Treatment of spondyloarthritis in a sanatorium

Deforming spondyloarthritis — is a primary lesion of the intervertebral joints caused by spinal overload in individuals with hyperlordosis (pathological curvature of the spine) in the cervical or lumbar region, and is associated with developmental anomalies of the musculoskeletal system or occupational factors.

Radiographically, one can observe narrowed joint spaces, subchondral bone sclerosis, deformities, and hypertrophy of the articular surfaces of the facet joints due to bony-cartilaginous overgrowths.

Causes of Development

This disease may be triggered by developmental abnormalities of the spine, past injuries or chronic microtraumas, postural disorders, and metabolic imbalances. Static loads caused by sedentary work can overload the spinal column and, without proper prevention, lead to spondyloarthritis. Prolonged physical strain and participation in weightlifting or heavy athletics can also contribute to this condition. Another cause is flat feet — if orthopedic insoles are not used, uneven load distribution on the spine occurs in upright positions, which leads to the development of the disease.

Symptoms

The process most often localizes in the lumbar region and is characterized by periodic dull pain and the gradual formation of lumbar lordosis. Pain may radiate to both lower limbs.

If the cervical spine is affected, symptoms may include headaches, pain in the occipital area, neck, and shoulder girdle. Pain typically appears after sleep.

Diagnosis

The main diagnostic method for identifying the condition is X-ray imaging of the spine in multiple projections, where an experienced vertebrologist will detect altered contours of the facet joints and presence of osteophytes. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is also widely used for diagnosing spondyloarthritis.

Treatment of Spondyloarthritis

• Radon baths, dry carbonic acid baths, turpentine baths, bischofite baths, and others.
• Magnetotherapy.
• Darsonvalization of the affected area.
• Heat therapy: galvanogly mud and paraffin-ozokerite applications.
• Electrotherapy (electrophoresis, amplitopulse therapy, interferential current therapy, diadynamic therapy).
• Ultrasound therapy with medicinal agents.
• Light therapy using magnet-infrared laser, "Bioptron", Korobov's photonic polychromatic matrix.
• Manual or vacuum massage, pressotherapy.
• Therapeutic exercise in traction-training mode; strengthening of back extensor muscles.
• Exercises with an instructor on the Yevminov trainer.
• Computerized traction of the lumbar, thoracic, and cervical spine sections, fixed with a belt and Schanz collar.
• In case of disc herniation – electrophoresis with CARIPAIN Plus, phonophoresis with CARIPAIN cream, topical application of CARIPAIN gel.
• Administration of Heel pharmaceuticals — Zeel T, Traumeel S, Discus Compositum, Ubichinon, Lymphomyosot.
• Manual therapy (post-isometric relaxation).
• Shockwave therapy for sacroiliac joint arthritis and myofascial syndromes.
• Blockades with Mydocalm for myofascial syndrome and piriformis muscle syndrome.
• CO₂ gas injections.
• Intratissue electrostimulation according to Gerasimov’s method in cases of complex nerve damage and pain syndrome.
• Anti-osteoporotic therapy if necessary.
• Chondroprotective therapy.