Degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbar spine. Degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbosacral region

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With a modern sedentary lifestyle, constant sudden movements, injuries, when the spine takes on a large load, temporary changes and deformation of cartilage tissue may occur.

Often, doctors give patients diagnoses such as spondylosis, osteochondrosis, spondyloarthrosis. The degenerative process in the intervertebral discs of the spine develops in 4 stages, and symptoms vary depending on the case.

If you encounter the symptoms listed below, then you need to see a doctor and start treatment.

What are degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbosacral spine?

Take any person: everyone has suffered from lower back pain at least once in their life. Medical statistics say: 20% constantly complain of lumbar pain, and 1-3% require surgical treatment. The lumbosacral region is the center of gravity of the body; it takes on all the loads accompanying any movement of the human body.

Sometimes these loads exceed permissible limits, temporary changes and deformation of cartilage tissue occur in the spine. Under the influence of pressure on the damaged area of the spine, salts present in the bloodstream and plasma begin to actively penetrate into its structure.

Calcification of a certain area of cartilage tissue begins. This is degenerative dystrophic changes spine.

Degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbar sacral region spine is a syndrome in which pathology of the intervertebral disc provokes the appearance of pain in the lower back.

Although there is a small genetic predisposition to the occurrence of this disease, the real reason The appearance of degenerative changes in the spine appears to be multifactorial in nature.

Degenerative changes can be caused by the natural aging process of the body or have a traumatic nature. However, they are rarely the result of extensive trauma, such as a car accident.

Most often, we will be talking about a slow traumatic process leading to damage to the intervertebral disc, which progresses over time.

The intervertebral disc itself does not have a blood supply, so if it is damaged, it cannot repair itself in the same way as other tissues in the body. Therefore, even minor damage to the disk can lead to the so-called. a “degenerative cascade” due to which the intervertebral disc begins to deteriorate.

Despite the relative severity of this disease It is very common and current estimates suggest that at least 30% of people aged 30-50 years have some degree of disc space degeneration, although not all experience pain or are diagnosed with it.

In fact, in patients over 60 years of age, some level of intervertebral disc degeneration detected by MRI is the rule rather than the exception.

Pathogenesis of the disease

The spine in the lumbar and sacral areas is subject to the greatest loads in comparison with its other parts. Therefore, degenerative and dystrophic changes in it develop more often. The incidence is high - up to 30% of the population over 35 years of age.

Degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbosacral spine are a multifactorial pathology, their development is provoked by many reasons.
The main steps of the process are the same, regardless of the reason:

malnutrition (dystrophy) of the cartilage of the discs between the vertebrae, which leads to their destruction (degeneration);
degeneration of cartilage tissue causes height changes intervertebral discs,
the appearance of protrusions in them with destruction of the fibrous membrane (hernia) or without (protrusion).

All these factors cause a violation of the proportional relationship of the vertebrae, with subsequent infringement of the spinal roots; development of inflammation in the area of degenerative changes in cartilage - cells immune system As a result of destruction processes, substances that induce the inflammatory process (prostaglandins) are produced, which cause pain, increased blood supply (hyperemia) and tissue swelling.

The pathological process lasts a long time, tends to gradually progress and chronic course. The main disease with degenerative changes in the lower back and sacrum is osteochondrosis, which can be accompanied by hernias or protrusions of discs between the vertebrae.

In the case of predominant damage to the cartilage of the vertebral joints, spondylosis develops. For degenerative changes to move into an irreversible phase, a lot of time must pass. And this time the disease plays out in a person, due to the fact that the disease does not manifest itself immediately.

Pronounced symptoms show themselves when time is lost, and the degenerative changes themselves have become large-scale and irreversible. Medical term“degenerative-dystrophic changes in the spine” summarizes several diseases.

Type of spinal degeneration

Those few who seek help from a doctor with the firm intention of curing (or at least getting rid of the pain) an illness most often receive the following diagnoses:

Spondylosis. Atypical bone growths form along the edges of the vertebrae. The disease is characterized by marginal bone growths that look like vertical spines on an x-ray. Experts consider this disease to be clinically insignificant. Doctors around the world believe that osteophytes (marginal growths) and thickening of ligaments lead to immobilization (immobilis - motionless) of the problem-prone segment of the spine;
Osteocondritis of the spine. There is a visible thinning of the intervertebral disc, which occurs without inflammation. Simply put, this is a decrease in the height of the disc located between the vertebrae. As a rule, the disease appears as a result of processes of degeneration of vertebral tissues; osteochondrosis is characterized by the absence inflammatory phenomena. During osteochondrosis, the vertebrae and articular processes come closer together, as a result of which their frequent friction is inevitable - it will inevitably lead in the future to local spondyloarthrosis;
Spondyloarthrosis. This disease is a consequence of osteochondrosis. It is arthrosis of the intervertebral joints. Speaking in simple language, spondyloarthrosis is a type of osteoarthritis.

There are many more similar diseases, the consequences of each of which boil down to disruption of the functioning of the spine, and in some cases even to the loss of a person’s ability to work.

Causes of the disease

The human body is a delicate and calibrated mechanism. It is determined by nature itself that the load on the human spine should be distributed evenly. A healthy spinal column can withstand both jumping and heavy lifting.

But all this works only when a person watches his posture and has a strong muscle corset. Modern look life – sedentary. And this leads to weakening of the muscle corset and weight gain.

Sedentary work contributes to the appearance of degenerative changes in the spine. Due to degenerative changes, intervertebral discs lose moisture, cracks and all kinds of ruptures form in them. This contributes to the appearance of intervertebral hernias.

When the load changes, the vertebrae try to increase their area, grow, and become increasingly thick, pinching the adjacent nerves.

Reasons that provoke pathological changes:

constant or sudden loads;
active sports with heavy loads;
injuries; including generic;
natural aging of the body;
inflammatory diseases of the spine;
poor nutrition.

Degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbosacral spine are usually provoked by one or both of the following two reasons:

Inflammation that occurs when proteins in the disc space, when a herniated disc forms, irritate the nerve roots.
Pathological instability of micromovements when outer shell The disc (annulus fibrosus) wears out and cannot effectively support the load on the spine, resulting in excessive mobility in the affected spinal segment.

The combination of both factors can lead to persistent lower back pain. The combination of both factors is most common in the formation of intervertebral hernia, which is a complication of the degenerative process in the intervertebral discs.

When a disc herniation occurs, mechanical compression of the neurovascular bundle passing in the spinal canal is also added, as a result of which the pain in the lower back increases significantly and becomes permanent.

Symptoms of diseases appear as degenerative-dystrophic lesions develop, but at initial stages pass without pronounced external signs. As the pathological process develops, the patient may feel stiffness and heaviness in the lower back.

But, the main symptom of all degenerative changes in the spine is pain. Pain in the lumbar region occurs during long walking and physical activity, prolonged sitting in one position, and bending. The pain syndrome is wave-like: it arises, then decreases, and disappears.

The progressive degenerative process in the intervertebral discs of the spine can lead to serious and dangerous complications. Degenerative changes develop in stages.

initial stage
The first symptom that “screams” about the presence of pathological changes in the lumbar spine is a pronounced pain syndrome in the lower back.

The pain is so noticeable that the patient is forced to limit his movements, and this significantly reduces normal level life and performance. Complaints of pain directly depend on the location of the lesion.

Second stage
Further progression of degenerative changes is characterized by the presence of:

At the second stage of the disease, radicular syndrome develops - compression of the nerve roots occurs.

Third stage
At the third stage, blood circulation is disrupted due to compression of the radicular vessel, which leads to the development of ischemia. In addition to increasing pain, the third stage is noted:

partial or temporary numbness in the lower extremities;
convulsions.

Fourth stage
Degenerative pathological processes spine that did not receive proper treatment, at the fourth stage of development are fraught with paralysis and paresis. These complications arise due to complete disruption of the blood circulation of the spinal cord.

severe mobility limitations;
“lumbago” that occurs in the lower back;
tingling and goosebumps in the limbs and buttocks.

Most patients with degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbosacral spine experience constant but tolerable pain, which intensifies from time to time for several days or more. Symptoms may vary depending on the individual case, but the main symptoms of this disease are as follows:

Pain localized in the lower back, which can radiate to the hips and legs;
Long-lasting pain in the lower back (lasting more than 6 weeks);
Low back pain is usually described as dull or aching, as opposed to burning pain in those places where it irradiates;
The pain is usually worse in a sitting position, when the discs are subjected to more pronounced stress compared to what is placed on the spine when the patient stands, walks or lies down. Prolonged standing can also increase pain, as can bending forward and lifting objects;
The pain worsens when performing certain movements, especially when bending, turning the body and lifting heavy objects;
When a disc herniates, symptoms may include numbness and tingling in the legs and difficulty walking;
With a medium or large disc herniation, the nerve root emerging from the spinal cord at the affected level may be compressed (foraminal stenosis), which, in turn, can lead to pain in the legs (sciatica);
Neurological symptoms (eg, weakness in the lower extremities) or dysfunction pelvic organs(various urination and defecation disorders) may be a consequence of the development of cauda equina syndrome. For cauda equina syndrome, immediate action to provide qualified medical care.
In addition to lower back pain, the patient may also experience leg pain, numbness, or tingling. Even in the absence of compression of the nerve root, other vertebral structures can cause pain to radiate to the buttocks and legs. The nerves become more sensitive due to inflammation caused by proteins within the disc space, causing numbness and tingling sensations. Usually in such cases the pain does not go below the knee;

In addition to degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs, the cause of pain can be:

Stenosis (narrowing) of the spinal canal and/or osteoarthritis, as well as other progressive diseases of the spine, the occurrence of which is facilitated by degeneration of the intervertebral discs;
Intervertebral hernia, a consequence of intervertebral disc degeneration.

Diagnostics

X-ray;
CT (computed tomography);
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).

The first of these methods is the most accessible, but at the same time the least informative. X-rays provide information about the location of the bones and deformities of the spine. He is able to detect the disease by late stages. CT and MRI are more modern methods.

MRI allows you to see the destruction of the disc space, dehydration of the disc, erosion of the cartilaginous end plate of the vertebral body, the presence of an intervertebral hernia, and a rupture in the annulus fibrosus. But such procedures are usually expensive.

Diagnosis of the presence of degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbosacral spine is usually carried out in three steps:

Compiling a history of the patient, including when the pain began, a description of pain and other symptoms, as well as actions, positions and treatments (if treatment was carried out) that relieve or, conversely, increase pain;
A medical examination during which the doctor checks the patient for signs of intervertebral disc degeneration. This examination may include checking the patient's range of motion, muscle strength, looking for painful areas, etc.
MRI scan, which is used to confirm suspicions of degenerative changes in the spine, as well as to identify others potential causes, which led to the emergence painful symptoms at the patient.

MRI results, s most likely indicating the presence of degenerative changes as the cause of pain symptoms:

Disk space is destroyed by more than 50%;
Initial signs of disc space degeneration, such as disc dehydration (on MRI such a disc will appear darker because it will contain less water than a healthy disc);
Rupture in the annulus fibrosus;
The presence of protrusion or intervertebral hernia;
There are signs of erosion of the cartilaginous end plate of the vertebral body. The disc does not have its own blood supply system, but, nevertheless, living cells are located inside the disc space. These cells receive nutrition by diffusion through the end plate. Pathological changes in the end plate as a result of degeneration lead to disruption of cell nutrition.

Such changes are best seen on T2-weighted images taken in the sagittal plane. Typically, the end plate appears as a black line on MRI. If this black line is not visible, it indicates endplate erosion.

Treatment of the disease

Degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbar spine, alas, are observed in large number people, and therefore the question of how to treat these pathologies is very relevant.

After all, if degenerative changes are not treated, they will progress, and the consequences can be the most dire, including disability due to the disorder. motor activity.

There are two methods of treating degenerative-dystrophic changes in the spine - conservative and surgical. The conservative treatment method includes the following actions: Limiting the mobility of the spine (carried out using orthopedic bandages or bed rest is prescribed).

Drug treatment. Drugs are used aimed at combating inflammatory and degradation processes and improving vascular patency. Sedatives and vitamin complexes group B.
Novocaine blockades.
Physiotherapy (laser therapy, diadynamic currents, inductothermy, electrophoresis).
Therapeutic methods (flat traction, underwater traction). Traction is considered the most dangerous method of treating degenerative diseases.
Physiotherapy.
Manual therapy.
Acupuncture, acupuncture.

The vast majority of cases of intervertebral disc degeneration do not require surgical intervention and are treated with conservative methods, which include special therapeutic exercises, physiotherapy, different kinds massages.

In addition, spinal traction helps very well with disc degeneration, since it increases the distance between the vertebrae, allows the intervertebral disc to receive the water and nutrients it needs, which contributes to its recovery.

Separately, it is worth highlighting percutaneous nucleotomy. This method is a borderline method between conservative and surgical treatment. This type of treatment involves a puncture biopsy, the purpose of which is to reduce the volume of the affected intervertebral disc.

This type has a large list of contraindications. Surgical intervention is required only in cases of rapidly progressive neurological symptoms of the disease, persistent long-term pain syndrome, and ineffectiveness of conservative treatment.

Treatment of diseases of the lumbar region is considered complete and promotes recovery if after treatment the following is observed:

reduction or disappearance of pain;
relieving tension in the muscles of the lumbar region, pelvis and lower limbs, muscle strengthening;
improvement of blood flow and supply of tissues with nutrients and oxygen, normalization of metabolic processes;
removal or reduction of inflammation;
normalization of lumbar sensitivity;

Non-stress spinal traction is ideal for the treatment of degenerative lesions of the intervertebral discs (spinal osteochondrosis) and its complications - spondylosis, spondyloarthrosis, intervertebral hernias and protrusions. Traction takes place while maintaining all the physiological curves of the spine and is safe, since no force is used during traction.

As the intervertebral distance increases, the nutrition of all intervertebral discs improves, their structure is restored and pain is relieved.
By using complex treatment it is possible to achieve complete recovery of the patient, and not just pain relief for a limited period.

Complication

Degenerative-dystrophic changes do not occur simultaneously, however, a person is able to feel the symptoms of the disease even at the earliest stages. First of all, nerve damage caused by pinching due to narrowed intervertebral canals makes itself felt. This position causes the nerve endings to swell and reduces their conductivity.

The patient feels this as numbness in the limbs, a feeling of fatigue in the shoulders, neck, and back. Vertebrae change their tissue growth patterns. To reduce the load, the vertebrae expands, which subsequently leads to osteochondrosis and even greater pinched nerves. People suffering from such ailments note increased fatigue, changes in gait, and constant back pain.

And if bacteria and/or fungi are added to these lesions, then arthrosis, arthritis and osteochondropathy cannot be avoided. Subsequently, these ailments transform into herniated intervertebral discs. Also, degenerative changes in muscles lead to scoliosis or even displacement of the vertebrae.

In more severe stages of the disease, ischemia, impaired blood supply, paresis, and paralysis of the limbs are observed.

Prevention

Due to the scale of the spread of degenerative-dystrophic changes in the spine, it is worth paying attention to compliance with preventive recommendations.

These rules will protect you from loss of ability to work in your youth and extend your years of activity into old age:

You should keep your back dry and warm. Humidity and hypothermia are the primary enemies of the spine.
Excessive, sudden physical activity should be avoided. Exercises aimed at developing the back muscles will also protect against degenerative changes in the spine.
When working in a static position, it is necessary to change your body position as often as possible. For office workers It is recommended to lean back in your chair every half hour. Every hour and a half you need to get up from your chair and do small passages for 5-10 minutes.

Minimum measures to prevent back diseases include:

daily strengthening of the back muscles. This can be done by doing basic physical exercises every day (for example, exercise);
when getting out of bed, “land” on both legs (this will avoid a sharp load on the spine);
Under no circumstances should you keep your back in a curved position (try to keep your back straight even while brushing your teeth);
a serious approach to choosing a mattress. Since ancient times, we have been repeating the truth that sleep is health, because during sleep the muscles of the body relax: if this process is accompanied by an uncomfortable bed that is unable to provide sufficient support to the back, this will lead to the fact that you will wake up with the syndrome "stiff back"

Aging is the main cause of changes in the spine

Degenerative changes are the process of destruction of cartilage and bone tissue spinal segments. In this case, the elasticity of the intervertebral discs is lost, weakened bone structure vertebrae and changes in the structure of the spinal column occur.

If we consider the degenerative process in the lumbar spine, then it is worth noting that the main cause is age-related changes.

Throughout life, the lumbar region bears the heaviest load, and as a result of natural aging of the body, all processes responsible for maintaining the normal state of cartilage and bone tissue slow down.

That is why, most often, after 30 years of age, people begin to experience unfavorable changes, which in medical practice are called degenerative.

Main causes

Degenerative processes gradually destroy bone and cartilage tissue of all segments of the spine. Therefore, it is very important to identify problems at an early stage of their development. But this is very difficult to do, because the first symptoms appear after certain negative changes.

But what factors provoke degenerative processes?

The most important cause of pathological changes is considered to be an incorrect lifestyle.

This may include poor nutrition, bad habits, lack of physical activity, sedentary image life and many other indicators.

Immobility leads to degenerative changes in the spine

But besides this, there are others irritating factors, which include:

Staying in an incorrect position for a long time impairs blood circulation in the spine, disrupting metabolic processes in tissues. As a result of insufficient nutrition with useful substances, cartilage and bone tissue weakens, any movements lead to microscopic injuries. It is at this moment that degenerative changes in the structure of the spine begin to develop. Large physical exercise on the lumbar spine also have a detrimental effect on normal condition spinal segments. Most often, people whose work involves heavy physical labor or professional heavyweight athletes are at risk. Injuries to the lumbar region often cause disruption of metabolic processes in tissues, which subsequently also leads to degenerative changes. Disruption of muscle tissue. The back muscles maintain the correct position of the vertebrae. Therefore, after inflammation or during a spasm, the coordinated work of muscle fibers is disrupted, which as a result negatively affects the condition of the spine. Infectious and endocrine diseases quite often affect segments of the lumbar spine.

There can be many reasons for degenerative changes in the lumbar spine. But the most important thing is to identify them in time and begin treatment.. Therefore, in order to prevent serious pathologies, it is necessary to undergo annual full examination at the doctor's.

Consequences of pathological processes

Osteochondrosis is the scourge of modern man

Any degenerative changes entail many different complications.

The most common of these is considered to be osteochondrosis. It represents a destruction of the anatomical structure of the spine, resulting in serious problems With musculoskeletal system. Indeed, with this disease, the intervertebral spaces narrow, the vertebrae become displaced, and the compression of the intervertebral discs increases.

At the second or third stage of development of osteochondrosis, patients begin to experience not only back pain, but also other neurological symptoms.

Another degenerative disease is chondrosis, which precedes osteochondrosis. As a result of the development of the disease, microcracks appear in the vertebral bodies and other segments of the spine. Most often, such a degenerative process occurs in early age or in professional weightlifting athletes. This is due to heavy loads on the lumbar region, which puts enormous pressure on the segments of the spinal column.

Intervertebral hernia is also a disease associated with degenerative processes in the spine. It is these pathological changes that destroy the membrane of the fibrous ring, which, as a result of a strong load on the lumbar region, leads to protrusion of the nucleus pulposus. This tumor compresses the nerve roots extending from the spinal cord and limits a person’s movements. After all, neurological symptoms at the first stage are expressed in pain, and then in disorders of the musculoskeletal system.

Bone growths - osteophytes

Another form of degenerative-dystrophic changes is spondylosis. This is a disease in which bone growths appear on the vertebral bodies. Ossification of the lumbar spine segments occurs slowly. This gradual increase in size bone growths accompanied by severe pain when turning, bending or other body movements.

Spondyloarthrosis is a process of degenerative-dystrophic changes in the joints of the spine. Affecting cartilage tissue, the disease spreads to adjacent areas of the bone tissue of the vertebrae, forming bone processes on them. They limit the mobility of the lumbar region, and every movement is accompanied by severe pain. Without timely treatment a person may not only have impaired functioning of the musculoskeletal system, but there is also the possibility of a disability group.

At the first stage of development, the degenerative-dystrophic process practically does not manifest itself, but its further spread is always accompanied by pain. They can be sharp, dull, aching or pulling, constant or periodic.

Diagnosis and treatment

Degenerative dystrophic changes in the lumbar region lead to the destruction of the anatomical structure of the spine. Therefore, in order to determine the specific location of the lesion, special instrumental diagnostic methods are used in the hospital.

Physical education is the main method of prevention and treatment of degenerative changes in the lumbar region

First of all, radiography is prescribed. It allows you to see on an x-ray all changes in the correct position of the segments, determine the exact location of the disease and the degree of damage.

Also in medical practice, computer or magnetic resonance imaging of the spine is used. These two methods make it possible to more accurately establish degenerative changes in the structure and determine the reasons for their development.

Treatment of degenerative changes always depends on the type of disease. But in any case, it is primarily aimed at stopping its development and eliminating pain in the affected area of the back. For this purpose, painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs can be prescribed, as well as chondroprotectors for tissue restoration.

Physiotherapeutic treatment often involves back massage. Manual therapy makes it possible to restore the correct position of the vertebrae, and physiotherapeutic procedures such as UHF, electrophoresis and phonophoresis speed up the healing process.

And the most important method of both slowing down and preventing such processes is therapeutic exercises.

Thanks to a specially developed set of exercises, patients not only improve blood circulation and improve metabolic processes, but also maintain the mobility of the spine and the elasticity of all its segments.

Degenerative changes in the lumbar spine are one of the leading social problems: spinal pathology affects not only older people, but also young and middle-aged people, that is, the working population. In addition, the diagnosis of degenerative changes in the spine, in particular displacement of the lumbar vertebrae, is a poorly studied issue in radiology.

Interest in the issue of degenerative changes in the lumbar spine is not accidental because the displacement of the vertebrae and their instability become the cause of pain and the following neurological disorders. And, taking into account the costs of treatment, diagnostics, costs of compensation for disability, disability, we can say that such a spinal disease is the third most expensive disease after oncology and cardiovascular diseases.

This significance of the problem of osteochondrosis (which is a form of degenerative changes in the spine) is due to a number of reasons. One of them is the high prevalence of morbidity: according to WHO data in 2003, up to 87% of the entire working population suffers from spinal osteochondrosis. Incidence rates in Russia are growing, and in most patients the disease is accompanied by damage to the lumbar spine. Lumbar osteochondrosis in the structure of morbidity among the adult population in our country is approximately 50%, while occupying first place (including in terms of time of disability).

What does the health of the spine depend on?

Mobility and health of the spine are possible thanks to the elasticity of the vertebral bodies, intervertebral discs and arches. Under normal static conditions, the function of absorbing vertical pressing forces (for example, the heaviness of the torso, head) is carried out intervertebral discs. In cases where the articular processes are forced to perform a supporting function that is unusual for them, anterior displacement of the vertebrae and local arthrosis develop in the true joints. With significant and increasing vertical load, neoarthrosis of the articular processes with the bases of the arches develops. Moreover, the entire spine and the muscular-ligamentous apparatus of the entire body resist the applied force, adapting to the external load. It is under the influence of cumulative microtraumas as a result of acute and chronic overload Degenerative-dystrophic changes develop in the segments of the spine and in the lumbar region as well.

What to do?

The problem of instability of the spinal motion segment, which arises under the influence of various factors. General principle therapy for exacerbations of pain syndrome of osteochondrosis - elimination of manifestations of the disease - restrictions in movement and pain itself. This includes eliminating static-dynamic unfavorable loads on the diseased part of the spine, ensuring rest, especially at the very beginning of an exacerbation. Next, you need to take care of strengthening the spinal muscles to ensure the protective function of the spinal segment, that is special gymnastics And active image life.

Pathologies of the intervertebral discs can lead to degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbosacral spine, which will be accompanied by pain and discomfort. In middle-aged people - from 30 years old - deviations occur in approximately 30% of cases, and at retirement age changes are almost inevitable. However, sometimes the disease can appear in younger people, so at any age it is important to start treatment before complications appear.

Causes of degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbosacral region

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of the disease, and they can act together or separately:

The presence of an intervertebral hernia can provoke inflammation. It appears due to irritated nerve roots.
Wear of the annulus fibrosus. The deformation leads to the fact that the spine can no longer cope with the load, especially heavy ones. As a result, pathologically unstable micromovements are formed in the spinal segment.

Most often, degenerative changes in the lumbosacral spine are the result of a disease such as intervertebral hernia.

Symptoms of the disease

A patient interview and external examination may show the following signs:

Pain stupid character, described as aching. At some stages of the disease, it may “give” to the buttocks with subsequent movement to the lower extremities.
Abnormal sensations in the legs that have different intensities: weakness in the limbs, tingling, numbness.

We previously wrote about the symptoms of radicular lumbar syndrome; we recommend reading the article.

Advice: Degenerative changes take a long time to reach an irreversible form, however, given that a long period of the disease can pass almost unnoticed by a person, you should consult a doctor immediately after the onset of symptoms.

Disorders of urination and defecation, problems with reproductive function.
The need to “disperse” in the morning before fully starting to move. Stiffness may also be felt throughout the day.
Increased temperature in the affected area of the back.
The appearance of redness and swelling in the lower back.
Asymmetry of the buttocks.

A characteristic sign of the first stage of degenerative changes in the lumbar spine is pronounced pain in the lower back, which forces movement to be limited.

Diagnosis of degenerative changes

Only a doctor can make a correct diagnosis. Diagnostics is usually carried out in three stages:

The patient's history is compiled. Information should be collected about the time of onset of pain and its nature, the presence or absence of other signs and concomitant diseases, and attempts to independently cure the disease. Positions and movements are also recognized when the pain subsides and intensifies.
Held medical checkup. It involves identifying signs of degenerative changes in the spine.
Registration of the MR picture of degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbosacral region using MRI. The study not only confirms the diagnosis, but also reveals possible reasons occurrence of the disease.

During an external examination, range of motion, muscle strength, causes of pain, etc. are checked.

Important: If the disease starts before last stage, blood circulation to the spinal cord will be disrupted, which can contribute to the formation of paralysis or paresis.

Problems detected by MRI

The study may show the following MRI signs of degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbar spine:

half or more destroyed disk space;
a rupture observed in the disc lining;
a critical decrease in the amount of water in the disc, reflecting the initial stage of the disease;
destruction of the cartilaginous end plate of the vertebra;
confirmation of the presence of an intervertebral hernia or protusion in the patient.

In contact with

Pathologies of the musculoskeletal system are currently among the most common problems among the adult population. Most often, degenerative changes in the spine are diagnosed, which with age can lead to loss of ability to work or even disability.

What is spinal dystrophy?

Many people are familiar with pain in the back, which is usually associated with fatigue, salt deposits and other various reasons. In fact, the cause should be sought in the deterioration of the properties and characteristics of the vertebrae.

Degenerative-dystrophic changes are irreversible metabolic disorders of the vertebral bone tissue, loss of their elasticity and premature aging. In advanced cases, degeneration can lead to serious violations in the functioning of internal organs.

Pathological changes are striking different departments cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral. Experts say that this is a kind of payment for a person’s ability to move upright. With proper load distribution and regular physical exercise, it is possible to significantly extend the “shelf life” of the spine.

Reasons for development

Most doctors are inclined to believe that there is one main reason that causes irreversible changes in spinal column. Its essence lies in the incorrect distribution of the load, which may be due to both professional activity, and with the usual way of life. Weakening of the back muscles is directly related to limited mobility during the day and lack of exercise.

Degenerative changes can be caused by inflammatory processes occurring in the ligaments nerve endings and muscles. Similar problems health problems arise after suffering a viral or bacterial pathology. To the reasons not inflammatory in nature include intervertebral hernia, scoliosis.

The following factors can provoke the development of degenerative-dystrophic changes:

Aging of the body (vertebrae).
Pathologies blood vessels.
Hormonal imbalances.
Bruises, injuries.
Sedentary lifestyle.
Genetic predisposition.

Degenerative changes in the spine: types

Pathology manifests itself various diseases, among which osteochondrosis is considered the main one. The disease is a dystrophic process during which the height of the intervertebral disc decreases.

In the absence of adequate therapy, degenerative changes over time lead to the development of another spinal disease - spondyloarthrosis. The disease typically affects all components of the spinal column: cartilage, ligaments, surfaces of the vertebrae. As the pathology develops, cartilage tissue gradually dies away. Inflammation occurs due to the ingress of cartilage fragments into synovial fluid. Most often the disease occurs in elderly patients, but there are cases when characteristic symptoms young people face.

Degenerative-dystrophic changes (any - cervical, thoracic, lumbosacral) can be expressed as intervertebral hernia, slipping of the vertebrae, narrowing of the canal.

Cervical problems

Constantly experiences increased stress. The development of dystrophy is caused by the structure of the vertebrae themselves and high concentration veins, arteries and nerve plexuses. Even the slightest violation leads to compression of the spinal cord and which can lead to cerebral ischemia.

Symptoms for a long time pathological condition may be missing. Over time, the patient will begin to experience the following symptoms:

Pain syndrome radiating to upper section backs.

Discomfort.

Increased fatigue.

Muscle tension.

Overload vertebral segments(two vertebrae and the disc separating them) leads to a blockade of metabolic processes, which subsequently causes more severe consequences - intervertebral hernia or protrusion. Degenerative changes cervical spine of the spine in the form of a hernia are considered the most severe complication. In an advanced stage, the formation puts pressure on the nerve roots and spinal cord.

Pathological condition of the thoracic region

Due to the limited movements of the thoracic vertebrae, dystrophy is observed quite rarely here. Most cases are due to osteochondrosis. The peculiarity of the location of the nerve roots contributes to the fact that the symptoms characteristic of the disease may be weakly expressed or completely absent.

The reasons that can provoke degenerative changes in this department include, first of all (congenital or acquired) and trauma. Also affected by the presence of hereditary pathologies associated with malnutrition of cartilage tissue and a decrease in blood flow.

When cartilage tissue becomes inflamed, symptoms develop such as It's a dull pain, increasing during movement, sensory disturbance (numbness, tingling), disruption of the functioning of internal organs.

Lumbar and sacral region

In medical practice, cases of degenerative lesions of the lumbosacral spine are most often diagnosed. The lower back bears the greatest load, which provokes the development of bone and cartilage tissue of the vertebrae and a slowdown in metabolic processes. The predisposing factor allowing the development of the disease is sedentary lifestyle life (sedentary work, lack of regular physical activity).

Degenerative changes in the lumbosacral region occur in young patients 20-25 years old. Wear of the fibrous ring leads to the onset of the inflammatory process and irritation of the nerve roots. The presence of a pathological condition can be determined by the appearance of pain, which can radiate to gluteal muscle, causing tension.

The pain can be either constant or intermittent. The main location is the lower back. Numbness of the toes also appears, and in advanced cases, the functionality of the internal organs located in the pelvis may be impaired. Similar symptoms characteristic of intervertebral hernia.

The ongoing degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbar region are irreversible. Therapy usually consists of relieving pain, relieving inflammation and preventing worsening of the condition.

Diagnostics

Having discovered symptoms of spinal column pathology, the patient should first of all seek help from a neurologist. The specialist will conduct an examination, collect anamnesis and prescribe additional examination. Most precise methods diagnostics that allow us to determine the slightest disorder are computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging.

CT and MRI belong to modern methods medical examination. Irreversible changes in the spine can be detected at a very early stage. Radiography makes it possible to diagnose the disease only at a late stage.

Treatment

It is impossible to completely cure the degenerative changes occurring in the spine. Available medical methods They only make it possible to stop the development of pathology and eliminate painful symptoms. Drug therapy involves taking painkillers from the group of analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Local preparations in the form of ointments and gels can also be used.

Chondroprotectors, which can strengthen the deteriorating vertebra and cartilage tissue, contribute to the reduction of degeneration and dystrophic processes. Medications from the group of muscle relaxants will help relieve muscle tension. It is mandatory to use B vitamins (initially in the form of injections and then in tablet form).

Brings good results and relief of symptoms physiotherapy. Exercises for each patient are selected by a rehabilitation specialist, taking into account the location of the affected area. Also, do not forget about dietary nutrition enriched with products containing gelatin.

Surgical intervention is indicated only in severe cases. After the operation, the patient faces a long and difficult rehabilitation.

Prevention

The main method of prevention is to form and strengthen the muscle corset. To do this, you need to exercise regularly. Excess weight is an unnecessary burden on the spine, which you should definitely get rid of.

In many countries, according to world statistics, diseases of the vertebral region of the human body are very common.

Degenerative dystrophic changes in the lumbosacral spine appear during the influence of certain external factors on the patient’s body. This disease is diagnosed especially often in elderly people. over 50 years old.

Understanding the reasons why dystrophic changes in the lumbosacral spine appear is an important step in the beginning proper therapy diseases. When an adverse effect appears on the human body, it ceases to cope with heavy loads that previously did not cause any trouble. Therefore they begin their destruction intervertebral cartilage.

A number of reasons that influence the destruction and changes in the structure of the spine:

Sudden physical stress on an unprepared body.
Diseases that are inflammatory in nature.
Sedentary lifestyle.
Sedentary work.
Hypothermia of the body.
Poor diet.
Constantly playing sports.
Hormonal imbalances.
Problems with the thyroid gland.
Aging of the body.
Problems with gastrointestinal tract intestinal tract.
Spinal injuries.

If the patient does not exercise much physical activity, then his body is weakened and not prepared for possible excessive stress, which leads to spinal column deformities. It is in such patients that degenerative changes in the lumbosacral spine manifest themselves very rapidly.

Such changes in the spine may be accompanied by pain syndrome, but only if:

The inflammatory process begins with the formation of an intervertebral hernia.
With a large activation of the vertebrae in the department where the growth of the cartilaginous structure began.

It is worth noting that such reasons may also be responsible for the development and degenerative changes in the thoracic spine. Only in this case, such symptoms as pain in the ribs and the presence of visible changes in organs are observed. thoracic region. How to determine the development of a disease such as degenerative spinal dystrophy

There are a number of manifestations that may indicate the development of such a disease in the human body.

The most common manifestation is pain affecting the lumbar spine. The pain usually extends lower to the patient's hips. Pain syndrome has aching painful sensations .
When the pain moves to the patient's hips and legs, tingling sensations in the legs. There is a feeling of loss of control over the limbs of the legs.
Problems with the intestinal tract and difficulty urinating begin to appear.
Reproductive function is also affected by this disease.
Upon awakening, patients feel difficulty walking.
An increase in body temperature in the localization of the body where degenerative changes in the lumbar spine began.
The skin becomes flushed, there are manifestations of swelling in the area of localization of the disease.
The spine changes and as a result appears curvature of the figure.

As soon as the disease begins its inflammation, the patient immediately feels pain syndromes in the spine. In cases where inflammation can be extinguished, patients do not notice any changes causing discomfort.

The disease has four stages of onset:

Diagnosis of the disease

When consulting a doctor, if the patient complains of pain in the vertebral area, the doctor may prescribe such diagnostic measures, How:

Visual examination by a specialist, using the palpation method to identify the source of inflammation.
An x-ray of the spine is prescribed.
Magnetic resonance imaging.

The most common method for detecting the disease is MRI. But X-ray can also tell about many visible changes in the spinal column, such as, for example:

1. Change in the height of the intervertebral discs.

2. Deformation of joints.

3. Changing the position of the spinal bodies.

4. Presence of marginal osteophytes.

And with MR, the disease can be identified by such signs as:

1. Changes in the color scheme of vertebral discs primarily due to the fact that damaged disks do not receive enough power.

2. Intervertebral cartilage is worn away.

3. Tears in the annulus fibrosus.

4. Formation of protrusions.

5. Possible formation of hernias between the vertebrae.

Upon receipt of an accurate diagnosis of the disease, therapy must be carried out immediately, since the disease is detected at severe stages of development. Failure to comply with doctor's instructions can cause paralysis and lead to disability of the patient.

Treatment of the disease

Treatment of degenerative changes in the lumbar spine should be comprehensive and contain not only medications. The treatment process will include the following procedures:

Taking medications.
Physiotherapy.
The use of alternative medicine.
Surgery may be used.

Treatment should be carried out in all directions and be comprehensive, in order to avoid surgical intervention into the human body.

Pain can be reduced by using medications available in the form of a gel or ointment. Injections of painkillers against painful spasms are also very often used. And tablets with pain-suppressing properties. It is considered highly effective to apply something cold to the area where the disease is located, this will help reduce pain.

To begin to restore the structure of vertebral tissues after damage to a degenerative dystrophic disease, medications are prescribed that can relieve tension in the muscles. Such drugs are called muscle relaxants. Thanks to the intake of chondroprotectors, the process of regeneration of connective cartilage occurs in the lumbar and thoracic regions of the spine affected by dystrophic disease. A course of taking vitamins belonging to group B plays a very important role in treatment.

These are often prescribed healing procedures with hardware effects on the patient’s body with changes in the lumbosacral and thoracic regions, such as:

1. Treatments performed in a physical therapist's office.

2. Therapeutic massage.

One of the most effective methods, but at the same time extremely dangerous when discs are damaged by such a disease, is considered to be the spinal traction procedure. This procedure should not involve any pulling loads. With this treatment manages to stretch the spinal column V correct position, and eliminate pinched nerves and blood vessels.

In order to begin to restore tissue damaged at the site of the disease such as the sacral and thoracic regions. Doctors prescribe the following procedures:

1. Treatment with medicinal leeches.

2. Apitherapy.

3. Acupuncture.

Doctors say that a very important factor influencing the outcome of positive dynamics is the beginning balanced nutrition. The specialist observing the patient will recommend following a diet. All dishes that have a jelly base are considered extremely useful products in the treatment of such a disease. It is very important to completely exclude from the patient’s diet:

· Alcohol.

· Dishes with high fat content.

· Dishes with strong spices.

The purpose of such dietary nutrition must be done by a specialist observing the patient, it is an inseparable part of the treatment.

If, after all conservative methods for treating the disease, painful spasms do not stop, then doctors prescribe a planned surgery. This operation involves the removal of a damaged disc in the thoracic or lumbar region. If signs of an intervertebral hernia are diagnosed, then surgery is inevitable.

Prevention

It is very important, when the very first signs of the disease appear, not to attribute everything to fatigue during the day or the rhythm of the patient’s life. You need to contact a specialist in time to carry out complex diagnostics condition of muscle tissue and cartilage of intervertebral discs. If you contact a specialist at an early stage of development, then treatment will be prescribed without surgical intervention, and this is extremely important for the patient. Because every operation carries a risk of other serious abnormalities in the functioning of the body as a whole. Degenerative changes in the lumbosacral spine are a treatable disease.

The development of degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbosacral region is associated with the complex effect on the cartilaginous intervertebral and bone tissues of the vertebrae of various age-related, metabolic, inflammatory, traumatic, and behavioral factors. Pathology refers to progressive changes - without adequate treatment Not only painful symptoms, but also dangerous complications are added. Therefore, it is important for patients to know whether it is possible to prevent the progression of the pathology, and how to deal with already formed changes.

general characteristics

Quite often, doctors explain the appearance of pain, lumbago in the lower back, numbness and weakness, cramps in the lower extremities, and even malfunctions of the pelvic organs with degenerative changes in the spine. To understand this relationship, let’s try to figure out what it is – dystrophic changes in the lumbar spine.

To prevent friction and provide shock absorption, the vertebrae, which protect the spinal cord from external influences and provide support and movement of the torso, are separated by layers of fibrous cartilage - intervertebral discs. Movement and flexibility depend on the condition of the vertebral processes that form the joints, which are lined with cartilage tissue.

Under the influence of various factors, intervertebral and articular cartilage lose their functionality: they dry out, crack, lose elasticity, which entails a number of physiological changes

Doctors do not consider DDSD to be a disease of the lumbar spine of a degenerative dystrophic nature. Usually cartilage is destroyed simultaneously in other parts. Degenerative processes also affect the joints of the arms and legs.

But if, with damage to the joints of the limbs we're talking about about the diseases arthritis, arthrosis, bursitis, then with the destruction of vertebral cartilage the following develops:

osteochondrosis – decreased disc height with beak-like growth of the vertebrae and the formation of vertebral hernias and protrusions;
spondylosis in the form of marginal bone growths covering the disc;
spondyloarthrosis – destruction of intervertebral joints.

The mechanism of development of such diseases is directly related to degenerative changes in the discs and joint cartilage, which become dehydrated, dry out and harden, which leads to subsidence of the fibrous ring and the proliferation of bone tissue.

Video

Video - changes in the lumbosacral region

Causes of the disease and risk group

The condition of cartilage tissue is affected various factors Therefore, it is almost impossible to single out a single cause of dystrophic changes.

Among the most common are:

Impaired nutrition of cartilage tissue. Associated with aging of the body, insufficient intake nutrients with food, metabolic disorders against the background of hormonal imbalances and endocrine diseases.
Excessive load on the spine. Risk factors – playing sports, stress on the lower back associated with professional and work activities, excess weight.
Lack of physical activity. A passive lifestyle, a long stay in an immobilized state due to other diseases, and being in weightlessness lead to dehydration of cartilage tissue and its destruction.
Spinal injuries, including birth injuries. For a young or growing organism, traumatic conditions become an impetus for the development of tissue degeneration.
Inflammatory diseases of an autoimmune, infectious, etc. nature.

The most common cause of dystrophy is still age. The MRI picture shows degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbosacral spine varying degrees observed in 80% of older people.

Symptoms and signs

The clinical picture of the pathology directly depends on the degree of destruction. Degenerative dystrophic changes develop in the lumbar spine over a fairly long period of time. Therefore, the characteristic signs of initial stages the development of pathology may be completely absent.

Cartilaginous degeneration in the initial stages of degenerative changes in the lumbosacral spine can manifest itself as aching pain, heaviness in the lower back after exercise or prolonged stay in a static position.
As the pathology progresses, the mobility of the spine becomes impaired. Except for the aching and dull ones pain symptoms periodic in nature, “lumbago” may be observed, radiating to the buttocks, legs, and sacrum area. Patients are concerned about numbness of the skin, goosebumps, cramps of the lower extremities. The development of scoliosis is observed.
At the third stage, it joins, manifested by sharp, piercing pain with concentration at the site of pathology and spread of pain along the damaged nerve. When blood vessels are compressed, soft tissue ischemia develops. There are malfunctions in the functioning of internal organs, primarily Bladder, genitals, rectum.
Symptoms and signs of degenerative-dystrophic changes in the lumbar region at advanced stage 4 are manifested by the addition of complications in the form of paresis and paralysis of the lower extremities. The mobility of the spine itself is practically absent, the pain becomes chronic.

Diagnostic methods

Doctors use various direct and differential diagnostic methods, which allow not only to identify changes, but also to exclude the presence of diseases with similar symptoms.

The examination begins with a history, external examination, palpation, and motor neurological tests.

But to assess the picture of dystrophic changes in the lumbosacral spine, such methods are not enough. Confirm preliminary diagnosis possible only after instrumental examinations:

An x-ray will show subsidence of the discs, the presence of bone growths, and displacement of the vertebrae.
CT reveals the pathological picture in more detail in a 3-dimensional image and allows one to diagnose the presence of hernias and protrusions using indirect signs.
To study the condition of soft tissues, damaged nerves and blood vessels, doctors prescribe MRI. This method is considered the most informative and safe. A significant disadvantage is the cost of such a survey.

Computer images show tears (hernias) and protrusions (protrusions) of the annulus fibrosus.

Treatment

For diseases associated with pathological changes in the spine, characterized by alternating periods of exacerbations with temporary remissions against the background of the progress of dystrophy. Therefore, for each period and stage, its own tactics for treating degenerative changes are selected:

At the beginning not acute stages and during the period of remission, preventive and behavioral treatment methods prevail.
During periods of exacerbations, conservative medication and physiotherapeutic methods come to the fore.
In advanced stages, when changes affect the nerves and spinal cord, are accompanied by loss of mobility and other complications, they resort to surgery.

Drugs

Medicines for dystrophic changes in the lumbar spine of degenerative origin are selected individually, taking into account the stage, intensity of pain, and the presence of complications.

To eliminate pain, the following may be prescribed:

Non-steroidal drugs that not only relieve pain, but also relieve inflammation in the form of Diclofenac, Movalis, Meloxicam, Ortofen, Ketanov, Ibuprofen. Most often, infusions of nonsteroidal drugs are prescribed, which accelerates the analgesic effect. During the recovery period and for mild pain, the use of external agents is allowed: ointments, gels, patches.
Analgesics: Dexamesaton, Analgin, Spazgan are administered by drip to quickly relieve pain.
Steroid drugs Betamethasone, Triamcinolone, Prednisolone in short courses in the form of injections.

In case of radicular syndrome, a paravertebral or epidural blockade is performed with the introduction of anesthetics: Lidocaine, Novacaine or combinations of drugs.

Additionally the following can be used:

muscle relaxants;
B vitamins;
chondroprotectors;
means for restoring nerve conduction;
vasodilators.

Physiotherapy

Exercise therapy is an excellent way to restore spinal mobility and strengthen the muscle corset. Adequate physical activity helps stop the progress of changes and even relieve pain during recovery period.

But you need to be careful when choosing exercises. Intense loads, jumping, twisting are prohibited, especially in cases of exacerbation and the presence of hernias.

The complex should be developed individually and include exercises on:

spinal traction;
strengthening the muscle corset both from the back and the abs.

For back diseases, other exercise therapy exercises can aggravate the condition or lead to complications.

Water aerobics, swimming, stretching on a horizontal bar, and on an inclined board are considered safe and effective for such patients.

Massage

Some patients see salvation in massage, without thinking that the mechanical effect on the vertebrae harms even a healthy spine. Only massage of soft tissues and exclusively by a professional massage therapist will give positive effect at the initial stages of pathology.

When degenerative changes in the lumbosacral spine are accompanied by the formation of an intervertebral hernia, protrusion, the spinal cord is affected, and nerves are blocked, massage, especially manual massage, is strictly prohibited.

You should not massage your back during acute period diseases. Blood flow under the influence of massage will provoke increased swelling, inflammation and pain.

Diet

There is no special diet for patients with the list of therapeutic diets. Doctors recommend that patients adhere to rational nutrition, which can provide the body with all the necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals, which in turn will contribute good nutrition cartilage tissue.

Diet is more important for people with overweight body, since obesity is one of the risk factors for the development of dystrophic changes.

Prevention

Age-related degenerative processes are quite difficult to avoid, but to prolong active life, despite age, perhaps.

Simple preventative measures will help with this.

People of all ages suffer from problems, pathologies, and pain of the spine. Instability of the vertebrae, their displacement, and changes in structure most often cause pain and neurological disorders.

One of the many such diseases of the spine includes degenerative dystrophic changes in the lumbar region.

A number of factors contribute to the development of these changes in the spine: heavy workload, sedentary, sedentary lifestyle, excess weight.

Kinds

Most common cause pain in the lumbar region is caused by degenerative dystrophic disease of the spine (osteochondrosis, spondylosis, spondyloarthrosis). It is characterized by changes in vertebral tissues, transformations of intervertebral discs, joints, bone tissue, and ligaments.

Changes in intervertebral discs due to a complex of dystrophic disorders lead to osteochondrosis. Progressive deformation occurs - a decrease in the height of the disc, separation into parts, delamination.

The most common degenerative change is lumbar osteochondrosis. This is due to heavy load for this department. The aggravation and development of this problem is facilitated by:

spinal injuries (fractures, bruises);
overload;
predisposition;
age-related changes;
vibration and much more.

Due to the functional congestion of the segments of the spinal trunk, the lumbar region most often suffers.

People suffering from osteochondrosis complain of dull, aching pain in the lumbar region, muscle spasms, aches and numbness of the limbs.

Osteochondrosis of the lumbar region requires intensive, long-term, complex treatment.

Chronic disease of the spine, which is accompanied by degenerative dystrophic disorders of the fibrous tissue of the intervertebral discs and the formation of osteophytes, is called spondylosis.

Older people get sick more often. Spondylosis can develop in any part of the spinal trunk, but the lumbar part is most often affected.

Main reasons: static overloads, microtraumas, dynamic loads, metabolic disorders, age. The pain may be in the buttock, legs, thighs.

Possible limitation of mobility. Occurs when walking, vertical static load. The pain continues until the person bends forward.

Lumbar spondylosis progresses over a long period of time and is chronic.

Spondyloarthrosis is a degenerative disease of the facet joints of the spine. Impaired function of the facet joints leads to severe lower back pain.

It can develop independently, as well as simultaneously with osteochondrosis.

The causes may be congenital anomalies of the spine, trauma, chronic microtrauma of the spine. Most often, pain occurs during the transition from a state of rest to movement.

It worsens when bending and turning the body backwards. It is localized.

Causes

Degenerative changes can occur due to injury or during the natural aging process of the body.

The cause of degenerative dystrophic disorders of the lumbar spine is either inflammation or pathological instability of micromovements. Or both together.

When an intervertebral hernia occurs, proteins in the disc space irritate the nerve roots.

And the fibrous ring loses strength and cannot withstand the load on the spine, which leads to great mobility in the affected area of the spine. All this together gives a huge constant pain in back.

A complication of degenerative dystrophic changes is the formation of intervertebral hernia. When a disc herniation appears, mechanical compression of the neurovascular bundle also increases, as a result the pain intensifies and is permanent.

Symptoms

People who have degenerative changes in the lumbar region feel constant pain, which sometimes intensifies. Symptoms may appear as the processes progress. There can be many symptoms, but most often they are:

feeling of discomfort during certain body movements (turning, bending, lifting weights);
numbness, tingling in the legs;
dull, aching pain in the lower back;
prolonged lumbar discomfort;
neurological disorders;
more discomfort when sitting than standing, walking or lying down.

Several stages of manifestation of degenerative-dystrophic changes can be distinguished:

The first stage, when a person has pronounced pain in the lower back. The discomfort is so great that a person has to limit his movements. Which makes it difficult to lead a normal life.

The second stage is characterized by limited mobility, lumbago, and tingling in the legs.

The next stage leads to poor circulation. Convulsions and numbness of the lower extremities appear.

And the most difficult stage, when paralysis or paresis occurs.

It is important to receive adequate therapy in a timely manner to avoid serious consequences.

Degenerative-dystrophic changes in sections of the spinal trunk predominantly develop as a result of chronic and acute overloads under the influence of all microtraumas.

With degenerative lesions, the vertebral bodies can move in different directions.

Treatment, diagnosis

When a patient consults a doctor with lower back pain, diagnosing such a disease is quite difficult, since it can be caused by many diseases.

Several methods are usually used:

X-ray examination.
CT scan.
Magnetic resonance imaging.
Comprehensive neurological examination.

It is undesirable to ignore pain in the lumbar region. This problem will not go away on its own. And self-medication can further worsen the condition. When prescribing treatment, the doctor must take into account all the characteristics of the patient’s body and make it comprehensive.

Treatment methods:

physiotherapeutic procedures;
drug treatment;
physiotherapy;
pool;
traditional methods;
acupuncture;
surgical treatment (rare cases);
massage.

This treatment relieves pain, strengthens the muscle corset, and removes muscle tension, increases blood supply to the spine.

On this moment it became possible to deal with the cause of such problems. Taking into account the seriousness of the consequences, treatment and diagnosis should be carried out in a timely manner, as well as by qualified specialists.