What are the common types of hernias. How are hernias diagnosed and treated. What are the risk factors for developing a hernia. When should you seek immediate medical attention for a hernia. What are the surgical options for hernia repair.

Understanding Hernias: Definition and Common Types

A hernia occurs when an organ or fatty tissue squeezes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. This condition often results in a visible bulge in the affected area. While hernias can develop in various parts of the body, they most commonly appear in the abdominal region.

There are several types of hernias, each named based on their location:

• Inguinal hernia: Located in the groin area, more common in men
• Femoral hernia: Appears just below the groin, more prevalent in women
• Umbilical hernia: Develops around the navel
• Hiatal hernia: Occurs when part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm
• Incisional hernia: Appears at the site of a previous abdominal surgery

Understanding the type of hernia you have is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment approach and potential complications.

Identifying Hernia Symptoms and Warning Signs

Hernias can present with a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe pain. Recognizing these signs early can lead to prompt treatment and prevent complications.

Common Hernia Symptoms

• A visible bulge or lump in the affected area
• Pain or discomfort, especially when lifting heavy objects or straining
• A feeling of weakness or pressure in the abdomen or groin
• Burning or aching sensation at the site of the bulge
• In some cases, nausea and vomiting (if the hernia causes an intestinal obstruction)

Is it possible for hernias to be asymptomatic. Yes, in some cases, hernias may not cause any noticeable symptoms, particularly if they are small. However, even asymptomatic hernias should be monitored by a healthcare professional to prevent potential complications.

Exploring the Causes and Risk Factors of Hernias

Hernias can develop due to a combination of factors, including weakness in the abdominal wall and increased pressure within the abdominal cavity. Understanding these causes and risk factors can help individuals take preventive measures.

Common Causes of Hernias

• Congenital weakness in the abdominal wall
• Chronic coughing or sneezing
• Straining during bowel movements or urination
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Obesity or rapid weight gain
• Heavy lifting or strenuous physical activity
• Previous abdominal surgery

Can certain medical conditions increase the risk of developing a hernia. Yes, conditions such as cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and enlarged prostate can contribute to hernia formation by increasing abdominal pressure or weakening tissues.

Diagnostic Approaches for Hernia Identification

Accurate diagnosis of a hernia is essential for determining the appropriate treatment plan. Healthcare providers employ various methods to identify and assess hernias.

Common Diagnostic Techniques

1. Physical examination: The doctor will visually inspect and palpate the affected area to detect any bulges or abnormalities.
2. Imaging studies: Ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the hernia’s size and location.
3. Herniography: A specialized X-ray technique that involves injecting contrast material to visualize the hernia sac.
4. Endoscopy: For hiatal hernias, an endoscopic examination of the upper digestive tract may be performed.

Are blood tests useful in diagnosing hernias. While blood tests are not typically used to diagnose hernias directly, they may be ordered to rule out other conditions or assess overall health before surgery.

Treatment Options: From Conservative Management to Surgical Intervention

The treatment approach for hernias depends on various factors, including the type, size, location, and associated symptoms. Options range from watchful waiting to surgical repair.

Conservative Management

For small, asymptomatic hernias, a “watch and wait” approach may be recommended. This involves:

• Regular monitoring of the hernia’s size and symptoms
• Lifestyle modifications to reduce strain on the affected area
• Use of supportive devices, such as hernia trusses or belts

Surgical Repair

When hernias cause discomfort or pose a risk of complications, surgical intervention is often necessary. The two main surgical approaches are:

1. Open hernia repair: A traditional method involving a single large incision to access and repair the hernia
2. Laparoscopic hernia repair: A minimally invasive technique using small incisions and specialized instruments

How long is the recovery period after hernia surgery. Recovery time varies depending on the surgical technique and individual factors, but generally ranges from 1-4 weeks for laparoscopic repairs and 3-6 weeks for open surgeries.

Potential Complications and When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

While many hernias can be managed effectively, some may lead to serious complications if left untreated. Recognizing the signs of a hernia emergency is crucial for preventing life-threatening situations.

Warning Signs Requiring Immediate Medical Care

• Severe, persistent pain in the hernia area
• Rapid swelling or enlargement of the hernia bulge
• Nausea, vomiting, or inability to pass gas or stool
• Fever accompanied by hernia-related symptoms
• Discoloration or redness of the skin over the hernia

Can a hernia become life-threatening. Yes, in rare cases, a hernia can lead to a condition called strangulation, where the blood supply to the herniated tissue is cut off. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate surgical intervention.

Lifestyle Modifications and Preventive Measures for Hernia Management

While not all hernias can be prevented, certain lifestyle changes and preventive measures can reduce the risk of developing a hernia or experiencing complications from an existing one.

Preventive Strategies

1. Maintain a healthy weight to reduce abdominal pressure
2. Practice proper lifting techniques, using your legs instead of your back
3. Avoid straining during bowel movements by eating a high-fiber diet and staying hydrated
4. Quit smoking to improve tissue strength and overall health
5. Treat chronic coughs promptly to reduce abdominal strain
6. Engage in regular exercise to strengthen core and abdominal muscles

Is it safe to exercise with a hernia. While mild to moderate exercise can be beneficial, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before engaging in any strenuous activities. They can provide guidance on safe exercises and activities to avoid.

Advancements in Hernia Treatment: Emerging Techniques and Technologies

The field of hernia treatment continues to evolve, with new techniques and technologies offering improved outcomes and faster recovery times for patients.

Innovative Approaches in Hernia Repair

• Robotic-assisted surgery: Offers enhanced precision and control during minimally invasive procedures
• Biosynthetic mesh materials: Provide improved biocompatibility and reduced risk of complications
• Tissue engineering: Explores the use of stem cells and growth factors to promote natural tissue repair
• Non-surgical interventions: Investigates potential pharmacological treatments to strengthen abdominal walls

How do these advancements impact patient outcomes. These innovations aim to reduce surgical complications, minimize postoperative pain, and improve long-term success rates of hernia repairs.

Understanding hernias, their causes, and available treatment options is crucial for anyone experiencing or at risk of developing this common condition. By recognizing the symptoms, seeking timely medical attention, and adopting preventive measures, individuals can effectively manage hernias and minimize their impact on daily life. As research continues to advance, new treatment modalities offer hope for even better outcomes in the future, emphasizing the importance of staying informed about this prevalent medical issue.

Hernias, while often benign, can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and, in some cases, pose serious health risks. The key to successful hernia management lies in early detection, proper diagnosis, and tailored treatment approaches. Whether opting for conservative management or surgical intervention, patients should work closely with their healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate course of action based on their specific circumstances.

As we’ve explored throughout this comprehensive guide, hernias come in various types, each with its own set of risk factors, symptoms, and potential complications. By understanding these nuances, individuals can better advocate for their health and make informed decisions about their care. From lifestyle modifications to cutting-edge surgical techniques, the range of options available for hernia management continues to expand, offering hope and improved outcomes for those affected by this condition.

It’s important to remember that while hernias are common, each case is unique. What works for one person may not be the best approach for another. This underscores the importance of personalized care and open communication with healthcare providers. By staying vigilant about symptoms, adhering to preventive measures, and seeking timely medical attention when needed, individuals can effectively navigate the challenges posed by hernias and maintain their overall health and well-being.

As research in the field of hernia treatment progresses, we can anticipate even more innovative approaches to diagnosis, management, and repair. These advancements hold the promise of less invasive procedures, faster recovery times, and reduced risk of recurrence. However, it’s crucial to approach new technologies and techniques with a balanced perspective, considering both their potential benefits and limitations.

In conclusion, hernias represent a complex and multifaceted medical condition that requires a comprehensive approach to management. From understanding the underlying causes to exploring the latest treatment options, knowledge is power when it comes to dealing with hernias. By staying informed, proactive, and engaged in their care, individuals can effectively manage hernias and minimize their impact on daily life. As we look to the future, the continued evolution of hernia treatment offers hope for improved outcomes and enhanced quality of life for those affected by this common condition.

Hernia: Causes, treatments, and diagnosis

Hernia is a common problem. It causes a localized bulge in the abdomen or groin.

It can often be harmless and pain-free, but at times it can bring discomfort and pain.

In this article, we investigate what a hernia is, the common causes of hernia, and how they are treated.

Fast facts on hernias

• Hernias often produce no troublesome symptoms, but abdominal complaints may signal a serious problem.
• They are usually straightforward to diagnose, simply by feeling and looking for the bulge.
• Treatment is a choice between watchful waiting and corrective surgery, either via an open or keyhole operation.
• Inguinal hernia surgery is more common in childhood and old age, while the likelihood of femoral hernia surgery increases throughout life.

Was this helpful?

A hernia occurs when there is a weakness or hole in the peritoneum, the muscular wall that usually keeps abdominal organs in place.

This defect in the peritoneum allows organs and tissues to push through, or herniate, producing a bulge.

The lump may disappear when the person lies down, and sometimes it can be pushed back into. Coughing may make it reappear.

Hernias can commonly be found in the following areas:

Groin: a femoral hernia creates a bulge just below the groin. This is more common in women. An inguinal hernia is more common in men. It is a bulge in the groin that may reach the scrotum.

Upper part of the stomach: a hiatal or hiatus hernia is caused by the upper part of the stomach pushing out of the abdominal cavity and into the chest cavity through an opening in the diaphragm.

Belly button: a bulge in this region is produced by an umbilical or periumbilical hernia.

Surgical scar: past abdominal surgery can lead to an incisional hernia through the scar.

With the exception of an incisional hernia (a complication of abdominal surgery), in most cases, there is no obvious reason for a hernia to occur. The risk of hernia increases with age and occurs more commonly in men than in women.

A hernia can be congenital (present at birth) or develop in children who have a weakness in their abdominal wall.

Activities and medical problems that increase pressure on the abdominal wall can lead to a hernia. These include:

• straining on the toilet (due to long-term constipation, for example)
• persistent cough
• cystic fibrosis
• enlarged prostate
• straining to urinate
• being overweight or obese
• abdominal fluid
• lifting heavy items
• peritoneal dialysis
• poor nutrition
• smoking
• physical exertion
• undescended testicles

Risk factors for hernia

The risk factors can be broken down by hernia type:

Incisional hernia risk factors

Because an incisional hernia is the result of surgery, the clearest risk factor is a recent surgical procedure on the abdomen.

People are most susceptible 3-6 months after the procedure, especially if:

• they are involved in strenuous activity
• have gained additional weight
• become pregnant

These factors all put extra stress on tissue as it heals.

Inguinal hernia risk factors

Those with a higher risk of inguinal hernia incude:

Share on PinterestSmoking tobacco increases the risk of inguinal hernias.

• older adults
• people with close relatives who have had inguinal hernias
• people who have had inguinal hernias previously
• males
• smokers, as chemicals in tobacco weaken tissues, making a hernia more likely
• people with chronic constipation
• premature birth and low birth weight
• pregnancy

Umbilical hernia risk factors

Umbilical hernias are most common in babies with a low birth weight and premature babies.

In adults, the risk factors include:

• being overweight
• having multiple pregnancies
• being female

Hiatal hernia risk factors

The risk of hiatal hernia is higher in people who:

• are aged 50 years or over
• have obesity

In many cases, a hernia is no more than a painless swelling that presents no problems and needs no immediate medical attention.

A hernia may, however, be the cause of discomfort and pain, with symptoms often becoming worse when standing, straining, or lifting heavy items. Most people who notice increasing swelling or soreness eventually see a doctor.

In some cases, a hernia needs immediate surgery, for instance, when part of the gut becomes obstructed or strangulated by an inguinal hernia.

Immediate medical attention should be sought if an inguinal hernia produces acute abdominal complaints such as:

• pain
• nausea
• vomiting
• the bulge cannot be pushed back into the abdomen

The swelling, in these cases, is typically firm and tender and cannot be pushed back up into the abdomen.

A hiatal hernia can produce symptoms of acid reflux, such as heartburn, which is caused by stomach acid getting into the esophagus.

For a hernia without symptoms, the usual course of action is to watch and wait, but this can be risky for certain types of hernia, such as femoral hernias.

Within 2 years of a femoral hernia being diagnosed, 40 percent result in bowel strangulation.

It remains unclear whether non-emergency surgery is worthwhile for hernia repair in cases of an inguinal hernia without symptoms that can be pushed back into the abdomen.

The American College of Surgeons and some other medical bodies consider elective surgery unnecessary in such cases, recommending instead a course of watchful waiting.

Others recommend surgical repair to remove the risk of later strangulation of the gut, a complication where blood supply is cut off to an area of tissue, which requires an emergency procedure.

These health authorities consider an earlier, routine operation preferable to a more risky emergency procedure.

Types of surgery

Share on PinterestBelly button following hernia surgery.

Although surgical options depend on individual circumstances, including the location of the hernia, there are two main types of surgical intervention for hernia:

• open surgery
• laparoscopic operation (keyhole surgery)

Open surgical repair closes the hernia using sutures, mesh, or both, and the surgical wound in the skin is closed with sutures, staples, or surgical glue.

Laparoscopic repair is used for repeat operations to avoid previous scars, and while usually more expensive, is less likely to cause complications such as infection.

Surgical repair of a hernia guided by a laparoscope allows for the use of smaller incisions, enabling a faster recovery from the operation.

The hernia is repaired in the same way as in open surgery, but it is guided by a small camera and a light introduced through a tube. Surgical instruments are inserted through another small incision. The abdomen is inflated with gas to help the surgeon see better and give them space to work; the whole operation is performed under general anesthetic.

Hernia in children

Inguinal hernia is one of the most common surgical conditions in infants and children.

A 2014 systematic review of 20 years of data on conventional open hernia repair (herniorrhaphy) and laparoscopic hernia repair (herniorrhaphy) in infants and children found that laparoscopic surgery is faster than open surgery for bilateral hernias, but that there is no significant difference in operating time for unilateral inguinal hernia repair.

The rate of recurrence is similar for both types of procedure, but complications, such as wound infection, are more likely with open surgery, especially in infants.

Read the article in Spanish

Hernia: Causes, treatments, and diagnosis

Hernia is a common problem. It causes a localized bulge in the abdomen or groin.

It can often be harmless and pain-free, but at times it can bring discomfort and pain.

In this article, we investigate what a hernia is, the common causes of hernia, and how they are treated.

Fast facts on hernias

• Hernias often produce no troublesome symptoms, but abdominal complaints may signal a serious problem.
• They are usually straightforward to diagnose, simply by feeling and looking for the bulge.
• Treatment is a choice between watchful waiting and corrective surgery, either via an open or keyhole operation.
• Inguinal hernia surgery is more common in childhood and old age, while the likelihood of femoral hernia surgery increases throughout life.

Was this helpful?

A hernia occurs when there is a weakness or hole in the peritoneum, the muscular wall that usually keeps abdominal organs in place.

This defect in the peritoneum allows organs and tissues to push through, or herniate, producing a bulge.

The lump may disappear when the person lies down, and sometimes it can be pushed back into. Coughing may make it reappear.

Hernias can commonly be found in the following areas:

Groin: a femoral hernia creates a bulge just below the groin. This is more common in women. An inguinal hernia is more common in men. It is a bulge in the groin that may reach the scrotum.

Upper part of the stomach: a hiatal or hiatus hernia is caused by the upper part of the stomach pushing out of the abdominal cavity and into the chest cavity through an opening in the diaphragm.

Belly button: a bulge in this region is produced by an umbilical or periumbilical hernia.

Surgical scar: past abdominal surgery can lead to an incisional hernia through the scar.

With the exception of an incisional hernia (a complication of abdominal surgery), in most cases, there is no obvious reason for a hernia to occur. The risk of hernia increases with age and occurs more commonly in men than in women.

A hernia can be congenital (present at birth) or develop in children who have a weakness in their abdominal wall.

Activities and medical problems that increase pressure on the abdominal wall can lead to a hernia. These include:

• straining on the toilet (due to long-term constipation, for example)
• persistent cough
• cystic fibrosis
• enlarged prostate
• straining to urinate
• being overweight or obese
• abdominal fluid
• lifting heavy items
• peritoneal dialysis
• poor nutrition
• smoking
• physical exertion
• undescended testicles

Risk factors for hernia

The risk factors can be broken down by hernia type:

Incisional hernia risk factors

Because an incisional hernia is the result of surgery, the clearest risk factor is a recent surgical procedure on the abdomen.

People are most susceptible 3-6 months after the procedure, especially if:

• they are involved in strenuous activity
• have gained additional weight
• become pregnant

These factors all put extra stress on tissue as it heals.

Inguinal hernia risk factors

Those with a higher risk of inguinal hernia incude:

Share on PinterestSmoking tobacco increases the risk of inguinal hernias.

• older adults
• people with close relatives who have had inguinal hernias
• people who have had inguinal hernias previously
• males
• smokers, as chemicals in tobacco weaken tissues, making a hernia more likely
• people with chronic constipation
• premature birth and low birth weight
• pregnancy

Umbilical hernia risk factors

Umbilical hernias are most common in babies with a low birth weight and premature babies.

In adults, the risk factors include:

• being overweight
• having multiple pregnancies
• being female

Hiatal hernia risk factors

The risk of hiatal hernia is higher in people who:

• are aged 50 years or over
• have obesity

In many cases, a hernia is no more than a painless swelling that presents no problems and needs no immediate medical attention.

A hernia may, however, be the cause of discomfort and pain, with symptoms often becoming worse when standing, straining, or lifting heavy items. Most people who notice increasing swelling or soreness eventually see a doctor.

In some cases, a hernia needs immediate surgery, for instance, when part of the gut becomes obstructed or strangulated by an inguinal hernia.

Immediate medical attention should be sought if an inguinal hernia produces acute abdominal complaints such as:

• pain
• nausea
• vomiting
• the bulge cannot be pushed back into the abdomen

The swelling, in these cases, is typically firm and tender and cannot be pushed back up into the abdomen.

A hiatal hernia can produce symptoms of acid reflux, such as heartburn, which is caused by stomach acid getting into the esophagus.

For a hernia without symptoms, the usual course of action is to watch and wait, but this can be risky for certain types of hernia, such as femoral hernias.

Within 2 years of a femoral hernia being diagnosed, 40 percent result in bowel strangulation.

It remains unclear whether non-emergency surgery is worthwhile for hernia repair in cases of an inguinal hernia without symptoms that can be pushed back into the abdomen.

The American College of Surgeons and some other medical bodies consider elective surgery unnecessary in such cases, recommending instead a course of watchful waiting.

Others recommend surgical repair to remove the risk of later strangulation of the gut, a complication where blood supply is cut off to an area of tissue, which requires an emergency procedure.

These health authorities consider an earlier, routine operation preferable to a more risky emergency procedure.

Types of surgery

Share on PinterestBelly button following hernia surgery.

Although surgical options depend on individual circumstances, including the location of the hernia, there are two main types of surgical intervention for hernia:

• open surgery
• laparoscopic operation (keyhole surgery)

Open surgical repair closes the hernia using sutures, mesh, or both, and the surgical wound in the skin is closed with sutures, staples, or surgical glue.

Laparoscopic repair is used for repeat operations to avoid previous scars, and while usually more expensive, is less likely to cause complications such as infection.

Surgical repair of a hernia guided by a laparoscope allows for the use of smaller incisions, enabling a faster recovery from the operation.

The hernia is repaired in the same way as in open surgery, but it is guided by a small camera and a light introduced through a tube. Surgical instruments are inserted through another small incision. The abdomen is inflated with gas to help the surgeon see better and give them space to work; the whole operation is performed under general anesthetic.

Hernia in children

Inguinal hernia is one of the most common surgical conditions in infants and children.

A 2014 systematic review of 20 years of data on conventional open hernia repair (herniorrhaphy) and laparoscopic hernia repair (herniorrhaphy) in infants and children found that laparoscopic surgery is faster than open surgery for bilateral hernias, but that there is no significant difference in operating time for unilateral inguinal hernia repair.

The rate of recurrence is similar for both types of procedure, but complications, such as wound infection, are more likely with open surgery, especially in infants.

Read the article in Spanish

Three ways to cure spinal hernia at home –

• Post category: Articles
• Post author: Author of the article Alexander Serik
• This entry was published on: 11/22/2019
• Entry modified: 01/06/2021
• Reading time: 1 min(s) read

Home treatment

There are many stories on the net about how to heal a herniated disc on your own. Do you think this is possible? Perhaps, if you try very hard and do not stop treatment.

Where to start?

From plan. You need to adjust the diet, lead an active lifestyle, do exercises, use folk remedies. But remember that you can not do without a doctor. Those remedies that we will write about will help you enhance the effect of treatment.

Let’s start with the diet.

spinal hernia diet

Watch your diet. This will help to give “nutrition” to the diseased disc, because a hernia occurs due to a lack of nutrition.

What can you eat?

• Wholemeal bread
• Fruit: pears, apples
• Vegetables: pumpkin, beets
• Aspic
• Fresh milk
• Nuts
• Cereals
• Dietary meat

What should not be consumed? We adjust our lifestyle

Hernia of the spine lifestyle

Perhaps, before the hernia appeared, you were actively involved in sports, carried store and easily rearranged at home. Now no heavy bags more than two kilograms

• Walk
• Swim
• Don’t make sudden movements
• Squat instead of bending over to pick up objects from the floor

Do back exercises every day. Here is one of the simplest, which must be performed every day, 5-10 times, and it will be possible to cure a hernia without surgery.

• Lie on your back, palms on the floor. Try to lift your pelvis up. Stay in this position for 5-10 seconds. Then drop down. Repeat 5 times, increasing the number of repetitions.

folk remedies

spinal hernia folk remedies

Below we will publish three recipes that are successfully used during treatment.

Camphor oil and milk

Rub the affected area of ​​the spine with camphor oil. Apply a compress with warm cow’s milk on top. You can wrap this place with a warm scarf or wrap yourself up and sit warm for at least two hours.

Garlic and vodka

You will need 300 gr. garlic, 500 ml of vodka. Grind garlic, pour vodka and let it brew for 10 days. Transfer the finished mixture to gauze and apply to the spine. Cover with polyethylene and insulate.

Birch leaves and oil

You need to collect birch leaves, pour them with oil (about 200 ml). Let it brew for two weeks, and then you can rub the sore spot with this remedy.

We have described to you the healthiest way to get rid of a hernia without surgery or medical treatment. Believe in yourself, take care of your health and you will be able to get rid of pain forever.

Call now and sign up for a free appointment
+7 (812) 922-44-24

If you have similar SYMPTOMS or a medical condition,
then you can Make an appointment for a free appointment right now to

By phone number: +7 (812) 922-44-24

Advanced Joint and Spine Treatment

Non-surgical spine rehabilitation program in St. Petersburg. A complex of procedures that not only relieves pain, but also ensures the recovery of the patient without pain and surgery.

An innovative way to restore joints at any age, with virtually no contraindications. It is possible to carry out the procedure at the first appointment, and feel the improvement after 2 weeks.

Not only pain relief, but also effective treatment of joints and spine

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+7 (911) 922-44-24

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Tags: hernia, hernia treatment, folk remedies

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Drug treatment of intervertebral hernia, osteochondrosis, back pain, joints joints, relieve muscle tension). For pathogenetic therapy, anti-inflammatory, decongestant drugs, chondroprotectors, enzyme, vitamin, tonic drugs and others are prescribed.

Drug treatment of degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the spine and joints (arthrosis, osteochondrosis, spondylosis, spondylarthrosis, protrusion or herniation of the intervertebral disc, etc.) is conditionally divided into three main areas:

1. etiotropic therapy – treatment is aimed at identifying and eliminating the cause of the disease ;
2. pathogenetic therapy – influence on the mechanisms of disease development;
3. symptomatic therapy – elimination of external symptoms of the disease.

Etiotropic treatment , aimed at identifying and eliminating the cause of the disease, is considered the most effective method of treatment. The impact on the cause of the disease allows not only to reduce the external manifestations of the disease, but also to stop its development. With the appointment of etiotropic therapy in the early stages of the disease, it is possible to achieve complete recovery and restore the lost functions of the spine and joints.

The main cause of degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the spine and joints is a violation of blood supply, a decrease in the trophism of the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, joints of the spine, surrounding soft tissues, which develops as a result of a sedentary lifestyle, insufficiency of targeted exercises for the spine and joints, overload of the musculoskeletal system and other factors.

The main methods of etiotropic therapy are:
1. Lifestyle changes , adequate targeted physical activity on the spine and joints, proper nutrition, proper organization of the workplace, control of posture and body weight.
2. Restoration of normal function of the joints of the spine, back muscles, intervertebral discs, which is achieved with the help of such methods of treatment as: massage, manual therapy, physiotherapy, reflexology, therapeutic blockades, physiotherapy exercises.
3. The following groups of drugs can be classified as etiotropic drugs:

Chondroprotectors. In the modern scheme of treatment of osteochondrosis, osteoarthrosis and other diseases of the spine and joints, an important place is given to chondroprotectors. According to the recommendations of the Association of Rheumatologists of Ukraine, they, along with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are the basis of the therapeutic approach in patients with osteoarthritis.

The main chondroprotectors are glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. They are natural components of articular cartilage, are part of the proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans of cartilage tissue. The most important moment in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis is the formation of proteoglycan deficiency, which consists in the depolymerization of protein-polysaccharide complexes with the formation of smaller compounds that leave the cartilage. At the same time, the function of chondrocytes is also impaired, they synthesize less stable proteoglycans, the loss of the physiological properties of cartilage develops, which is accompanied by the formation of erosions and cracks in the cartilage.

Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are used in the treatment of osteoarthritis and similar diseases as natural metabolites as agents capable of exerting a protective effect on cartilage.

Synovial fluid implants . Currently, high molecular weight hyaluronic acid preparations are widely used in the medical practice of osteoarthritis. They improve the elasticity and viscosity of endogenous hyaluronan. This is actually an analogue of the synovial fluid in the joints. By protecting pain receptors, hyaluronic acid preparations eliminate pain, improve joint mobility by improving depreciation (elasticity), increase lubrication of intraarticular tissues, protecting articular cartilage from inflammatory mediators.

Homeopathic medicines . They have a therapeutic effect on the principle of “similarity”, causing an exacerbation of chronic long-term diseases, as a result of which the body’s own defenses are activated, aimed at combating this disease. Homeopathic medicines do not cause side effects.

Pathogenetic treatment – aimed at eliminating the mechanisms of disease development. These include anti-inflammatory, decongestant, hormonal and enzyme preparations, muscle relaxants, etc. These drugs can reduce the symptoms of the disease by eliminating pathological processes such as inflammation, swelling, muscle spasm.

If you stop taking these drugs and do not eliminate the underlying cause of the disease, the symptoms of the disease usually return. Therefore, these drugs are usually prescribed for a long period of time, and in some cases, patients are prescribed lifelong use of them.

The use of these drugs is also often accompanied by various side effects, for example: NSAIDs can cause toxic damage to the liver, kidneys, central nervous system, irritant effect on the gastrointestinal tract, depression of the hematopoietic system, allergic reactions; long-term use of glucocorticoids leads to the destruction of articular cartilage, the development of osteoporosis, decreased immunity, and metabolic disorders.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – the most commonly used drugs for the treatment of degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the spine and joints, have analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory effects, reduce pain, fever and inflammation.

Most drugs in this group are non-selective inhibitors of the cyclooxygenase enzyme, which is responsible for the production of inflammatory mediators (prostaglandins, thromboxane).

The use of NSAIDs also has many undesirable side effects, such as damage to the mucous membrane of the digestive tract, impaired liver and kidney function, leukopenia, allergic reactions, etc.

Muscle relaxants . They are prescribed to reduce muscle tone, in complex therapy – to eliminate contractures.

Glucocorticosteroids . These drugs include the natural hormones of the adrenal cortex. They are often prescribed for symptoms of reactive synovitis. Long-term use significantly worsens the course of the disease due to damage to articular cartilage – inhibition of metabolic processes in chondrocytes, resulting in a violation of the organization of the matrix, which reduces the resistance of cartilage to stress. Such drugs are prescribed in a short course.

Biogenic stimulants . Aloe liquid extract is an adaptogenic agent that stimulates regeneration processes.

Administer s.c. 1 ml daily. The course – 15-25 injections.

Fibs – a drug that stimulates tissue regeneration processes.

Administer s.c. 1 ml daily. The course – 15-25 injections.

Preparations that improve blood microcirculation in tissues .

Pentoxifylline is an angioprotector, a derivative of methylxanthine. The mechanism of action is associated with the inhibition of phosphodiesterase and the accumulation of cAMP in vascular smooth muscle cells, in blood cells, and in other tissues and organs. The drug improves microcirculation and tissue oxygen supply, to the greatest extent – in the limbs and the central nervous system.

Administered intravenously as a drip infusion (5 ml solution) to 200 ml saline once a day. The course – 15 infusions. It is also taken orally 2 tablets (200 mg) 3 times a day. Patients with a large weight are prescribed 400 mg 3 times a day. The course is a month. IV infusions can be carried out not only in a hospital, but also in a polyclinic in a specially equipped treatment room.

Enzyme preparations . Systemic Enzyme Therapy (SET) is a treatment using targeted mixtures of hydrolytic enzymes, the therapeutic effectiveness of which is based on a complex effect on key processes in the body.

Acting systemically, enzymes have a variety of effects, realizing their influence through anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiplatelet, fibrinolytic, decongestant and secondary analgesic effects.

Vitamins . For the treatment of osteochondrosis, it is recommended to use vitamins A, B1, B6, B12, C, D, E.

B group vitamins reduce the severity of neurological disorders caused by osteochondrosis, restore normal tissue sensitivity, and reduce pain.

In the treatment of osteochondrosis, B vitamins can be taken in the form of tablets or injected. There are a number of complex preparations containing these vitamins in their composition.

For the treatment of osteochondrosis, vitamin D is also successfully used, which is desirable to combine with the additional administration of calcium. There are complex preparations of vitamin D and calcium that help restore normal bone density and strengthen the ligamentous apparatus. The use of vitamin D preparations is especially indicated in cases where osteochondrosis develops against the background of ongoing osteoporosis. This phenomenon is often observed, especially among the elderly.

Vitamins A, C and E are powerful antioxidants that contribute to the additional oxidation of free radicals, which appear in large quantities in the pathology zone and provoke further damage to intervertebral cartilage tissues. In turn, antioxidant vitamins contribute to the enhancement of regeneration processes.

For the treatment of osteochondrosis, based on the characteristics of the disease, the doctor may prescribe the intake of certain vitamins or a vitamin complex.