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Osteophytes are changes known as bone beaks or growths, which are characterized by the local addition of bone tissue. The most common symptoms include limited mobility (bending, twisting) or a feeling of numbness and tingling.
The main causes of degenerative changes include rheumatic diseases, overload, microtrauma, overweight, degenerative disease or ankylosing spondylitis. The formation of osteophytes it may also have a genetic basis.
Occurrence of osteophytes in turn, it may cause stenosis, i.e. tightening of the spinal canal. The consequence of this is damage to the structures of the spinal cord.
Location and symptoms of osteophytes
osteophyte appear at the place of greatest load. Such places include the spine, knee and hip joints. They are formed on the front or side edges. Pain in the joints is felt – it can occur both while moving and resting, especially at night. osteophyte in the spine, they have different symptoms. If degenerative changes develop in the cervical spine, the most common symptoms are dizziness and headaches, muscle tension and tinnitus. In the thoracic spine you will feel intercostal and inter-scapular pain and you will be able to feel limited mobility. In the lumbar region, the pain will radiate to the buttocks and lower limbs.
Treatment is based on pharmacotherapy (painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs) or rehabilitation. Sometimes it is necessary to perform a surgery, but also after it rehabilitation is implemented. It is important to choose the right exercises to help prevent contractures and joint strain.
We can prevent the formation of degenerative changes through physical activity (preferably not overloading the joints). Swimming, yoga or cycling are certainly exercises that will not strain your joints, but will provide varied physical activity. Correct body weight is also very important, as being overweight is a common cause of muscle build-up osteophytes. The body should be provided with various nutrients and vitamins. Following these rules will significantly minimize the likelihood of the formation of degenerative changes. It must be remembered that physical activity promotes not only our physical health, but also mental health, which should additionally motivate us to move.
The doctor conducts an interview, collects detailed information about the patient’s health and conducts tests to assess the range of motion and muscle strength.
In order to diagnose osteophytes, make an x-ray (X-ray). It is a basic test that allows you to detect changes. In turn, a more detailed image can be obtained from magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography.