Scheuermann's disease is a fairly common condition characterized by progressive kyphotic spinal curvature. 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 stooping 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 orthopedic surgeons using a comprehensive approach with effective conservative methods. Full completion of a long course of therapy alleviates symptoms and improves prognosis in 97% of cases.
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 an accurate diagnosis, determination of the stage of the pathology, and identification of complications within a few days. Patient reviews indicate that treatment for this pathology in Israel yields noticeable positive results and occurs in the most comfortable conditions. Foreign patients are also attracted by the reasonable cost, which corresponds to the quality of therapy and is significantly lower than in other countries 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, occurring in one-third of cases alongside scoliosis. To date, the exact causes of the pathology have not been established; however, most specialists consider it to be a hereditary disorder leading to insufficient development of the intervertebral discs. Pathological changes in the vertebrae lead to curvature of the spinal column. Additionally, contributing factors may include injuries, prolonged sitting in incorrect positions (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 exercises tailored to each patient. Additionally, therapeutic massage and various types of hardware physiotherapy procedures have a positive effect.
As mentioned, the course of therapeutic exercises 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 correcting 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 are prescribed to stimulate normal breathing.
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 example, women are prohibited from lifting weights over 3 kilograms, and men over 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 very beneficial, as it positively impacts the back and chest muscles.
Massage sessions help improve blood circulation in muscle tissues, normalizing their flexibility and plasticity. A course of ten sessions is recommended every six months. Additionally, the patient should undergo a mud therapy course twice a year, consisting of 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 is 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, adhering to the prescribed dosage and regimen.
In cases of severe pain syndrome, development of serious dysfunctions 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 spinal alignment.
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Diagnostic Methods for the Disease
Comprehensive examinations necessary for diagnosis and treatment planning in clinics in Israel take no more than three days.
Upon arrival at the clinic, the patient visits the treating orthopedic surgeon. During the appointment, the doctor reviews the medical history, thoroughly questions the patient about their troubling symptoms, and gathers the medical history. Necessary examinations are assigned during the consultation.
On this day, the examinations listed in the appointments are performed:
- x-ray of the spine (the primary diagnostic method for the disease);
- computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine — these methods are prescribed 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 exhibits symptoms characteristic of cardiopathies and lung dysfunctions, 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 experts. The doctors determine the diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment for the patient.
How Much Does Treatment Cost
The cost of treatment is a question that interests most medical tourists. It should be noted that undergoing a treatment course in clinics in Israel 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.
- Affordable 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.