Scheuermann's disease is a fairly common condition characterized by progressive kyphotic curvature of the spine. In the early stages of the pathology, the characteristic signs are very weakly expressed, which significantly complicates accurate diagnosis. In the absence of therapy, the disease gradually progresses, resulting in pronounced stoop in the patient, and in some cases, the appearance of a hump. Additionally, in advanced stages, painful symptoms arise in the form of back pain, rapid fatigue, and dysfunction of the heart and lungs. Treatment of Scheuermann's disease in Israel is conducted by experienced vertebrologists and orthopedists using a comprehensive approach with effective conservative methods. A full course of therapy in 97% of cases alleviates symptoms and improves prognosis.
The therapeutic exercise shown in this case is aimed at strengthening the back muscles, restoring normal breathing and heart function. In severe cases, surgical treatment is prescribed, professionally performed by Israeli spinal surgeons. The presence of modern high-precision equipment in the country's medical centers allows for a correct diagnosis, determination of the stage of the pathology, and identification of complications within a few days. Patient reviews indicate that treatment of this pathology in Israel yields noticeable positive results and occurs in the most comfortable conditions. Foreign patients are also attracted by reasonable costs, corresponding to the quality of therapy and significantly lower than in other countries that are popular among medical tourists.
Treatment Methods for the Disease
Scheuermann's disease, also known as adolescent kyphosis, first manifests during the active growth period of the spine, in one-third of cases combining with scoliosis. To date, the exact causes of the pathology have not been established; however, most specialists consider it to be a genetically determined disorder leading to insufficient development of intervertebral discs. Pathological changes in the vertebrae lead to curvature of the spinal column. Additionally, stimulating factors may include injuries, prolonged sitting in an incorrect posture (for example, at a desk), and active hormonal changes during puberty.
As a result of pronounced kyphosis, Schmorl's intervertebral hernias develop, and there is compression of organs, leading to dysfunction. In some cases, spinal cord compression occurs, resulting in sensory and motor function disorders, and paresthesia.
There are two forms of the disease: thoracic (changes in the thoracic vertebrae) and thoracolumbar (the pathological process affects both the lower thoracic vertebrae and the upper lumbar vertebrae).
In most cases, a long-term conservative therapy is prescribed, primarily including therapeutic exercise programs specifically developed for each patient. Additionally, therapeutic massage and various types of hardware physiotherapy procedures have a positive effect.
As mentioned, the course of therapeutic exercise is prescribed for a long period, with the first few months requiring daily exercises, after which sessions are conducted every other day. Each session lasts a minimum of 40 minutes but can extend up to one and a half hours. To achieve a positive result, it is very important to maintain regularity and not skip sessions.
The therapeutic exercise program aimed at eliminating the pathology and normalizing posture includes exercises that strengthen the chest muscles and gluteal muscles, relieve increased tone in the neck and lower back muscles, and eliminate excessive stretching of the muscles of the thoracic spine. Additionally, exercises to stimulate normal breathing are prescribed.
Patients are not contraindicated from regular physical exercises, but care should be taken in their selection to avoid those that may cause negative consequences. For instance, women are prohibited from lifting weights over 3 kilograms, while men are limited to 5 kilograms. It is important not to excessively load the chest muscles, as this can lead to forward displacement of the shoulder girdle. Jumping and most team sports are contraindicated due to their association with intense one-time loads on the spine. Swimming is highly beneficial, as it impacts the back and chest muscles.
Massage sessions help improve blood circulation in muscle tissues, normalizing their flexibility and plasticity. A course consisting of ten sessions is recommended every six months. Additionally, the patient should undergo a mud therapy course twice a year, including at least 15 procedures.
The patient must ensure suitable furniture for work and rest, as well as an orthopedic bed. In some cases, wearing a corset may be necessary to alleviate symptoms. Medication therapy includes calcium preparations, which can lead to accumulation of this substance in ligaments and provoke stone formation in the kidneys. For this reason, only those medications prescribed by a doctor should be taken, following the prescribed dosage and regimen.
In cases of pronounced pain syndrome, development of severe dysfunction of the lungs and cardiovascular system, the possibility of surgical treatment is considered. During surgical interventions, metal rods, screws, and other constructs are implanted into the vertebrae to aid in straightening the spine.
Diagnostic Methods for the Disease
Conducting a comprehensive examination necessary for diagnosis and treatment planning in Israeli clinics takes no more than three days.
Upon arrival at the clinic, the patient visits the treating orthopedist. During the appointment, the doctor studies the medical history, thoroughly questions the patient about the troubling symptoms, and collects the anamnesis. Necessary examinations are assigned during the consultation.
On this day, the examinations listed in the assignments are performed:
- x-ray of the spine (the main diagnostic method for the disease);
- computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine — these methods are assigned when neurological disorders are detected in the patient, allowing for a detailed assessment of the condition of bone structures and soft tissues;
- electromyography;
- electrocardiography (ECG);
- echocardiography (ultrasound examination of the heart).
- If the patient has symptoms characteristic of cardiopathies and lung dysfunction, they are referred for consultations with a cardiologist and pulmonologist.
The results of the examinations are reviewed by a medical commission, which includes the treating physician and specialized specialists. The doctors determine the diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment for the patient.
How Much Does Treatment of the Disease Cost
The cost of treatment is a question that interests most medical tourists. It should be noted that undergoing a treatment course in Israeli clinics allows for savings of about 30% compared to the amounts required in Western European countries, and up to 50% compared to the USA.
Advantages of Treatment in Israel
- Qualified experienced doctors.
- Availability of modern diagnostic and therapeutic equipment.
- Proficiency in modern conservative and surgical techniques.
- High level of comfort.
- Reasonable prices.
Undergoing comprehensive treatment is necessary to halt the progression of the disease and restore the ability to lead an active life. Do not delay, choose a clinic and undergo therapy under the guidance of highly qualified specialists.