What is Osteochondrosis?

Osteochondrosis refers to any of a number of diseases that destroy bone tissue. The condition affects growing bone, or epiphysis, and is therefore generally found in the joints of children and teenagers. A lack of blood supply to the bone tissue destroys it, and though it is gradually replaced over a number of years, growth progress is delayed. It is sometimes also referred to as osteochondritis.

The underlying causes of osteochondrosis are unknown. Some possible culprits are genetics, rapid bone growth, or poor diet. In some cases, stress and overuse of the joint seems to play a role.

Any bone in the body can be affected, but some areas tend to be afflicted more often than others. Osteochondrosis occurring in those areas often has named diseases associated with it. The most common is Legg-Calve-Perthes syndrome, which affects the hip joint. Some others include Freiburg's disease and Kohler's disease, both of which affect bones in the feet, and Panner's disease, which affects the elbow.

Symptoms of osteochondrosis typically include pain, tenderness, and sometimes swelling at the site of the bone loss. Depending where the condition manifests, a patient's range of movement can be decreased. One rare form of the disease, osteochondritis dissecans, causes irregularities and fragmentation of the bone and cartilage which can lead to stiffness and locking of the joint. Scheuermann's disease, which occurs in the spine, may cause curvature of the spine and an inability to correct one's posture.

A physical examination by a doctor is the first step in diagnosing the condition. Follow-up with x-rays typically comes next to confirm diagnosis and determine the extent of the damage. A bone scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be useful in some cases as well.

Treatments can vary, and often depend on which bones are involved. Limiting pressure on the site until the disease runs its course is usually recommended. Sometimes a brace or cast can be used to support the bone and limit bone deterioration. Physical therapy and surgery may be necessary to help strengthen the area and repair damage. In some cases, no treatment may be required.

The outcome for people with osteochondrosis can also vary significantly, depending on where it occurs in the body and when it is diagnosed. Some forms of the disease cause relatively little damage, and patients can expect to make a near complete recovery over time. Other forms can lead to complications such as deformity, arthritis, or joints that require replacement.