

It should be noted that the use of exercise therapy must be started thoughtfully - excessive overexertion for the damaged area is just as dangerous as the lack of therapy.

In the treatment of polysegmental osteochondrosis, hardware methods are used:

• amplipulse therapy - exposure to low-intensity currents;
• darsonvalization - therapy with high-frequency electrical impulses;
• laser therapy - the action of low-power light rays;
• magnetic therapy - tissue stimulation with a magnetic field;
• UHF therapy - therapy with a large electromagnetic field of high frequency;
• phonophoresis - the introduction of drugs using ultrasonic vibrations;
• electrophoresis - delivery of drugs to soft tissues using electric current.

For the rehabilitation of the patient, the following can also be used:

• wearing rigid corsets;
• mud therapy;
• paraffin applications;
• spa treatment.

Video: exercises for spinal osteochondrosis

Surgical intervention

Due to the high risk of complications, spinal surgery is not advisable. About 1–3% of patients with osteochondrosis are exposed to them; all others undergo physiotherapeutic and drug treatment.

Indications for intervention are situations in which the patient’s normal life is at risk (severe disc herniation, persistent pain, loss of control over the limbs, internal organs), as well as if all previous methods of therapy have been unsuccessful.

The main types of operations used for osteochondrosis:

• expansion of the spinal canal - laminotomy;
• removal of the posterior part of the vertebra - laminectomy;
• removal of the intervertebral disc - discectomy;
• intervertebral disc replacement;
• expansion of the root canal in which the pinched nerve is located - foraminotomy;
• removal of intervertebral (facet) joints - facetectomy;
• removal of a vertebra - correctomy;

The recovery period after such operations reaches several months. Throughout its entire duration, the patient is contraindicated from heavy loads, stress, and breaks in the rehabilitation program.

Diet

Some components must be present in the diet of those suffering from osteochondrosis, as well as those wishing to avoid the disease. Such substances include:

• minerals;
• proteins;
• vitamins;
• mucopolysaccharides.

Among all the minerals, the most important for bone tissue restoration are calcium and phosphorus.. Complete sources of both are considered:

• dairy products (milk, kefir, cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream);
• meat;
• fish;
• eggs.

In addition, calcium can be obtained by eating:

• figs;
• cabbage;
• carrots;
• nuts;
• salad;
• beets;
• beans;
• lentils.

Magnesium is necessary so that calcium obtained from food is retained and bound in the bones. It is found in large quantities in green parts of plants, sprouted cereal grains, legumes (peanuts, peas, soybeans, beans), and sea fish.

Manganese takes part in regulating the growth of bones and ligaments. The sources of this microelement are:

• fermented milk products;
• bananas;
• nuts;
• egg yolk;
• various legumes.

While minerals are responsible for the strength of growing bones, protein components give them elasticity.

Table: protein content in various foods

Vitamin A is necessary for the synthesis of structural elements of cartilage and bone tissue, phosphorus binding, and regulation of growth processes. A large amount of it is found in parsley, spinach, tomatoes, carrots, savoy cabbage, dairy products, and eggs.

B vitamins stabilize metabolic processes in tissues, relieve inflammation, and participate in the regeneration of nerve fibers. To obtain them you must use:

• beef;
• mushrooms;
• yeast;
• green vegetables (broccoli, lettuce, asparagus, green beans, spinach);
• oil;
• milk;
• liver;
• kidneys;
• sprouted grain;
• fish;
• egg yolks.

Vitamin C, the source of which is fresh fruits, especially citrus fruits, normalizes oxidative reactions in cells, has an anti-inflammatory effect, and strengthens the immune system. Vitamin D, which regulates the binding processes of calcium and phosphorus in the bones, is found in:

• sea ​​fish;
• oil;
• eggs.

In addition, it is synthesized by the body under the influence of sunlight.

Mucopolysaccharides, also known as glycosaminoglycans, are complex substances consisting of protein and carbohydrate components. They are the main building material for cartilage. A large amount of these natural chondroprotectors are found in dishes such as jellied fish, fruit jellies, and jellied meat.

Photo gallery: foods that should be present in the diet

Legumes are a valuable source of magnesium and proteins Greens are an essential source of vitamins and magnesium. Milk is a valuable source of calcium, manganese, B vitamins
Fish contains a large number of important macro- and microelements Jellied meat is rich in mucopolysaccharides - natural chondroprotectors Citrus fruits contain large amounts of vitamin C Egg yolk contains a huge amount of vital substances

From the daily diet it is necessary to exclude foods that contribute to the disturbance of water-salt balance, and, as a result, the leaching of calcium from the bones:

• soda;
• hot pepper;
• coffee;
• marinades;
• semi-finished products with preservatives;
• sugar;
• salt.

The main commandments of nutrition should be:

• fractionality;
• low calorie content, promoting weight loss;
• adequate water consumption.

Folk remedies

Traditional medicine offers marsh cinquefoil as the main means of combating spinal diseases. The tincture obtained by infusing the herb for ten days in five times the volume of vodka can be used both internally (1 teaspoon three times a day) and as a rub. In the first case, the course of treatment is 8 days with the same break; in the second, therapy continues until the patient’s condition improves.

Various ointments applied to the affected area help reduce pain and inflammation.

Table: folk ointments against osteochondrosis

Name of ointment	Components	Cooking method
Honey	1 part honey; 1.5 parts black radish juice; 0.5 parts of quality vodka.	Mix. Before application, warm slightly in a water bath.
Sabelnikovaya	1 tbsp. l. cinquefoil tinctures; 1 tsp. red pepper tinctures; 1 tbsp. l. honey; 1 tube of neutral skin cream.	Mix. Keep refrigerated. Warm on palms before applying.
Egg	1 chicken egg; 1 tbsp. l. flour; 100 g butter; 1 tbsp. l. vinegar.	Mix. Leave for 2 days in a cool, dark place. Remove the film formed on the surface. Mix the remainder again.

Treatment prognosis

Timely and correct diagnosis makes the prognosis for treatment of polysegmental osteochondrosis generally favorable. Damaged intervertebral discs can be restored, if not to their original state, then at least to an acceptable condition. This allows you to restore lost flexibility and mobility, get rid of pain when moving, and improve the patient’s quality of life.

On the other hand, osteochondrosis that is not treated in time can lead to significant neurological and cardiovascular problems, including:

• fainting and loss of balance;
• violation of visual, auditory, olfactory and gustatory functions;
• headaches;
• neuralgia;
• decreased limb mobility;
• paralysis;
• disruption of internal organs;
• trophic ulcers.

Prevention

To prevent the development of polysegmental osteochondrosis, you need to:

• regularly perform gymnastic exercises, especially with a sedentary lifestyle;
• fight excess weight;
• eat a balanced diet;
• for significant physical exertion, use a special belt and lift the weight using your legs, not your back;
• control emotional state, resist stress;
• wear comfortable shoes;
• watch your posture;
• limit the entry of nicotine, alcohol, and other toxic substances into the body.

The Obstetrics and Gynecology course program is aimed at improving the knowledge and skills of practicing physicians and includes aspects related to general areas:

organization of medical care;

methods of diagnosis, treatment and prevention of gynecological diseases;

family planning;

management of pregnancy and childbirth, features of the postpartum period;

legal aspects of the profession of obstetrician-gynecologist.

In addition to the general curriculum aimed at deepening existing knowledge, MAPSC offers the opportunity to undergo thematic improvement within the framework of specialization in the following areas:

various pathologies, surgical intervention in gynecology and obstetrics;

menopausal disorders;

multiple pregnancy;

reproductive health and infertility.

It is possible to develop an individual curriculum. At the end of the course, students will have to pass an exam in the form of testing, after which they will be issued a certificate of advanced training as an obstetrician-gynecologist of the established standard.

The Modern Scientific and Technological Academy (SNTA) offers advanced training courses for obstetricians and gynecologists and training for medical workers with the selection of an individual plan from the first days of training in accordance with the recommendations of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology on the most relevant topics:

• natal surgery;
• reproductive infectology; reproductive health and infertility;
• pregnancy with various pathologies;
• diagnosis, treatment, prevention of gynecological diseases;
• methods of emergency care and surgical interventions;
• pathology of the cervix or mammary glands;
• menopausal disorders;
• family planning;
• aesthetic gynecology and much more.

Contact us and we will send you a complete list of available courses based on your requests, level of education and work experience.

• You will receive a diploma of advanced training of the established type and/or a state-standard specialist certificate on strict reporting forms.
• You are given access to a huge selection of educational programs that comply with Federal State Educational Standards and professional standards.
• You independently determine the time and intensity of training.
• Knowledge control takes the form of testing.
• The educational activities of CHTA are licensed by the Moscow Department of Education.
• Every month we train about 700 medical specialists.
• We guarantee prompt delivery of diplomas and certificates from 3 days to anywhere in the country.

Each of us has been to the gynecology department at least once in our lives and seen with our own eyes how many staff are involved. But it is worth understanding that each individual specialist has his own job task.