Parrot beaks, as popularly known osteophytes that arise in the vertebrae of the spine, cause intense back pain and tingling, which can arise in the arms or legs.
The disease, scientifically defined by osteophytosis, is called a parrot's beak because when you do a x-ray of the spine they have the shape of a hook that is similar to the beak of that bird. Osteophytosis is getting worse over the years and has no cure, however there are treatments that may include pain relievers and physiotherapy to relieve pain.
Main symptoms
Some of the symptoms that may indicate the presence of 'parrot beaks' include:
- Severe pain located on the back or radiating to the thigh, especially when moving;
- Sensation of tingling in the legs when it develops in the lumbar region or in the arms if it is located in the cervical;
- Decreased muscle strength .
These symptoms are common to other osteoarticular diseases mainly of the spine and to confirm the diagnosis it is essential to go to the orthopedist to perform an X-ray of the spine or MRI.
Through these imaging examinations, the doctor detects the wear of the intervertebral disc, approximation between the vertebrae and the formation of prominences in the lateral region of the vertebrae similar to the parrot's beak.
How is the treatment?
To relieve the pain and discomfort that this problem causes the doctor may recommend the use of analgesics and anti-inflammatories such as Diclofenac. However, a correct posture should be maintained to avoid worsening of the disease, and in some cases it may also be necessary to undergo physiotherapy at least 4 times a week to improve posture and decrease pain. See how not to damage the spine.
In more severe cases, surgery may be needed to correct spinal misalignment.
Watch the video for some tips that can help relieve back pain at home:
How they form
Due to the aging and bad postures over the years, the intervertebral disc causes the vertebrae to become very close, leading to the formation of new bone structures that form at the edges of the vertebrae. These new structures are scientifically called osteophytes and are a way for the body to attempt to defend itself.
Usually, parrot beaks result from poor postures over several years. However, they can also arise due to problems such as hernias, osteoarthritis, scoliosis, autoimmune diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis, for example.
This problem is most common from the age of 45 due to wear of the discs of the spine that occurs with aging. In addition, it is more common when you are overweight, you do not practice physical activity nor have you ever practiced and you have suffered trauma in the spine or if you have a rheumatic disease.
How to avoid
To avoid the formation of it is important to have some care, such as:
- Maintain a correct posture when sitting, walking and sleeping;
- Avoid picking up on high loads;
- Have an adequate weight and, if necessary, lose weight;
- Practice regular physical activity, especially exercises with little impact like water aerobics, Pilates or cycling.
So, for those who already have a parrot beak in the spine, the best tip is to take care not to get worse and to do physiotherapy to reduce the back pain.
