The edema of the interspirous ligaments is the accumulation of liquid in the ligaments located between the vertebrae of the spine, indicating that they are inflamed. Usually causing back pain, touch sensitivity and rigidity, which can limit spine movements.
Edema can occur by trauma, such as repetitive movements or intense physical efforts, as well as poor posture, physical inactivity or remain long periods, leading to inflammation of the ligaments.
Treatment of the edema of interesting ligaments should be guided by the orthopedist, after symptom assessment and magnetic resonance imaging, and may include rest, use of anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen, and in some cases physical therapy.
Main symptoms
The main symptoms of the edema of interspirous ligaments are:
- Back pain, usually in the lower back;
- Increased pain when bending back;
- Improvement of pain when folding the body forward;
- Touch sensitivity in the affected region.
In addition, ligament edema can cause stiffness in the affected region, limiting the movements of the spine and, in some cases, causing pain that radiates to the buttocks.
Possible causes
The edema of interspirous ligaments can occur by trauma, through repetitive movements with the spine or intense physical efforts, leading to inflammation of these ligaments.
In addition, natural spine wear with aging or overweight can lead to overload of ligaments, resulting in edema.
It may also be linked to some day -to -day habits, such as poor posture, physical inactivity and remaining long periods sitting, leaving the ligaments more vulnerable to inflammation.
How the diagnosis is made
The diagnosis of the edema of interspirous ligaments is made by the orthopedist, based on symptoms and image exam results, such as magnetic resonance imaging.
Magnetic resonance imaging is the most suitable exam to clearly evaluate the soft parts of the spine, such as ligaments, being able to identify swelling and inflammation in the place. Understand better what magnetic resonance imaging is.
How treatment is done
Treatment for the edema of interspirous ligaments is guided by the orthopedist and may include:
1.
In the early days, it is recommended to avoid movements or activities that worsen pain, such as lifting weight or tilting the spine backwards, thus helping to reduce inflammation.
2. Drug use
The orthopedist may indicate the use of painkillers, such as acetaminophen or dipyrone, for pain relief and discomfort, as well as anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, to reduce swelling and inflammation of ligaments.
3. Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy may include stretching, stabilization exercises, postural work and, in some cases, manual therapies or resources such as heat and electrotherapy.
Physiotherapy exercises aims to reduce pain and prevent new crises, as well as strengthen spine muscles, improve posture and flexibility, avoiding overloads in ligaments.
4. Infiltration with medicines
In case of persistent pain, orthopedist may be recommended by infiltration with anti-inflammatory drugs directly in the affected region.
How to prevent
To prevent the appearance of edema in interspirous ligaments, good posture is recommended, both sitting and standing or loading objects.
In addition, the regular practice of physical activities, such as walking, stretching, pilates or lightweight bodybuilding, strengthens the muscles that support the spine, improve flexibility and decrease the risk of edema.
Maintaining body weight control can also prevent edema, as overweight increases pressure on the spine, favoring wear and inflammation of ligaments.
Source: www.tuasaude.com