Treatment and prevention of diseases of the musculoskeletal system

Possibilities of application of eastern techniques of massage in a complex approach at elimination of functional pathologies of musculoskeletal apparatus.

Back and limb pain is not a rare phenomenon. It was noted by ancient physicians, the first folk healers. Patients complained of similar symptoms in different situations and cases. Massage or manual impact on the areas where pain is felt is considered the best method of therapy. It helps to solve many problems associated with diseases of the joints, spine, and bones. The high therapeutic effect of massage has also been noticed for a long time. And over the millennia of its use, mankind has managed to accumulate vast practical experience.

Today, as well as a thousand years ago, massage practices and techniques are as popular, in demand and relevant as ever. The combination of ancient oriental techniques with modern manual methods significantly increases the effectiveness of massage, especially when it is indispensable in conditions far from medical facilities. That is, when the patient needs help right now, in a place where there is no equipment, tools, or other devices.

Diseases of the spine and joints of a degenerative-dystrophic nature are the consequences of muscle dysfunctions. They are manifested, as a rule, through soreness, muscle-tonic syndrome, elimination of the centre of gravity, and other symptoms.

For example, a 43-year-old man of strong build, leading a healthy lifestyle, sought help.

Complaints: severe aching pain in the left hip joint, which increased during walking and became permanent.

Patient History: The pain appeared more than 6 months ago. They appeared during and after regular running (10 km, 3 - 5 times a week). At first, they were intermittent, but later became permanent, and lameness appeared during physical activity. He went to the doctor. Based on the recommendations, an MRI scan was ordered and a diagnosis was made: "Aseptic necrosis of the left hip joint"; pharmacological treatment was prescribed. Control MRI scan in 3 months.

The prescribed therapy did not produce any significant improvement. After 1.5 months, the patient sought help from a private practice specialist.

antalgic posture with left-sided C-shaped scoliosis, apex in the thoracic spine and torsion to the right, as well as left hip joint contracture. Using visual diagnostic and Yumeiho techniques, pathologically significant (pelvic) and compensatory regions were identified; the functional difference in the length of the lower extremities, pelvic obliquity and, accordingly, the shift in the centre of gravity were determined. "The flexion test showed partial blockage of the right hip joint. Muscle testing and palpation revealed a compensatory muscle imbalance (name a pair of muscles) (which included scoliotic changes).

The priority complaint was pain. To eliminate pain, the techniques of Classical massage were used, combined with elements of Thai massage, passive movements, PIR and MFR. After feeling relief, the PRR technique was added. After the session, the patient noted positive dynamics every time.

Subsequently, in accordance with the results of motor tests, exercises were selected that were combined with stretching, PIR, PRR and passive movements. The starting positions and ergonomics of Thai massage made it possible to work with a large patient in a passive mode, and organically combine all the elements into one set of therapeutic sessions.

Due to the reduction of the pain syndrome, it became possible to correct the pelvis, change the patient's centre of gravity and redistribute the load on the legs. It became possible to increase the intensity of exercises and retrain the motor stereotype.

After the 10th session, the patient's constant aching pains disappeared, the need for analgesics disappeared, the lameness disappeared, and the range of motion in the left hip joint was restored (the range of motion on the right was also increased). The orthostatic position of the body changed - the left-sided scoliosis disappeared, the pelvic asymmetry and the difference in the length of the lower limbs decreased. In general, the body position became more symmetrical.

Positive changes in the patient's condition made it possible to use exercises with vertical load in alternation with stretching.

After 13 sessions (1.5 months of training), a routine MRI scan was taken, which showed significant positive changes in the bone structures.

After 18 sessions, the patient was given recommendations and was able to exercise independently in the gym, including weight-bearing exercises.

In conclusion, we would like to note that the use of oriental techniques increases the functional reserve of the ODA system. They have a positive effect on adaptive and compensatory mechanisms, which allows them to be used even in the presence of organic, degenerative changes.