The parrot beaks are alterations that occur in the formation of new bone structures at the edges of the vertebrae, which they are shaped like a hook, similar to the beak of a parrot, hence they receive this name.
Scientifically called osteophytes, the parrot beaks can cause different symptoms such as severe back pain, as well as tingling in the arms or legs; and usually occur as a result of normal aging of the spine, or due to poor posture over the years. Nevertheless, They can also occur due to other problems like rheumatoid arthritis O herniated disc, among others.
The treatment of parrot beaks must be guided by the orthopedist, can be indicated, depending on the case, the use of corticosteroids or analgesics with the aim of reduce inflammation and pain. What's more, physical therapy may be indicated for strengthening the muscles around the affected vertebrae, on certain occasions, surgery may be necessary.
Index
Symptoms of parrot beaks
Among the main symptoms of parrot beaks we find the following:
- You have pain that radiates to your thighs, especially when moving.
- You feel a strong pain that is located in the back.
- Tingling sensation in the legs when it develops in the lumbar region or in the arms when it is located in the cervical region.
- If you suffer from muscle stiffness.
- Limitation of spinal movements.
- Decreased muscle strength.
What's more, there may be other symptoms such as difficulty having control over urine or stool, especially when they parrot beaks they are responsible for pressing on some nerves in the spine. In the case of osteophytes in the neck, can lead to swallowing problems due to compression of the laryngeal nerve.
In the presence of symptoms of parrot beaks mentioned, It is important to proceed to consult the orthopedist so that he is the one who is in charge of making the corresponding diagnosis.; and in this way to proceed to carry out the corresponding treatment.
Diagnosis of parrot beaks
The diagnosis of osteophytes is made by the orthopedist through a Physical exam, evaluation of the different symptoms suffered by the patient, personal history and imaging tests, such as spinal x-rays, MRI or CT scan.
Through these imaging tests, the doctor is allowed to confirm the wear of the intervertebral disc., approach between the vertebrae and the formation of prominences in the lateral area of the vertebrae, similar to a parrot's beak, making it possible to start the corresponding timely treatment.
Causes of osteophytes
The parrot beaks They are caused by wear of the intervertebral disc., which causes the vertebrae to come very close to each other, thus leading to the formation of new bone structures that form at the edges of the vertebrae.
There are some factors that can contribute to an increased risk of developing osteophytes, as is the case of the following:
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Obesity
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Natural aging of the spine
- Bad postures over the years
- Herniated disc
- Osteoartrosis
- Scoliosis
- Lupus
- ankylosing spondylitis
- scleroderma
for all this, osteophytes occur more frequently from the 45 years due to natural wear and tear on the spinal discs, in people who are overweight, who are sedentary and in those individuals who have suffered spinal trauma or have rheumatic diseases.
In this way, to avoid the formation of parrot beaks it is important that you maintain a proper posture when sitting, but also when sleeping or walking; and it is also recommended to avoid carrying a lot of weight and doing physical activity on a regular basis.
Difference between parrot beaks and herniated disc
Although they are situations in both cases that injure the bones and cause pain and discomfort, which may be related to aging and poor posture, keep in mind that they are different parrot beaks and herniated disc.
The latter is a situation in which the intervertebral discs wear out, causing symptoms after favoring contact between the vertebrae; while the Parrot beaks are alterations in which there is a formation of a bony structure between the vertebrae.
Treatment of parrot beaks
The treatment of parrot beaks must be guided by the orthopedist in order to help relieve pain and discomfort, improving quality of life. There are different types of treatment that we can use, what are the following:
of a technique such as acupuncture and
In the event that you suffer from parrot beaks, the use of medications is indicated by the orthopedist when the symptoms are intense and interfere with quality of life. Among the most used drugs are the following::
- Analgesics (seemtamol).
- anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen, diclofenac and ibuprofen)
- Injectable corticosteroids (cortisone, applied to the muscle).
In some cases, the doctor could indicate to patients affected by osteophytes a combination of different medications, depending on the symptoms that this may present and the intensity of the same. What's more, it will also be determined by the patient's response to the treatment in question.
Physiotherapy
The physiotherapy may be indicated by the specialist, which recommends the use of stretching and strengthening exercises for the muscles of the abdomen and back; and that allow to improve the movement of the column, flexibility and range of motion, in addition to helping to correct posture, relief of pain and other symptoms of the disease.
Surgery
The surgery for the peaks of They It is indicated by the specialist in the most severe cases., in which a deviation of the column is observed, to the point of making it difficult to perform daily activities.
In this way, You can opt for a surgical intervention to remove the new bone structures that have formed on the edges of the vertebrae.