Causes of osteochondrosis

The causes are usually chronic overloading of the bony and cartilaginous structures of the spine. Unilateral loading places more strain on certain areas of the vertebral bodies than others, resulting in pathological wear and tear, degeneration in the sense of osteochondrosis. Common causes are chronic poor posture due to one-sided work (e.g. office work, prolonged standing, one-sided carrying) and lack of exercise.

The muscular supporting apparatus diminishes and cannot adequately perform its function. The passive structures are overloaded and degenerate. Scoliosis is also a risk factor for the development of osteochondrosis.

Scoliosis is a three-dimensional contraction of the spinal column. This leads to malpositioning and altered muscle traits. The result is altered non-physiological strain, which can lead to osteochondrosis. More information can be found in the article Physiotherapy for Scoliosis. Previous trauma or inflammatory diseases can also promote osteochondrosis.

Associated symptoms

Symptoms of osteochondrosis intervertebralis are localized back pain, tense muscles and restricted movement. Due to the morphological changes in the vertebral bodies, a malposition is also manifested, which increases the symptom complex. In later stages, pain-free conditions may occur as the spine becomes increasingly stiff.

Nerve lesions can occur, especially in osteochondrosis intervertebralis in the cervical spine. Depending on the localization, this can manifest itself as pain in the shoulder or upper arm region, pain in the forearm and hand. This can lead to loss of sensitivity and paralysis.

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine can become dangerous if compression of the phrenic nerve occurs. A nerve that emerges from the middle cervical spine and supplies the diaphragm, among other things, with motor power. It can lead to impaired breathing.

The bony attachments to the cervical spine can also lead to constrictions of the vertebral artery running in the transverse processes. This artery supplies blood to some brain regions such as the cerebellum, the brain stem and the occipital lobe. These areas may be undersupplied with corresponding deficits (impaired vision, balance, ringing in the ears). However, acute back pain and muscular tension are usually the main causes.