The focus of fatty degeneration in the vertebral body. Treatment of fatty degeneration of the bone marrow - briefly. What changes can be seen on an MRI?

Pain in the back is the most common complaint of patients visiting a traumatologist and orthopedist. Without the necessary treatment acute diseases spine go into chronic form and can significantly reduce the quality of life of the patient.

The intervertebral disc is located between the vertebral bodies and consists of three structures - the fibrous ring surrounding the intervertebral joint, the nucleus pulposus and two hyaline plates that close the disc and are adjacent to the adjacent vertebrae. The fibrinous ring is needed to keep the nucleus in the correct position, because it is a kind of shock absorber of the spinal column when walking, jumping, tilting, turning.

Intervertebral discs make up almost a third of the entire spinal column. The gelatinous nuclei contained inside it are very hydrophilic (they love water), they need it for elasticity and resilience, thanks to which they can serve as a shock absorber.

How does degeneration of the vertebrae develop?

In case of malnutrition of the spinal column, various degenerative diseases develop, they lead to a decrease in the height of the intervertebral disc and impaired movement in the spine. Gradually, the surrounding structures are also involved in the process - joints, muscles, ligaments. An important role in the pathological process is played by fatty degeneration of the vertebrae, or rather the yellow ligaments that hold the spine. As a result, the narrowing of the spinal canal begins, passing inside the vertebrae. It is this stenosis (narrowing) that causes back pain.

Due to the fact that the vertebrae do not have their own system of innervation and blood supply (it is present only in the outer plates of the fibrous ring), and also due to the fact that during life the greatest pressure is exerted on the spinal column, degenerative processes in it begin much earlier than in other large joints.

This fact is also associated with a rather young age of the main number of patients, this process gradually intensifies and leads to the fact that by the age of 60–70 more than half of the population has to some extent degeneration of the vertebrae. The gradual erasure of the boundary between the annulus fibrosus and the nucleus leads to a decrease in the height of the spine and infringement of the inner part of the intervertebral disc - the nucleus pulposus.

In addition, age-related changes also occur in blood vessels, which worsens the delivery of essential substances (protein glycans) to internal structures ligamentous apparatus of the spine. A complex of factors - the deterioration of trophism and compression of the vertebrae, leads to the fact that cracks form in the nucleus pulposus, it loses moisture and its elastic properties decrease. In addition, there is a prolapse (protrusion) of the disc into the spinal canal. This is how the degeneration of the intervertebral discs develops, and now the vertebrae are not sufficiently cushioned, any careless and sudden movements can cause pain.

However, the process is not limited to spinal disc degeneration. A decrease in the height of the spinal column contributes to the involvement of neighboring formations in the process - ligaments, facet joints, this leads to their overstrain and increased excretion of calcium from them and the development of osteoporosis. Naturally, the yellow ligaments that fill the spaces between the vertebrae and attach to the arches of the vertebrae weaken as the spine gets shorter. Yellow ligaments, or as they are also called - fatty, lose their elasticity, thicken and wrinkle. Due to the fact that there are changes in the yellow (fatty) ligaments, serious pathological processes, the disease is called fatty degeneration of the spine.

As a result of long-term studies, it has been proven that the protrusion of the disc into the intervertebral canal is not always the only cause of pain. The spinal cord, which is represented by the roots of the spinal nerves, passes through the spinal canal. When protrusion at any level of the intervertebral disc, the root is compressed and the appearance of pain will be quite logical. However, scientists have found that pain also appears due to "sterile" autoimmune inflammation of the root. The source of inflammation is a crushed vertebral disc that is in contact with the root.

The main cause of degeneration of the intervertebral discs is the deterioration in the nutrition of their cells - they are more sensitive to a decrease in the amount of oxygen, glucose and changes in the acid-base balance in the blood. This in turn initiates degenerative processes in the disk.

What causes malnutrition? There are a lot of reasons, this includes, in addition to metabolic changes, various blood diseases, such as anemia, also atherosclerotic changes, insufficient or excessive stress on the spine, and malnutrition.

Classification of degenerative-dystrophic changes in the spine

Degenerative-dystrophic changes in the vertebrae occur in several stages.

So, at stage 0, disc disorders are not yet recorded, but at the first stage it is already possible to see small gaps in the inner layers of the fibrous ring during the study.

At the transition to the second stage, the outer layers of the fibrous ring are still preserved (which still keeps the disc protrusion into the intervertebral canal), but there are back pains that can radiate to the lower limb and knee joint.

The third stage is characterized by extensive ruptures of the fibrous ring around the entire perimeter, as a result, the disc prolapses into the spinal canal, and lumbar pain intensifies. A tear in the longitudinal ligament is seen.

Treatment of pain caused by degeneration of the vertebrae

To relieve pain, surgical and conservative methods are used. They are aimed at alleviating the patient's condition, and therefore they can only be considered as palliative.

Bed rest for the period of the most intense pain. Getting up late aggravates the situation and leads to less recovery of the spine;
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs - ibuprofen, diclofenac, piroxicam, indomethacin, naproxen, ibuprol, nimesulide, diclofenac patch;
Muscle relaxants - baclofen, tizanidine, cyclobenzaprine, tolperisone, methocarbamol;
Local anesthesia - novocaine blockades are most often used;
Chondroprotectors - chondroitin sulfate, glycosamine sulfate and diacerein.
Physical therapy - dosed load on the spine, special strength exercises, warming up, electrical stimulation. Often, the complex of these effects has a more significant result than long-term pharmacological treatment.
A specially selected set of exercises, therapeutic massage, in some cases manual therapy.

As for surgical treatment of this pathology, the attitude towards it in most of the leading countries of the world is rather restrained, it is applied only to a small percentage of patients.

Among the surgical methods of treatment can be used:

Discectomy with arthrodesis;
Intradiscal administration of steroids;
intradiscal decompression;
laser therapy.

In recent years, minimally invasive methods of treatment have become widespread — electrothermal plasty of the annulus, laser disc decompression, percutaneous endoscopic removal disk. Methods for replacing the nucleus pulposus with restoring the integrity of the fibrous disc have also been used.

The bone marrow plays an important role in the formation and maintenance of immunity.

bone marrow degeneration

Where do fat cells come from

When scientists studied fat precursor cells, the first suspects were myeloid cells in the bone marrow. These cells give rise to blood cells (except lymphocytes), cells from which muscles are formed, liver cells, and can also be the progenitors of fat. Thus, perhaps due to the low "specialization" of myeloid cells in the bone marrow, their significant replacement with fat cells occurs.

Simmonds-Schien Syndrome,
Osteoporosis.

Simmonds-Schien syndrome

Another name for this disease is hypothalamic-pituitary cachexia. It most often affects older women. Initially, the pathological process occurs in the adenohypophysis and hypothalamus. Further, the secretion of hormones, including growth hormone, is disrupted. This causes degenerative-dystrophic and atrophic processes in tissues and organs and a wide variety of symptoms.

Hypoplastic and aplastic anemias

cytotoxic agents,
Sleeping pills (barbiturates),
Thyrostatics,
Sulfonamides,
Antiarrhythmic drugs.

The main manifestation of hypoplastic and aplastic anemia is thrombocytopenia, manifested by hemorrhagic syndrome. Bleeding, bleeding of the skin and mucous membranes, hemorrhagic rashes - these are the most common symptoms of this type of anemia.

Osteoporosis

Until recently, it was believed that a large amount of adipose tissue protects the body from osteoporosis, since it compensates for the missing hormones. However latest research found that this is not entirely true. Excess fat cells prevent the body from producing collagen and absorbing calcium. This leads to a weakening of the bone tissue, to degenerative processes in it, that is, to bone fragility - the main manifestation of osteoporosis.

Fatty degeneration of the bone marrow treatment

What threatens fatty degeneration of the bone marrow?

Bone marrow is a mass that occupies those spaces in the bone cavity that are not filled with bone tissue. It is the most important organ of hematopoiesis, constantly creating new blood cells that replace dead ones. The bone marrow plays an important role in the formation and maintenance of immunity.

Problems that arise in the bone marrow inevitably affect hematopoiesis, blood composition, the state of blood circulation, blood vessels, and soon the whole organism. In violation of the functions of the bone marrow in the blood, the number of leukocytes, platelets, erythrocytes decreases. The composition of the blood changes, and hence the nutrition of the organs, that is, their functions also suffer. Due to changes in the composition of the blood, the nature of its movement through the vessels also changes, which also causes many unpleasant consequences.

bone marrow degeneration

Degenerative processes sooner or later begin in any organism. Such processes also take place in the bone marrow. To a certain extent, they are normal physiological processes, of course, if they begin on time. In degenerative-dystrophic processes, normal (myeloid) bone marrow tissue is gradually replaced by connective and adipose tissue. Moreover, it is fat substitution that prevails.

With age, these processes increase and accelerate. So, by the age of 65, about half of the bone marrow in a person is replaced by adipose tissue. At an older age fat cells can take up half of its volume. Fatty degeneration of the bone marrow today is the object of attention of medical science. An earlier and more intensive process of such replacement of one tissue by another causes the development of various diseases.

Where do fat cells come from

When scientists studied fat precursor cells, the first suspects were myeloid cells in the bone marrow. These cells give rise to blood cells (except lymphocytes), cells from which muscles are formed, liver cells, and can also be the progenitors of fat. Thus, perhaps due to the low specialization of myeloid cells in the bone marrow, their significant replacement with fat cells occurs.

Pathological replacement of myeloid tissue with adipose tissue can occur due to a violation of metabolic processes in the body, bone marrow lesions with metastases, infectious processes, especially chronic ones.

What diseases are accompanied by fatty degeneration of the bone marrow?

Simmonds-Schien Syndrome,
Osteoporosis.

This is a list of diseases in which a link has been established between bone marrow degeneration and symptoms or causes of disease.

Simmonds-Schien syndrome

Hypoplastic and aplastic anemias

This group of anemias develops as a result of hematopoiesis suppression, which, in turn, is caused by the replacement of the myeloid tissue of the bone marrow with adipose tissue. The reasons for this may be toxic or infectious and viral effects.

Among the substances that negatively affect the state of the bone marrow, arsenic, benzene, and some drugs are called. This is one of the arguments that you should not self-medicate, any medicine should be prescribed by a doctor. He does this with the potential consequences in mind.

Medicines that can cause or accelerate bone marrow degeneration:

cytotoxic agents,
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, for example, acetylsalicylic acid, analgin,
Sleeping pills (barbiturates),
Blood pressure lowering agents such as captopril
Thyrostatics,
anti-tuberculosis drugs,
Sulfonamides,
Some antibiotics, in particular, chloramphenicol,
Antiarrhythmic drugs.

The main manifestation of hypoplastic and aplastic anemia is thrombocytopenia, manifested by hemorrhagic syndrome. Bleeding, bleeding of the skin and mucous membranes, hemorrhagic rashes are the most common symptoms of this type of anemia.

Osteoporosis

Until recently, it was believed that a large amount of adipose tissue protects the body from osteoporosis, since it compensates for the missing hormones. However, recent studies have shown that this is not entirely true. Excess fat cells prevent the body from producing collagen and absorbing calcium. This leads to weakening of the bone tissue, to degenerative processes in it, that is, to bone fragility - the main manifestation of osteoporosis.

Fatty degeneration of the bone marrow of the vertebral bodies and methods of its treatment

Doctors say that the state of the whole organism largely depends on the health of the spine. But a person often does not follow his own musculoskeletal system, exposing it heavy loads, leading an inactive lifestyle, sitting at the computer for a long time. As a result, degenerative-dystrophic changes in the spine occur, subsequently causing osteochondrosis.

What does fatty degeneration of the vertebral bodies mean?

Fatty degeneration of the bone marrow of the vertebral bodies is a change in tissues, accompanied by the fact that a lot of fat accumulates in the cells. At the same time, the protoplasm of the cell can be transformed into it due to the fact that fat grains get inside it. Such violations cause the death of the cell nucleus, in the future it dies.

In most cases, fatty degeneration occurs in the liver and blood vessels, but can be detected in other parts of the body. When fat replaces the cartilage of the intervertebral discs, they lose their ability to provide flexibility and springiness to the spine.

Even human bones can be replaced by fat. As a result, the vertebrae become less durable, which adversely affects the health of the spine as a whole. The vertebrae acquire excessive mobility, that is, they become unstable. These pathological abnormalities are perfectly visible to doctors during magnetic resonance imaging.

Based on the nature of pathological changes, the forms of degeneration can be different. If the spine has undergone this pathology, then there is a high probability of developing osteochondrosis.

The course of pathology is divided by specialists into several stages, each of which is characterized in its own way. Thus, the following stages of dystrophy in the vertebrae are distinguished:

First stage. On it, changes in the intervertebral disc are not yet observed, but during the examination it is already possible to see that there are small gaps inside the layers of the fibrous ring.
Second stage. At this stage, the layers of the annulus on the outside are still preserved and can prevent the disc from protruding. But the patient already feels pain in the back area, which can radiate to the leg and knee.
Third stage. Extensive ruptures of the fibrous ring occur on it, as a result of which a protrusion of the intervertebral disc occurs. Pain in the lumbar region becomes even stronger.

Reasons for the development of the disease

The main cause of fatty degeneration is poor nutrition of the vertebral cells. It is they who are most sensitive to the fact that a small amount of oxygen, glucose is supplied and changes in the acid-base balance in the blood occur. All this provokes the development of disorders in the disk.

The deterioration of the activity of the circulatory system can occur for various reasons, for example, due to anemia, spinal overload and poor nutrition. Also, deviations can develop due to age.

Changes can even occur as a result of poisoning with a substance, such as alcohol. Also, certain infectious pathologies can become the cause of fatty degeneration.

Methods of treatment of fatty degeneration of the bone marrow of the vertebral bodies

Fatty degeneration of the vertebrae is treated using both conservative and surgical methods. If the pathology appeared due to the aging of the body, then the process cannot be cured, since it is irreversible.

When unpleasant symptoms, processes of inflammation and compression of nerves, specialists prescribe the following medications:

non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs aimed at relieving inflammation and relieving pain;
muscle relaxants to eliminate spasm of muscle tissue;
blockade with novocaine in the form of injections;
chondroprotectors that help restore damaged cartilage.

In addition to drugs, patients are prescribed physiotherapeutic procedures, for example, magnetotherapy and electrophoresis. Physiotherapy exercises also help a lot, but it can only be used during remission. Good methods of treatment are massage and acupuncture.

Surgical intervention is performed only if there is a narrowing of the spinal canal. In this case, without the help of a doctor, the patient risks losing sensitivity and acquiring paralysis.

In this case, it is possible to restore bone tissue only in the first stages of the disease, but basically therapy only allows to stop the development of the pathological process.

How to treat fatty degeneration of the bone marrow

What is fatty degeneration of the vertebral bodies of the bone marrow? In simple words, this is a process that is usually associated with the aging of the body. Its essence is to replace the hematopoietic tissues of the bone marrow with fatty ones.

The replacement of healthy cells is slow and dangerous. In the future, it entails a deterioration in the condition of the vessels and a change in the composition of the blood.

Causes

Fatty degeneration of the spine is an age-related phenomenon and appears as one of the messengers of internal aging.

The tissues of all body systems change to less stable ones. The vertebral bodies of the bone marrow undergo fatty degeneration to the same extent as others. In addition to aging, the causes of fatty degeneration of the bone marrow are also hidden in past oncological or infectious diseases, in medications not controlled by a doctor.

Every person's bone marrow contains myeloid cells. They are responsible for the creation of all blood cells, muscles, liver. It is they who start the process of changing healthy cells to others. Unfortunately, changes can occur without reference to age.

Particular attention should be paid to medications that can cause this kind of "obesity" of the vertebrae.

Among them, several groups can be distinguished:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Drugs that lower blood pressure.
Antibiotics.
Heart medications.

Characteristic symptoms

Fatty degeneration of the spine has the following symptoms:

Back pain. In this case, most often discomfort is felt in the thoracic and cervical spine.
Vascular disorders, neuralgia. In turn, this entails poor coordination, asthenia and rapid onset of fatigue.
Headache that gets worse with a change in body position.
Decreased sensitivity. This symptom can be expressed in numbness of the limbs, the so-called "goosebumps" on the body. In addition, cold in the hands is possible.
Problems with motor activity. Fatty degeneration of the bone marrow limits movement. The patient requires significantly more energy to maintain the balance of his body.

Disease diagnosis

The vascular system and liver are most susceptible to fatty degeneration, but its appearance in another part of the body is not excluded. When between the vertebrae instead of cartilage appears adipose tissue, then we can safely say: the patient has the main signs of fatty degeneration of the bone marrow.

At the same time, over time, such important properties vertebrae as springiness, strength, flexibility. There is instability of the components of the spine. When diagnosing a disease, doctors are able to clearly see the pathology with the help of MRI.

Such changes may be of a different nature. Therefore, they are capable of provoking completely different forms diseases. Moreover, osteochondrosis and other related changes may occur. That is why it is important to diagnose as early as possible.

Stages of development of pathology

Doctors distinguish several periods in the development of the disease:

Stage one. At the initial stage, the destructive changes are almost invisible, but if a qualitative check is carried out, it will reveal small tears inside the layers of the fibrous ring.
Stage two. At this stage, the patient feels pain in the back, which can radiate to the leg. Although, the intervertebral disc is still in place.
Stage three. The most serious, during which extensive ruptures of the fibrous ring are observed. As a result, the disc bulges outward. There is pain in the lumbar region.

The main methods of treatment

Treatment of fatty degeneration of the vertebral bodies of the bone marrow is carried out in two ways: conservative and operative. It is important to understand that if the process occurred on the basis of aging, then it cannot be cured. In any other case, there is always hope for recovery. Consider available methods more details.

Almost always, foci of fatty degeneration in the vertebral bodies are treated with drugs (tablets, ointments, gels, injections) and exercise therapy. The task of these drugs is to remove pain syndromes and relief of other symptoms. And additional physical therapy ensures the return of the vertebrae to their place and their normal placement.

Traditionally, doctors prescribe such medications:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which are designed to relieve inflammation and eliminate pain.
Muscle relaxants that relieve muscle spasms.
Various blockades with novocaine in the form of injections;
Chondroprotectors that help restore damaged cartilage.

The prevailing majority of cases of fatty degeneration of the spine do not require surgical intervention and are cured using the same conservative methods: special gymnastics, physiotherapy, various types massages.

What is kinesitherapy is described in detail here

In addition, during the treatment of foci of fatty degeneration in the bodies of the vertebrae, spinal traction helps a lot. It increases the distance between the vertebrae, thereby opening the disk access to the water and microelements it needs. This procedure greatly speeds up the healing process.

In addition, there is a non-load-bearing traction of the spine, which is the best suited for the treatment of fatty degeneration of the spine, as well as its complications.

Traction preserves all the physiological curves of the main support of a person and does it delicately, without the use of force.

Next to the traction procedure, it is also worth mentioning the effectiveness of massage and acupuncture. Additionally, a dietitian prepares an individual diet enriched with gelatin.

For symptomatic treatment, the use of compresses is allowed. A cold bandage on the lower back will anesthetize, and a hot bandage will relax the muscles. Obviously, all these measures are part of a complex that eliminates the disease in the early stages.

Concerning surgical intervention, then it is usually resorted to if the patient has a narrowing of the spinal canal. The inflammation that began in the tissues is fraught with loss of sensitivity and mobility.

Neglect of one's health can result in paralysis. That is why the treatment of fatty degeneration of the vertebral bodies of the bone marrow at advanced stages is not complete without the urgent involvement of a surgeon. After the operation, a long rehabilitation follows with the help of the already mentioned methods.

What is not desirable to do

Diseases of the spine are a common problem that requires special attention. It often occurs with irregular physical exertion, injuries, or as a result of a sedentary lifestyle. What actions are not recommended for fatty degeneration of the spine?

First of all, physical activity is contraindicated for patients, as this can aggravate the condition of already displaced discs.
It is worth protecting yourself from injuries, since degenerative changes in the vertebrae change the state of the blood, worsen its movement.
It is not recommended to take medications that can affect the processes in the tissues of the bone marrow.

Prevention of the onset of the disease

It goes without saying that preventing any disease is much better and easier than treating it. But what to do in order to prevent the destruction of the vertebrae? There are a few basic tips that you can follow to improve your health.

Set aside a few minutes each day to do exercises that strengthen your back muscles.
Don't forget about correct posture.
Buy orthopedic mattresses and pillows for yourself and your family, which will significantly reduce the risk of getting sick.
When you wake up, don't jump out of bed. Try to stand up slowly and immediately on both legs.

Conclusion

If you thoroughly approach the issue of treating fatty degeneration of bone marrow bodies, then healing is more than real. The main thing is that the process of degradation should not be allowed to take its course, as it can provoke a number of concomitant ailments. In the first stages, it can be overcome without surgery and bone marrow transplantation. Contacting a qualified doctor with any discomfort in the back can save you from many torments. And prevention will not at all allow the symptoms of aging to appear ahead of time.

Those who did not save themselves and became a victim of an illness should unquestioningly follow what the doctors say. Physiotherapy exercises, injections, pills and reasonable physiotherapy in combination give excellent results. Operation is the last option used in emergency cases. Therefore, if foci of fatty degeneration are found in the vertebral bodies, you should not despair.

What is spinal fat degeneration?

Fatty degeneration of the vertebrae is an age-related process of replacing the hematopoietic tissue of the bone marrow with fatty tissue. In some cases, it begins earlier against the background of oncological or infectious diseases, uncontrolled drug therapy. This natural process can be complicated. These include osteoporosis, anemia, hormonal background and spinal stenosis. In most cases specific therapy is not required, but if complications threaten the patient's quality of life, surgery may be indicated.

The reasons

The main risk factor is age. Tissue degeneration begins to occur, including the bone marrow of the spine. This is natural, and if the patient is seventy, often his bone marrow is half fat.

Myeloid cells initiate the process. They are found in the bone marrow and make all the blood cells. They form muscles and internal organs, for example, the liver.

In some cases, degeneration occurs much earlier. The cause may be metabolic disorders, malignant neoplasms and metastasis, infections. Unfortunately, such changes can occur regardless of the age factor.

The accelerated process of "obesity" of the vertebrae can occur due to the intake of certain medications. These include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. This is especially bad, given that many people suffering from osteochondrosis mainly use NSAIDs - it turns out vicious circle back tissue degeneration. You can also write down pressure-reducing drugs, cardiac medications and antibiotics here.

How does it develop

When blood circulation and metabolism of the spine are disturbed, osteochondrosis does not remain. the only problem. Additional pathology there may be fatty degeneration of the bone marrow and ligaments that fix the back. The result of this pathological process may be stenosis of the spinal canal, and in the future - compression of the spinal cord. And if there is some kind of mechanical effect on the spinal cord, a whole bunch of severe neurological symptoms are inevitable. Including partial and complete paralysis.

Due to the fact that the vertebral bodies do not have independent internal nerves and blood vessels, but are fed through the endplates, fatty degeneration in them begins quickly. In addition to the vertebrae, the arteries also change. Complicated way nutrients to vertebrae and discs. This is another reason why the nucleus pulposus loses its shock-absorbing properties.

Osteochondrosis and fatty degeneration lead to the fact that the space between the vertebrae decreases. To reduce spasms of the vertebral ligaments, the body tries to get rid of calcium. This leads to a disease such as osteoporosis.

Prognosis and complications

Fatty degeneration of the bone marrow leads to poor production of blood cells. There is anemia, decreased immunity. Decreased vascular tone. The condition of not only the spine, but the entire human body is deteriorating. The tissues of the internal organs begin to "suffocate", not receiving enough oxygen.

Fatty degeneration of the vertebrae can lead to the development of diseases such as:

Simmond-Schien disease. Usually middle-aged females are affected. Hormonal changes begin, due to which a large number of body tissues suffer;
Anemia. The degeneration of the cells that create blood cells does not go unnoticed;
Osteoporosis. Too much fat in the bone prevents the body from producing collagen. Because of this, a person stops properly processing calcium, and the vertebrae become fragile.

Blood coagulates worse, and as a result, traumatic effects can be fatal. Especially severe consequences can occur if such a symptom accompanies osteoporosis - bone tissue degeneration. Bones break easily, and if a fracture occurs, non-stop internal bleeding can begin.

Treatment

Used as a conservative remedial measures, as well as operations. But unfortunately, they are by and large only symptomatic. Degeneration of vertebral tissues due to aging is an irreversible process. But if complications, inflammatory processes, nerve infringement occur, the following recommendations are suitable:

In the acute period, when attacks are constantly tormented, it is necessary to give the patient complete rest. Eliminate both mental and physical stress factors;
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Ibuprofen, Diclofenac);
Muscle relaxants to relieve painful muscle spasms (for example, Sirdalud);
Injection blockade of the spine with novocaine;
Chondroprotectors - drugs that help regenerate cartilage tissues;
Physiotherapy (Magnet, Electrophoresis, Low-frequency current, Shock wave therapy);
Physiotherapy exercises (after the acute period has ended);
Massage procedures, acupuncture.

Surgical intervention is justified only if there is a narrowing of the spinal canal. Here the work of the surgeon is necessary, because otherwise the patient will experience loss of sensitivity and mobility, and possibly paralysis.

Fatty degeneration of the vertebrae: why does the back hurt?

Pain in the back is the most common complaint of patients visiting a traumatologist and orthopedist. Without the necessary treatment, acute diseases of the spine become chronic and can significantly reduce the patient's quality of life.

How does degeneration of the vertebrae develop?

This fact is also associated with a rather young age of the main number of patients, this process gradually intensifies and leads to the fact that by the age of 60–70 more than half of the population has to some extent degeneration of the vertebrae. Gradual erasure of the boundary between the fibrous ring and the nucleus leads to a decrease in the height of the spine and infringement of the inner part of the intervertebral disc - the nucleus pulposus.

In addition, age-related changes also occur in the blood vessels, which worsens the delivery of essential substances (protein glycans) to the internal structures of the ligamentous apparatus of the spine. A complex of factors - the deterioration of trophism and compression of the vertebrae, leads to the fact that cracks form in the nucleus pulposus, it loses moisture and its elastic properties decrease. In addition, there is a prolapse (protrusion) of the disc into the spinal canal. This is how the degeneration of the intervertebral discs develops, and now the vertebrae are not sufficiently cushioned, any careless and sudden movements can cause pain.

Classification of degenerative-dystrophic changes in the spine

Degenerative-dystrophic changes in the vertebrae occur in several stages.

Treatment of pain caused by degeneration of the vertebrae

To relieve pain, surgical and conservative methods are used. They are aimed at alleviating the patient's condition, and therefore they can only be considered as palliative.

Bed rest for the period of the most intense pain. Getting up late aggravates the situation and leads to less recovery of the spine;
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs - ibuprofen, diclofenac, piroxicam, indomethacin, naproxen, ibuprol, nimesulide, diclofenac patch;
Muscle relaxants - baclofen, tizanidine, cyclobenzaprine, tolperisone, methocarbamol;
Local anesthesia - novocaine blockades are most often used;
Chondroprotectors - chondroitin sulfate, glycosamine sulfate and diacerein.
Physical therapy - a dosed load on the spine, special strength exercises, warming up, electrical stimulation. Often, the complex of these effects has a more significant result than long-term pharmacological treatment.
A specially selected set of exercises, therapeutic massage, in some cases manual therapy.

As for the surgical treatment of this pathology, the attitude towards it in most of the leading countries of the world is rather restrained, it is applied only to a small percentage of patients.

Among the surgical methods of treatment can be used:

Discectomy with arthrodesis;
Intradiscal administration of steroids;
intradiscal decompression;
laser therapy.

In recent years, minimally invasive methods of treatment have become widespread - electrothermal plastic surgery of the annulus, laser disc decompression, and percutaneous endoscopic disc removal. Methods for replacing the nucleus pulposus with restoring the integrity of the fibrous disc have also been used.

Varieties of spinal dystrophy, methods of treatment and prevention

Spinal dystrophy implies pathological changes, consisting in osteoporosis of the spinal column. At the initial stage of the disease, the natural state of the intervertebral discs is preserved.

Pain is the main symptom of the disease. Pain can occur both with inflammatory processes of the vertebrae, and with abnormal changes in the case of degenerative-dystrophic conditions.

Symptoms of the disease

Availability painful manifestations in different parts of the spinal column is a pathological change in the musculoskeletal system and can lead to disability.

For example, fatty degeneration of the bone marrow of the spine is formed with the gradual replacement of the normal consistency of the tissue with a fatty layer.

Degenerative-dystrophic conditions are an irreversible process of metabolic disorders in bone tissue. Thus, it becomes clear that pain in the back muscles, which is often attributed to fatigue or salt deposition, must be sought in the deterioration of the performance of the vertebrae themselves.

Common causes of the disease can be called:

incorrect distribution of the load on the spine;
natural aging;
hormonal changes;
injuries and bruises;
passive lifestyle;
genetic factors.

Types of abnormal changes

Deviations in work can experience different areas of the back muscles, it can be like dystrophy thoracic spine, and lumbosacral. The cervical region also experiences no less stress.

For a long time, pain may be absent, but gradually the patient begins to feel discomfort caused by pain, weakness and muscle strain.

With a sedentary lifestyle, there are often suspicions of dystrophy of the lumbar spine, but in most cases this problem is provoked by osteochondrosis.

The main component of hematopoiesis is the bone marrow, which is located directly in the bones. With pathological changes in the body, dystrophy of the bone marrow of the spine can also be observed, for example, in diseases such as osteochondrosis, spondylarthrosis, cartilaginous nodes.

In inflammatory processes or wrong exchange substances, it is possible to replace healthy bone tissue with a layer of fat. Then they talk about fatty degeneration of the vertebral bodies of the bone marrow. This can significantly worsen the composition of the blood.

Treatment Methods

An absolute cure for changes occurring in the skeletal system is impossible. Modern medical techniques involve only a temporary suspension of the development of pathology and the elimination of pain in the patient.

Therapeutic treatment consists in taking painkillers that are part of the group of analgesics, or the use of local preparations - ointments and gels.

Muscle relaxants also affect the elimination of pain. Doctors advise eating foods rich in B vitamins.

Each case is individual, so in no case should you self-medicate by purchasing medicines in pharmacies without a doctor's prescription! All drugs are prescribed only by a doctor after a diagnosis.

Therapeutic exercise perfectly strengthens the cartilaginous tissue and back muscles. Exercises are selected for each patient individually, depending on the characteristics of the disease. Nutritionists usually prescribe a special diet rich in gelatin.

In some cases, surgical intervention is used. So, with fatty degeneration of the bone marrow of the spine during movement, a severe inflammatory process can begin, which often leads to urgent surgical care, after which the patient will have a long course of rehabilitation.

How to prevent disease

The main preventive methods of maintaining the patient in the norm with dystrophy of the lumbar sacral department are decreasing excess weight and moderate but regular exercise. To do this, you need to eat right and exercise.

Physiotherapy and massage are excellent. For cervical dystrophy, apply orthopedic collars, fixing the vertebrae of the cervical region, which relax the muscles and reduce the load on them.

daily perform a set of exercises that help strengthen the muscles of the back;
always keep an even posture;
get comfortable bedding;
in order to avoid an unexpected load on the spine when waking up in the morning, get up slowly, preferably on both legs at once.

These simple behavioral techniques will help to significantly alleviate pain conditions and extend the period of normal operation of the spine.

By the way, now you can get free of charge my e-books and courses that will help you improve your health and well-being.

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Neurologist - online consultations

Fatty infiltration of the bone marrow - what is it?

No. Neurologist 19.03.2017

My son is 18 years old, since the age of 14 he has had problems with his spine, now he is in the lumbar department. 3 hernias and in the thoracic 2, everything else is a protrusion, recently it was shown on an MRI that in the lumbar section. Fatty infiltration of the bone marrow, what is it and is it dangerous or not?

Hello, Tatyana. Fatty infiltration of the bone marrow is evidence of metabolic disorders and bone formation. It is necessary to check the function of the liver, kidneys, intestines. Make an appointment.

Hello, Bone marrow is a collection of stem cells. These cells, transforming, become leukocytes - protecting the body from infections, platelets - providing blood clotting, as well as erythrocytes - providing the body with oxygen. All three types of blood cells make up the bone marrow, which controls the life processes of a living organism. In particular, it plays a crucial role, both in shaping and maintaining immune system. Due to some reasons, internal or external, the process of hematopoiesis, healthy functions bone marrow may be impaired. In particular, due to degenerative, dystrophic processes, its natural healthy tissue is gradually, little by little, replaced by connective or adipose tissue. And it is the latter, fat replacement occurs most often. Fatty degeneration of the bone marrow occurs - a change, replacement of healthy tissue, deterioration of its condition caused by large quantity fat in her cells. Why is fatty degeneration dangerous? Degenerative changes occurring in the bone marrow adversely affect the process of hematopoiesis, worsen the composition of the blood, negatively affect the blood circulation process, and affect the health of blood vessels. When the functions of this organ are disturbed, the number of leukocytes, platelets, and erythrocytes decreases. All these negative changes affect the general health of a person. The nutrition of organs and tissues is disturbed, the composition of the blood changes, it moves worse through the vessels. The functions of the whole organism are disturbed, its resistance to various diseases decreases. Now, in order to confirm or exclude this diagnosis, a consultation with a hematologist is needed, taking into account the presence of hernias, protrusion, a consultation with a neurologist and a neurosurgeon to develop management and treatment tactics

Hello, the back hurts, the pain gives stiffness to the legs, I did an MRI of the spine, here are the results. On a series of MRI tomograms of the cervical spine, weighted by T1 and T2 in two projections, the lordosis is straightened. The height of the intervertebral discs of the study area is preserved, the signals from the cervical discs in T2 are reduced. The posterior longitudinal ligament is sealed. There were no signs of hernias between the vertebral discs in the study area. Dorsal protrusions of C3-C7 discs extending into the intervertebral foramen on both sides.

Advise please: whether it is possible to do without operation whether all the same it is necessary for me? Description of the MRI image, or study: On a series of MR-tonograms in 3 projections, in T2-, T1-VI modes, mild scoliosis of the lumbosacral spine is noted. The height of the vertebral bodies is not changed. The contours of the vertebral bodies are deformed due to marginal osteophytes and the presence of moderately pronounced Schmorl's hernias. Subchondral edema of adjacent parts of the L4-S1 vertebral bodies. Stepped antelisthesis L4, L5 vertebrae.

Hello. Problems with the spine for a long time, there was a protrusion and spondylodiscitis. The situation has worsened over the past year. I can not sit for a long time, stand in one position and get up with difficulty. I had an MRI in February. Posterior diffuse disc herniation L4/L5 0.5 cm in size. In adjacent parts of the bodies L4. L5 vertebrae, in the background dystrophic changes, an unexpressed trabecular edema of the bone marrow is determined, most likely due to a reactive aseptic inflammatory process. ESR has been holding for the second year in pr.

Hello please advise. In September of this year, I had an MRI of the lumbosacral spine. I was diagnosed with rectified lordosis and s-scoliosis of the 1st degree, osteochondrosis of the lumbosacral spine, herniated discs L4-5 and L5-6. general conclusion: “Change in the mr-signal from the chondral layer of the lumbar vertebral bodies is visualized with a slight deformation of the articular surfaces. Changes in the mr signal are determined with a decrease in intensity by t-1 and t-2 WI tissue me.

Hello. I have such a problem. My little finger of my left hand was numb. I went to a neurologist and she prescribed me trental and an MRI of the cervical spine. I drank a course of trental, there was no result. and current treatment. Result is zero. Below are my MRI results. Tell me what else can I do? My finger becomes numb more every day, and my neurologist only irritates my hands. Thank you in advance.

Cervical lordosis is preserved. You.

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Lipoid degeneration of the bone marrow

Center for Speech Pathology and Neurorehabilitation of the Department of Health, Moscow

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About the authors / For correspondence

Center for Speech Pathology and Neurorehabilitation of the Moscow Health Department

Shishkova V.N. - Candidate of Medical Sciences, Senior Researcher department of neurorehabilitation.

Magnetic resonance imaging is one of the modern methods research, thanks to which it is possible to check internal tissues for the presence of various pathologies or diseases. This method makes it possible to obtain tomographic fixed images that help to carry out high-quality diagnostics of the object. Such an examination is carried out on the basis of radiated electromagnetic waves, which are displayed by tissues. Due to the fact that this type of examination has become quite common, it is increasingly being prescribed in order to prevent serious disorders or the development of pathologies.

MRI is a new diagnostic method that allows you to check the internal organs and tissues and identify various pathologies.

In this article you will learn:

When is an MRI of the bone marrow performed?

An MRI of the organ is performed if there are suspicions of the diseases indicated in the table.

Disease or pathology	Symptoms
Swelling around the vertebrae	severe pain in the spine
	numbness of the lower or upper limbs
	violation of the work and functionality of the arms, legs, torso or lower back, which is associated with damage to the vertebral sections
	disruption of the pelvic organs, as well as defecation of the body: there is a delay in urinary fluid and feces
	along with edema, vasospasm is present
	there is swelling of the tissues that are around the organ
	tissue connections harden at the site of inflammation
	bedsores form on edematous tissues after being in a supine position
Leukemia	enlarged lymph nodes
	weakness, fatigue
	blurred vision
	heat
	muscle, joint pain
	bleeding from the nose, gums
	enlarged liver,
	puffiness
Congenital disorders of the hematopoietic system	insufficient production of blood components:
	● erythrocytes - causes anemia;
	● platelets - as a result, poor blood clotting;
	● white blood cells - susceptibility to various diseases caused by infections
Osteochondrosis	pain in the neck and shoulders
	feeling of weakness in the muscles
	upper limb numbness
	movement disorders
	dizziness
	decreased visual acuity

MRI is also prescribed for various injuries of different parts of the spine.

In addition, MRI can detect in the early stages or prevent the occurrence of various disorders associated with the hematopoietic organ, showing its slightest changes.

fatty degeneration

Fatty degeneration is a process that occurs along with age-related changes. With it, the tissues that are responsible for the formation of blood are replaced by fatty tissue compounds. Other causes of this pathology may be tumor diseases, as well as the presence of infections. The course of such substitution may be accompanied by complications. Fatty degeneration of the bone marrow on MRI is detected by the presence of fat cells in the organ.

Organ reconversion

Bone marrow reconversion on MRI shows damage hematopoietic organ. On the study, you can see the pathology of adipose tissue, which is replaced by cells responsible for the formation of blood. The cause of this disorder is chronic anemia.

MRI can diagnose bone marrow reconversion

How to prepare the patient

Preparing the patient for this procedure is to adhere to the following aspects:

In the office where the study will be carried out, it is impossible to contain electrical appliances and other equipment, as its failure is possible.
Before the procedure itself, it is necessary to remove or remove objects of metallic origin from the body.
The clothes in which the patient must undergo the examination must be without metal fittings.

It is forbidden to take electrical appliances and equipment into the MRI room

In addition, two days before such an examination, it is necessary to follow a small diet that will help cleanse the intestines. To do this, it is recommended not to consume or refrain from foods that cause increased gas formation:

bakery products;
flour products;
sweets;
cabbage;
bean products;
gas drinks;
alcohol.

In addition, a patient with bone marrow edema should be reassured by MRI that the procedure is painless and non-invasive. Before the study, the doctor may recommend taking some medications, which is taken into account individually for each patient.

Two days before the diagnosis, you need to exclude flour and pastries from the menu

How to perform the procedure

The order of the procedure is to perform the following steps:

The patient wears clothes specially designed for the procedure.
Performs all preparatory measures, removing metal objects.
Then he needs to lie down on a special couch. They are fixed with special straps to ensure complete immobility of the body.
The couch moves into the tomograph, which has the shape of a cylinder.
During the procedure, when the patient is inside the tomograph, it produces various noises. With the help of electromagnetic radiation, it captures changes in the body.

If a person has an acute fear of closed spaces, the doctor may give a sedative to take so that the patient does not experience anxiety.

Such a study can last 40-90 minutes.

Does MRI use contrast?

Whether to use contrast in MRI is decided by the doctor who conducts the diagnosis. It is possible that it may be necessary to introduce this substance into the body. It is used to make soft tissue images clearer. It illuminates and visualizes the tissue structures of the patient's body.

There are different types of contrast agents that are used in MRI. But the most commonly used is the one that is administered intravenously. Its basis is iron oxide, it makes the circulatory system clearer in the pictures.

The contrast leaves the body naturally within a day.

What changes can be seen on an MRI?

MRI of the bone marrow shows:

the form of tissue swelling;
the ratio of bone joints in the vertebrae;
the ratio of accumulation of fat, as well as bone connective tissue;
an increase in the amount of water that causes inflammation;
the presence of infections;
properties of soft tissue compounds;
the exact location of the inflammation.

MRI can reveal the presence of infections in bone marrow tissues

Thanks to this method of research, it is possible to assess the condition of the spine itself, hematopoietic tissues, the size of the existing damage, as well as other pathologies. All these indicators help to make an accurate diagnosis, prescribe the most effective treatment or ways to prevent disease.

What are the causes of cerebral edema

The causes of bone marrow edema are the following factors:

ligament-related injuries;
spinal fracture;
torn tendons;
inflammation of the osteofibrous canal;
connective tissue damage.

With oncology, edema occurs in the bone marrow

Edema may be present in the presence of such diseases:

cancers;
softening of the bones;
osteoarthritis;
decrease in the rate of bleeding in the vessels;
aseptic necrosis.

Sometimes several diseases can contribute to the accumulation of fluid in tissues at once, which, progressing, give a negative clinical picture.

What are the consequences after an MRI?

Possible consequences of MRI for the body can be the following pathologies:

neurogenic systemic nephrosis;
thickening of the skin;
violation of the flexible movements of the arms and legs.

Often, negative consequences after such a procedure arise when contraindications are ignored. For example, if some metal objects are not removed, injuries may appear on the patient's body during the procedure. The presence of metal implants must be reported to the doctor in advance.

The video explains in detail about MRI of the bone marrow:

When the procedure is contraindicated

There are 2 types of contraindications:

absolute;
relative.

If there are absolute contraindications, the procedure is unacceptable. But if there are relative contraindications, it is possible under certain conditions.

Absolute contraindications:

the presence of a heart rate stimulator;
implants in the middle ear of the electronic type;
metal implants.

The replacement of healthy cells is slow and dangerous. In the future, it entails a deterioration in the condition of the vessels and a change in the composition of the blood.

Fatty degeneration of the spine is an age-related phenomenon and appears as one of the messengers of internal aging.

Fatty degeneration of the spine - one of the messengers of internal aging

Every person's bone marrow contains myeloid cells. They are responsible for the creation of all blood cells, muscles, liver. It is they who start the process of changing healthy cells to others. Unfortunately, changes can occur without reference to age.

Particular attention should be paid to medications that can cause this kind of "obesity" of the vertebrae.

Among them, several groups can be distinguished:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Drugs that lower blood pressure.
Antibiotics.
Heart medications.

Characteristic symptoms

Fatty degeneration of the spine has the following symptoms:

Pain in In this case, most often discomfort is felt in the thoracic and cervical spine.
Vascular disorders, neuralgia. In turn, this entails poor coordination, asthenia and rapid onset of fatigue.
Headache that gets worse with a change in body position.
Decreased sensitivity. This symptom can be expressed in numbness of the limbs, the so-called "goosebumps" on the body. In addition, cold in the hands is possible.
Problems with motor activity. Fatty degeneration of the bone marrow limits movement. The patient requires significantly more energy to maintain the balance of his body.

Disease diagnosis

The vascular system and liver are most susceptible to fatty degeneration, but its appearance in another part of the body is not excluded. When adipose tissue appears between the vertebrae instead of cartilage, then we can safely say: the patient has the main signs of fatty degeneration of the bone marrow.

Wherein over time, such important properties of the vertebrae as springiness, strength, and flexibility are lost. There is instability of the components of the spine. When diagnosing a disease, doctors are able to clearly see the pathology with the help of MRI.

MRI of the spine

Such changes may be of a different nature. Hence they capable of provoking completely different forms of the disease. Moreover, osteochondrosis and other related changes may occur. That is why it is important to diagnose as early as possible.

Stages of development of pathology

Doctors distinguish several periods in the development of the disease:

Stage one. At the initial stage, the destructive changes are almost invisible, but if a qualitative check is carried out, it will reveal small tears inside the layers of the fibrous ring.
Stage two. At this stage, the patient feels pain in the back, which can radiate to the leg. Although, the intervertebral disc is still in place.
Stage three. The most serious, during which extensive ruptures of the fibrous ring are observed. As a result, the disc bulges outward. There is pain in the lumbar region.

The main methods of treatment

Treatment of fatty degeneration of the vertebral bodies of the bone marrow is carried out in two ways: conservative and operative. It is important to understand that if the process occurred on the basis of aging, then it cannot be cured. In any other case, there is always hope for recovery. Let's take a closer look at the available methods.

Almost always foci of fatty degeneration in the vertebral bodies treated with drugs(tablets, ointments, gels, injections) and exercise therapy. The purpose of these drugs is to relieve pain syndromes and alleviate other symptoms. And the additional one ensures the return of the vertebrae to their place and their normal placement.

Traditionally, doctors prescribe such medications:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which are designed to relieve inflammation and eliminate pain.
Muscle relaxants that relieve muscle spasms.
Various blockades with novocaine in the form of injections;
Chondroprotectors that help restore damaged cartilage.

Spinal traction

The prevailing majority of cases of fatty degeneration of the spine do not need surgical intervention and are cured using the same conservative methods: special gymnastics, physiotherapy, and various types of massages.

In addition, there is an unloaded traction of the spine, which is the best suited for the treatment of fatty degeneration of the spine and its complications.

Traction preserves all the physiological curves of the main support of a person and does it delicately, without the use of force.

Next to the traction procedure, it is also worth mentioning about effectiveness of massage and acupuncture. Additionally, a dietitian prepares an individual diet enriched with gelatin.

As for surgical intervention, it is usually resorted to if the patient has a narrowing of the spinal canal. The inflammation that began in the tissues is fraught with loss of sensitivity and mobility.

Neglecting your health can lead to paralysis. That is why the treatment of fatty degeneration of the vertebral bodies of the bone marrow at advanced stages is not complete without the urgent involvement of a surgeon. After the operation, a long rehabilitation follows with the help of the already mentioned methods.

What is not desirable to do

With fatty degeneration of the spine, physical activity is contraindicated for patients

A common problem that requires special attention. It often occurs with irregular physical exertion, injuries, or as a result of a sedentary lifestyle. What actions are not recommended for fatty degeneration of the spine?

The answer is simple:

First of all, physical activity is contraindicated for patients, as this can aggravate the condition of already displaced discs.
It is worth protecting yourself from injuries, since degenerative changes in the vertebrae change the state of the blood, worsen its movement.
It is not recommended to take medications that can affect the processes in the tissues of the bone marrow.

Prevention of the onset of the disease

Set aside a few minutes each day to do exercises that strengthen your back muscles.
Don't forget about correct posture.
Buy orthopedic mattresses and pillows for yourself and your family, which will significantly reduce the risk of getting sick.
When you wake up, don't jump out of bed. Try to stand up slowly and immediately on both legs.

Conclusion

Those who did not save themselves and became a victim of an illness should unquestioningly follow what the doctors say. Physiotherapy exercises, injections, pills and reasonable physiotherapy in combination give excellent results. Surgery is the last option, which is used in emergency cases. Therefore, if foci of fatty degeneration are found in the vertebral bodies, you should not despair.

Arachnodactyly or Marfan's syndrome is an autosomal dominant genetic disease that affects the connective tissue. It is characterized by long arms and legs, very thin and thin fingers, and a thin physique.

Such people have cardiovascular defects, often manifested in the form of pathologies of the heart valves and aorta. The disease got its name from the name of the French pediatrician Marfan, who was the first to describe a 5-year-old patient with long thin legs and fingers.

This genetic disease occurs as a result of dysfunction of the connective tissue and is associated with a significant polymorphism of symptoms. It can be aortic aneurysm, myopia, gigantism, chest deformity, lens ectopia, kyphoscoliosis, ectasia meninges and other deviations.

Arachnodactyly does not depend on the sex of the patient. Among children, the percentage is 6.8%, and most of them are boys. The prevalence of the disease is 1:10,000 people.

Causes of mutation

Marfan syndrome is an anomaly from birth that is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. The reason for this is the mutation of the FBN1 gene, which is responsible for the synthesis of the structural protein of the extracellular matrix - fibrillin. It is he who affects the elasticity and contractile properties of the connective tissue. The lack of fibrillin and its pathology contributes to the violation of the formation of the fibrous structure, the loss of strength of the connective tissue and the inability to endure physical activity.

In 3/4 of all cases, the cause of Marfan syndrome is hereditary, and in the rest it is a primary mutation. If a father over the age of 35 has a history of this anomaly, the likelihood that the child will also suffer from the disease is very high.

The main symptoms that accompany Marfan syndrome

There are two forms of manifestation of arachnodactyly syndrome, which depend on the degree and number of affected systems and organs:

erased, having a weak expression in 1-2 systems;
expressed with mild changes in 3 systems, in one system or in 2-3 systems or more.

The severity is divided into mild, moderate and severe. According to the characteristic features of the course of the disease, stable and progressive Marfan syndrome is distinguished.

Symptoms of the disease are divided depending on the localization of the manifestation of connective tissue dysplasia. The main symptoms of the disease include:

Changes in the musculoskeletal system

Most of the symptoms of the disease are associated with a disorder skeletal system. The height of the patient is usually above average. Characterized by asthenic body type, narrow skull with bird-like features, too narrow and deformed rib cage, flat feet, arachnodactyly bones, spinal deformity, hypermobility of tendons and joints.

In addition to disproportions of the limbs and high growth, there are other failures in the functioning of the skeletal system. Most often it is scoliosis, deformed funnel chest, very flexible joints, malocclusion and high palate, deformity of the toes. Muscle, joint, and bone pain may be present. Speech disorders can also sometimes occur, osteoarthritis at an early age is possible.

visual impairment

The disease can also affect vision. Very often, patients are diagnosed with myopia and astigmatism, less often - hyperopia. The following disorders are also possible: myopia, blue sclera, aniridia, ectopia and subluxation of the lens, high degree hypermetropia, coloboma, aphakia.

In 80% of cases, there is a violation of the position of the lens, and in one or both eyes. Vision problems can occur after a weakening of the connective tissue caused by a retinal detachment. Another ophthalmic problem associated with arachnodactyly is glaucoma, which occurs at a fairly early age.

Violation of the central nervous system

One of serious consequences Marfan syndrome is dural ectasia, which is characterized by stretching and weakening of the hard lining of the brain (membrane). Pain in the back, lower back, legs, pelvis and abdomen, headache may not appear or immediately disappear as soon as a person lies on a flat and even surface on his back. In this regard, an x-ray of the lower back, magnetic resonance imaging are prescribed.

Neurological problems in arachnodactyly include degenerative disease of the intervertebral bones and discs of the back and the development of pathology of the autonomic nervous system.

Violation in the cardiovascular system

The following systems and organs fail:

heart and main vessels;
violation of intraventricular conduction;
moderate hypertrophy of the myocardium of the left ventricle;
aortic aneurysm;
aortic insufficiency;
prolapse mitral valve;
hypoplastic expansion of the pulmonary artery and aortic root, "hanging" heart;
bicuspid or dilated aortic root;
failure of intracardiac dynamics;
mitral insufficiency (myxomatous degeneration of the valves, an increase in their area and expansion of the fibrous ring, an increase in prolapse and looseness of the valves).

General clinical picture

In general terms, the signs of the disease look like this: patients have muscle weakness, reduced activity during exercise. The patient has low body weight, muscle hypotension, hypoplasia of muscles and adipose tissue, small lungs, long intestines, aneurysms of the sinuses of Valsalva.

Also, the patient may have a disorder of the pituitary gland: high growth, diabetes insipidus, acromegaloid disorders, long limbs and feet, a disorder of the autonomic system, acromegaloid disorders.

Methods used by modern medicine for diagnosing a disease

Diagnosis of Marfan's syndrome is made on the basis of hereditary factors, severe symptoms, examination of the patient, x-ray results, ophthalmological and genetic examinations, as well as echocardiography, ECG and laboratory tests.

During the diagnosis, phenotypic tests are performed to determine the ratio of the hand and height, the length of the middle finger, the Varga index, the thumb test for arachnodactyly, and the coverage of the wrist.

With the help of ECG and ECHO CG, heart rhythm disturbance, myocardial hypertrophy, mitral valve prolapse, chord rupture and left ventricular enlargement are determined.

With the help of radiography, you can see the expanded arches of the root and aorta, the large size of the heart. x-ray hip joints shows protrusion of the acetabulum.

MRI of the spine allows you to determine the ectasia of the hard shell of the brain, dilatation and aneurysms of the aorta will show CT and MRI of the heart and blood vessels.

With the help of biomicroscopy and ophthalmoscopy, ectopia of the lens can be detected. Gene identification will show mutations in the FBN1 gene.

Treatment of arachnodactyly in all its manifestations

To date, there is no cure for Marfan syndrome as such. But in recent years, the life expectancy of patients with Marfan syndrome has become much higher. Methods of treatment are determined as the disease develops, and ways to prevent its occurrence are especially important. Therefore, the main course of treatment is aimed at preventive measures on the development of the disease and subsequent complications of the heart and blood vessels. This also applies to young children - all actions should be aimed at slowing down the development of aortic aneurysms.

The course of treatment of the disease includes conservative and surgical technique corrections cardiovascular disorders, lesions of the organs of vision and skeleton. If the aorta is no more than 4 cm in diameter, the patient is prescribed calcium antagonists, ACE inhibitors, or β-blockers.

Surgical intervention should be performed if the diameter of the aorta is more than 5 cm, mitral valve prolapse, valvular insufficiency, and aortic dissection are present. In some cases, mitral valve replacement is performed.

In case of vision problems, patients are prescribed its correction by selecting glasses and contact lenses. In especially severe cases, vision is corrected by laser or surgical intervention.

AT childhood in case of skeletal disorders, surgical stabilization of the spine, hip replacement and thoracoplasty are performed.

The course of treatment also includes the intake of vitamins, metabolic and pathogenetic therapy with the normalization of collagen. An important component is the work of a physiotherapist, who in the treatment of Marfan's syndrome includes electric shock (TENS-therapy), as well as ultrasound and other methods to improve the functioning of the skeleton, affecting the growth and length of the arms, life expectancy.

Video: What is the danger of excessive joint flexibility

Damage to the meniscus of the knee joint: symptoms (signs and photos), treatment, causes

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Damage to the meniscus in the knee joint is a very common disease. Athletes and people working in physical work are susceptible to this disease.

A meniscus tear is a tear in cartilage. Knee injuries are divided into several types. One of the groups is degenerative changes. The likelihood of injury to the lateral meniscus increases if chronic damage to the meniscus, such as senile arthrosis or hereditary diseases, has not been cured.

Arthrosis can last more than one year. Sometimes the pathology enters a chronic phase, so its symptoms appear in old age.

Unfortunately, even a careless step can cause injury to the anterior meniscus. Treatment of such damage is quite long. For these reasons, senile arthrosis is very dangerous for healthy joints and ligaments of the knee.

Therefore, you need to be regularly examined by a doctor and, if necessary, do all the necessary procedures. After all, arthrosis destroys the joint, which disrupts the function of the knee, and the leg becomes less mobile.

In cases where the treatment of arthrosis was untimely or incorrect, people become disabled. The knee joint is a complex structure, so treating damage to the medial meniscus is quite difficult.

The knee is largest joint, which, despite being prone to numerous injuries, can recover.

As a rule, the treatment of knee injuries is conservative and complex. Surgical intervention is necessary if traditional medicine, physiotherapy and other therapies have proven to be ineffective.

The structure, functioning of the knee joint and the location of the anterior meniscus

The knee joint is located between the tibia and femur. In front of the knee is a cup. This joint is made up of menisci, cartilage, and cruciate ligaments.

There are anterior and posterior ligaments in the knee that perform the following functions:

opposition to the displacement of the ankle forward or backward beyond the established limits;
stabilization of the entire joint;
retention of the bony prominence.

The surface of the knee is covered with cartilage, and between the bones are the menisci, which are also called falciform cartilages.

There are two types of menisci: external (lateral) and internal (medial). The menisci are layers of cartilage located in the middle of the knee. Their main tasks are cushioning and stabilization of the joint.

Damage to the inner meniscus of the knee significantly complicates the motor function. Until recently, it was believed that the lateral, as well as the medial meniscus, does not have a specific purpose. It was believed that the meniscus is just the remnants of the muscles.

But the results of various studies have shown that these processes have even more than one function. It turned out that the menisci are involved in the correct distribution of the load on the joint, which protect it from the development of arthritis and arthrosis. Also, crescent cartilage reduces the force of the push falling on the knee joint, stabilizing it.

Moreover, the presence of the right and left meniscus of the knee reduces contact stress. They limit the range of motion, which helps prevent the occurrence of dislocation.

In addition, the purpose of the meniscus is to send a signal to the brain indicating the state of the articulation.

How common is a meniscus injury?

A torn meniscus usually occurs in professional athletes. But everyday physical activity can also cause damage.

Men are at risk. After all, it is they who perform all the physical work, so their body undergoes changes of this kind. Also, the likelihood of pathologies in the knee joint increases in the elderly and men, aged 18 to 30 years.

In people who have crossed the forty-year milestone, damage to the internal meniscus occurs due to factors such as developing joint pathology, which has become chronic. So, every degenerative change that occurs in the knee joint is accompanied by consequences.

After all, even flick or a push can provoke a rupture of the lateral meniscus.

So which falciform cartilage is damaged more often: external or internal? The statistics say that most of patients is diagnosed with damage to the lateral meniscus.

This is explained by the fact that inner meniscus anatomically more prone to injury. But there are cases when degenerative changes spread throughout the joint, in which, in addition to the diseased meniscus, the ligamentous apparatus is damaged.

Symptoms of rupture of sickle-shaped cartilages are strongly pronounced. As a rule, they are manifested by frequent pains, the frequency and strength of which is associated with the severity of the damage.

Symptoms of damage to the anterior and posterior meniscus

Cartilage injuries often occur if a person spins on his leg. Often, a tear occurs during running when the limb hits a protruding surface. In this case, a fall occurs as a result of which the knee is injured, and pain occurs in the area of \u200b\u200bthe bruise.

Signs of damage to the meniscus depend on where the tear appeared. Thus, in the case of more extensive damage to the meniscus, a hematoma occurs. If the injury to the lateral meniscus is small, then movement is difficult, and a characteristic crunch is heard during walking.

Symptoms of a tear in the lateral meniscus of the knee differ from the obvious features of damage to the medial meniscus. If the gap is external, then the person experiences severe pain due to tension in the collateral ligament. Moreover, it gives to the anterior section of the articulation and has a shooting character.

When turning the lower leg, there is also acute pain. And in the outer part of the thigh there is a feeling of weakness. It is these symptoms that disturb a person in the presence of a rupture of the external meniscus.

Note! Symptoms of the disease appear already at the initial stage of its development, so that timely treatment can be started.

Internal meniscal injuries have the following symptoms:

feeling of discomfort inside the joint;
backaches that occur when the joint is stressed;
increased sensitivity of the affected area (the area of \u200b\u200bconnection of cartilaginous tissue and ligaments);
pain when bending the knee;
puffiness (shown in the photo);
weakness in the anterior thigh.

Appearance factors are also important. Therefore, treatment is prescribed after identifying the causes.

If a person is in old age and all of the above symptoms were found in him, then most likely this indicates the presence of a chronic degenerative tear. As a rule, young people do not suffer from such pathologies.

Diagnosis and treatment

To establish a diagnosis, a person complaining of knee pain should see a doctor. First, he will find out what is bothering the patient, and then he will examine the sore leg. Then the doctor will check for fluid accumulation in the patella or muscle atrophy. If these pathologies are detected, then the patient will be referred for examination to a traumatologist.

After oral questioning and examination of the limb experienced doctor immediately establish the correct diagnosis. But to make sure it is correct, the doctor may prescribe additional examinations.

The patient is about to undergo magnetic resonance imaging. x-ray examination and ultrasound examination. By the way, an x-ray of the knee must be done, as it is the main way in which even damage to the posterior horn of the medial meniscus can be detected.

Today, the treatment of injuries of the anterior and posterior meniscus produced by various methods. The most common way is surgery. Surgical method it is used when it is difficult for the patient to bend and unbend the joint, and most importantly, it is relevant if conservative treatment has been ineffective.

Surgical intervention, resulting in the removal of the lateral meniscus, which was damaged, is called arthroscopy. Basically, such an operation is considered simple, and the rehabilitation process lasts about 14 days.

Traditional medicine is also able to eliminate painful symptoms meniscus injury. But doctors say that such treatment can only eliminate the symptoms, but it is impossible to completely get rid of the pathology using home therapies.

Therefore, treatment with the help of traditional medicine is recommended as additional measures. Often such therapy will be used during the recovery period.

During rehabilitation, you can make compresses with honey. In addition, lotions based on onions and burdock leaves are no less effective. But before doing such compresses, you should definitely consult a doctor who will approve or refute these methods of treatment.

Relieves pain and swelling in the joints with arthritis and arthrosis
Restores joints and tissues, effective for osteochondrosis

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Osteoporosis is a severe metabolic disease of the human musculoskeletal system. In many countries, this disease is detected on initial stages thanks to early diagnosis. But, unfortunately, this is not always the case, and osteoporosis can progress slowly and imperceptibly, causing irreparable damage to the body.

Description of the disease

To begin with, it is worth considering the topographic classification of the disease. There are two main forms of osteoporosis: local (local) and general (generalized). The local form is divided into two more subgroups - patchy osteoporosis and uniform.

The main difference between these subgroups is the spread of the zone of the pathological process on a particular bone. If the zone of depletion of the bone substance has a focal chaotically placed character and looks like circles and ovals of various sizes on the radiograph, then this is a focal subgroup.

If the pathological process is evenly distributed over the area of the bone and looks on the radiograph as a general enlightenment of the bone compared to the other, this is a uniform option.

So, focal osteoporosis can be diagnosed only with the help of visual viewing of the radiograph. In the literature, there is another name for this disease - spotted osteoporosis.

For a more accurate assessment of the radiograph, the focus of the image is made not on one limb, but on two at once. This allows you to clearly differentiate the zone of pathology and healthy bone tissue.

Causes

The local form of osteoporosis most often occurs against the background of local tissue damage. These include fractures, displacements, cuts, bruises, inflammation, hypothermia, burns, intoxication, exposure to radiation, exposure to toxins. Drug use and alcoholism can also lead to pathology.

Iatrogenic etiology of osteoporosis occurs in case of non-compliance with the technique of injections, manipulations and surgical interventions. Also, the causes of occurrence can be generalized processes - diabetic neuropathy and angiopathy, autoimmune diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus or systemic scleroderma).

This disease is characterized by periods of exacerbation and remission. During periods of exacerbation, pain in the bones and joints increases, and the patient needs non-narcotic painkillers. Pathological processes during exacerbation "plow" to the maximum, all the time reducing the percentage of workable bone substance.

During remission, the process stops, the pain subsides, as a result of which the patient begins to feel much better.

Severe complications

Spotted osteoporosis of the femur can lead to a very dangerous fracture of the femoral neck. In this case, the patient will not be able to walk for a long time, and bed rest may well lead to congestive pneumonia.

Also severe consequences of osteoporosis are embolism. Indeed, during minor fractures and cracks, the yellow bone marrow from the bone enters the bloodstream. Through the vessels, these fatty emboli enter the pulmonary arteries, clogging them. This process is called pulmonary embolism (PE). This leads to pneumonia, pulmonary edema, ischemia and pulmonary infarction.

The displacement of the ridge can lead not only to a change in posture, but also to pinching of the spinal roots. This variant of pathogenesis is characterized by pain along the innervation of the nerve, a violation of sensitivity in its zone.