Osteochondrosis

Causes

The main causes of osteochondrosis are related to metabolic disorders and impaired blood circulation in the spine. The most common contributing factors include:

• Sedentary lifestyle;

• Prolonged sitting in an uncomfortable position;

• Excess body weight;

• Spinal injuries;

• Age-related changes;

• Genetic predisposition;

• Constant exposure to vibration or heavy physical labor.

Regular physical activity and weight control help reduce the risk of degenerative changes and preserve spinal health longer.

Stages of Development

Doctors distinguish four stages of osteochondrosis:

• First stage — microcracks appear in the fibrous ring, and the patient feels mild discomfort.

• Second stage — the height of the intervertebral disc decreases, and spinal stability is impaired.

• Third stage — protrusions and hernias form, leading to compression of nerve roots.

• Fourth stage — mobility is limited, deformation develops, and severe pain appears, requiring complex treatment.

Types of Osteochondrosis

Depending on the localization, three main types of the disease are distinguished:

• Cervical — causes headaches, dizziness, tinnitus, and numbness in the arms;

• Thoracic — manifests as pain between the shoulder blades and a feeling of chest tightness;

• Lumbar — accompanied by lower back pain radiating to the legs and sensory disturbances.

Sometimes osteochondrosis affects several parts of the spine at once, requiring an individualized treatment approach.

Symptoms of Osteochondrosis in Adults

The main symptoms include: back pain, limited movement, stiffness, decreased sensitivity, headaches, and numbness in the limbs. In cervical osteochondrosis, vision and hearing disturbances are common, while lumbar osteochondrosis often causes pain that worsens when bending or sitting for long periods. Symptoms vary depending on the disease stage, so early diagnosis is crucial.

Complications

Without timely treatment, osteochondrosis can lead to serious complications, such as intervertebral hernias, chronic pain syndrome, posture disorders, radiculopathy, and reduced work capacity. In severe cases, spinal deformity and partial loss of mobility may develop.

Early medical intervention helps prevent progression and maintain the patient’s quality of life.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of osteochondrosis includes physical examination, analysis of complaints, and instrumental methods: X-ray, MRI, and CT scans of the spine. These studies allow doctors to assess the condition of discs and bone tissue and identify hernias and protrusions. If necessary, additional laboratory tests and electromyography are performed to determine the degree of nerve involvement.

Treatment

Modern treatment methods for osteochondrosis aim to relieve pain, restore mobility, and slow degenerative processes. Therapy may include medication (painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants), physiotherapy, massage, manual therapy, and therapeutic exercise (physical rehabilitation).

A comprehensive treatment plan is selected individually: in the early stages, conservative therapy is effective; in advanced cases, surgical correction may be required. It is important not only to alleviate symptoms but also to address the underlying cause of the disease.

Treatment of Osteochondrosis in Russia

Clinics

In Russia, osteochondrosis treatment is carried out in leading medical centers equipped with modern diagnostic tools and multidisciplinary teams of specialists:

• EMC (European Medical Center) — a clinic specializing in neurology and orthopedics. It offers individualized therapy programs that include physiotherapy, medication, and physical rehabilitation under the supervision of rehabilitation physicians.
• MEDSI — a large network of clinics where osteochondrosis is treated using modern recovery techniques, including manual therapy, physiotherapy procedures, laser therapy, and spinal traction.
• Hadassah Moscow Clinic — a branch of the renowned Israeli medical center. The clinic provides osteochondrosis treatment in accordance with international protocols, including minimally invasive interventions and rehabilitation programs.

Cost

The cost of osteochondrosis treatment depends on the disease stage, chosen therapy method, and clinic level. In Russia, prices vary widely—from basic physiotherapy programs to comprehensive courses involving specialists from various fields.

On average:

• Initial consultation with a neurologist or orthopedist — from USD 40;

• Physiotherapy and massage sessions — from USD 70 per session;

• Course of medication and device-based therapy — from USD 500;

• Comprehensive rehabilitation program for osteochondrosis — from USD 1,000, including diagnostics, treatment, and rehabilitation.

The final cost is determined individually after examination and consultation with a specialist.

MARUS Assistance

MARUS helps patients undergo diagnosis and treatment for osteochondrosis in Russia without the need to organize the process independently. The company’s specialists select the optimal clinic and doctor, clarify the cost, duration, and treatment conditions, assist with translation of medical documents, and support the patient at every stage — from the first consultation to the return home.

This approach allows patients to focus on what matters most — restoring their health and quality of life.