Baastrup's disease: all about this rheumatism

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Article reviewed and approved by Dr. Ibtissama Boukas, physician specializing in family medicine

La lower back pain ou lumbago is one of the common symptoms that occur during daily life. Anyone can be affected, whether young, adult or old. The lumbar stiffness and lower back pain can have various causes, and among them: the Basstrup's disease. It's about a quite rare arthropathy.

What is Baastrup's disease? How is it evolving? Can Baastrup's disease be cured? We will answer these questions in this article.

What is Baastrup's disease?

Deriving its name from Danish radiologist Christian Baastrup, Baastrup's disease is a so-called interspinous contact arthropathy. It is defined by the presence of a joint between the spinous processes. This joint forms in an abnormal way.

As a reminder, the spinous process (also called spinous process) refers to the end of the vertebrae lumbar. In the majority of cases, these are the L4 vertebrae (fourth vertebrate lumbar) and L5 (fifth lumbar vertebra) which are the most affected by this pathology.

This abnormal joint causes pathological friction between the spinous processes which will get bigger. This iterative contact of the processes also alters the ligaments between the spinous processes. And at the same time, the periosteum of thespinous process (whitish membrane that sheaths the bone) becomes particularly irritated.

La Baastrup's disease may also be characterized by bursitis (an inflammation of the bursa). It is a kind of small bag filled with fluid that serves as a cushion between the bone and its tendon. In the context of this pathology, we speak of a interspinous bursitis.

The people with contact interspinous arthropathy are often the elderly and obese people. These people usually present with lumbar hyperlordosis (exaggeration of the curvature towards the back of the lumbar spine) which promotes friction between the spinous processes.

How does Baastrup's disease evolve?

Baastrup's disease is one of the degenerative rheumatic diseases. It can evolve very slowly. It happens that the manifestations are perceived only after several years of evolution. In the majority of cases, theinterspinous contact arthropathy is diagnosed at a late stage.

What you need to know is that it is quite possible to slow down the progression of this degenerative arthropathy. Once the first signs appear and point to the disease, treatment should begin. It is mainly based on kinesitherapy (physiotherapy).

In some cases, especially when the pain becomes too intense, doctors may suggest an operation surgery to treat Basstrup's disease. The intervention will consist in the resection or the ablation of the apophyses which have become pathological.

What are the symptoms of Baastrup's disease?

The patients with Basstrup disease complain most often discomfort or pain in the lower back. This is also the main reason for consultation during this arthropathy.

Low back pain is felt when the subject bends over. Prone position (lying on your stomach) will also trigger these symptoms. The patient will also present with lumbar stiffness which will limit its movements. In the worst cases, the lumbar pain is transfixing. It becomes unbearable to the point of incapacitating the subject.

How to diagnose Baastrup's disease?

Baastrup's disease is suspected in case of lower back pain and stiffness. During the patient examination, the doctor will ask him to perform a movement of flexion and extension of the hip. These movements will both reproduce and accentuate the pain. Palpation of the spinous processes at the lumbar level will also cause sharper pain.

The doctor may request additional tests to confirm Baastrup's disease. They are mainly :

  • A radiograph ;
  • An ultrasound;
  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging);
  • A scanner.

The X-ray and CT scan of the spine will show hyperlordosis. There may also be images of bone condensation. The latter is more important on the spinous processes. We will then have the impression of enjoying an enlargement of these spiny processes. These two imaging techniques also make it possible to view the formation of a new joint.

You can also enjoy an image of the sclerotic spinous processes. In other words, they hardened as a result of repeated irritations. This explains the stiffness in the lumbar vertebra.

The place of MRI in Baastrup's disease

MRI takes a special place in the context of degenerative arthropathy. It makes it possible to objectify a bursitis between the spinous processes: interspinous bursitis.

Magnetic resonance imaging also makes it possible to highlight an alteration in the lumbar muscles and tendons located on either side of the spinal cord. It is possible to encounter these lesions during Baastrup's disease.

Can Baastrup's disease be cured?

Le Baastrup's disease treatment depends in particular on the severity and intensity of the symptoms. Doctors prescribe painkillers first. Usually, anti-inflammatories that are in the group of NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) are recommended.

If oral medications are not enough, it is possible to resort to corticosteroid injections. The product is injected directly inside the painful joint. The analgesic power of injectable drugs is more powerful.

Le basic treatment of interspinous contact arthropathy rests on the physiotherapy (physiotherapy). THE physiotherapist (physiotherapist) recommends specific and targeted movements. The professional can also resort to massages, mobilizations or exercises to relieve lower back pain in Baastrup's disease.

Physiotherapy can also gradually correct hyperlordosis in people who suffer from this pathology. The patient will undergo walking rehabilitation to allow fluidity of movement at the lumbar level. It is important to improve the quality of life.

In addition to the treatments mentioned above, there are several products and accessories available on the market to relieve lower back pain caused by Baastrup's disease. It should be remembered that these tools do not address the cause of the problem, usually provide temporary relief, and therefore should be used sparingly. Among the products recommended by our professionals, we have:

Acupressure Kit Acupressure Mat Cushion - Massage Ball + Pillow + Bag Relieve Back and Neck Pain Muscle Relaxation Acupuncture Post Sport Recovery Anti Stress
  • 【Multifunctional Physiotherapy】The acupressure kit set includes an acupressure mat and pillow, and 2 massage balls. You can use the acupressure set in different ways and on different parts of the body, such as lower back pain, insomnia, chronic stress, fatigue, tension, circulatory disorders, etc.
  • 【Safe and Premium Material】The acupressure mat massager, cushion cover and storage bag are made of 100% cotton, the inside is 21D high-density eco-friendly sponge. The massage nail is made of non-toxic ABS plastic. 100% natural without side effects, hypoallergenic.
  • 【Natural Ancient Indian Healing】 The acupressure mat has 230 massage nails, 6210 massage points, the pillow has 73 massage nails, 1971 massage points. Your weight is evenly distributed into thousands of small pieces to stimulate countless acupuncture points. Ideal for relaxation and promoting circulation. The size of the acupressure mat is 68*42cm, the size of the massage pillow is 37 x 15 x 10cm.

Last updated on 2024-04-14 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API

Comfier Heated Lumbar Belt with Massage - Back Heating Pad, Vibration Heated Massager Belt with Auto Shut Off, Gift for Men/Women/Parents…
  • 🔥BODY WARMING – The heating pillow lumbar consists of a built-in heating pad that heats up quickly to provide warmth to treat symptoms, menstrual cramps and stomach ailments, arthritis, leg pain and more.
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Anodyne® Posture Shirt – Women | Back & Shoulder Posture Corrector | Posture Corrector Tee Shirt | Reduces pain and tension | Medically Tested and Approved | Medium – White
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  • INJURY PREVENTION: Helps prevent shoulder and back problems by providing support and preventing harmful movements. Recommended for everyday situations including sedentary or physical work, sports activities, housework, etc. The product promotes beneficial working positions by stabilizing weak muscles and aiding alignment, neutralizing the gap between joints.

Last updated on 2024-04-14 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API

Everlasting Comfort Lumbar Support - Lumbar Pillow for Desk, Office Chair or Car Seat - Memory Foam Back Cushion - Black
  • Improve unsupportive chairs: The comfort cushion in memory foam material uses body heat to adapt to the curves of the back and provide the lumbar support that is sorely lacking in office chairs
  • Against back pain: Most chairs do not support the back, which causes tension. The ergonomic cushion supports the upper, middle and lower back, for complete comfort
  • Breathable Cover: The chair cushion features a breathable mesh cover that allows air to circulate, preventing heat build-up. Finally enjoy a perfectly fresh seat all day long

Last updated on 2024-04-14 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API

ALDOM Muscle Massage Gun Massage Device Deep Muscle Massager with 30 Adjustable Levels 6 Massage Heads and LCD Display Relieve Aches and Stiffness
  • 30 LEVELS Massage Gun:ALDOM massage gun Choose the speed and massage heads that best suit your needs can quickly eliminate lactic acid produced after exercise, and for everyday relieve muscle pain, back and neck aches and stiffness, greatly reducing the time muscle recovery.
  • Long Battery Life: Equipped with high quality battery, the muscle massager can keep working about 6-8 hours after charging, while the cooling system can effectively remove excess heat, if the battery is low, there will be a red prompt.
  • Less than 45 dB Ultra Low Noise: ALDOM muscle massager gun which features high performance and low noise. features advanced technology and high-torque non-brushed electric motor, Featuring the high-precision mold which tightly connects the machine head and the body, The high-torque motor rotates 1800-4800 times per minute and achieves your tissue to loosen the fascia (connective tissue)

Last updated on 2024-04-14 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API

ECODE Vertebral and lumbar decompressor axial stretching LUMBA PLUS ECO-852
  • LUMBA +: Uses the neurovertebral decompression technique recognized by INSERM, practiced in osteopathy practices and recognized by the Association of Exclusive Osteopaths. Neurovertebral decompression is a surgical or non-surgical procedure that aims to release pressure on the spinal cord or on the nerves of the spine
  • Neurovertebral decompression is a key element in the treatment of back pain such as herniated discs, bulging discs, sciatic pain, disc degeneration and osteoarthritis. Vertebral decompression is a principle increasingly used in the treatment of back pain (nerve sciatica stuck, disc pinching, scoliosis, compression of the vertebrae or low back pain).
  • Let's discover the technique of spinal decompression and see together its effects by stretching against sciatica. Principle of vertebral decompression Vertebral (or neurovertebral) decompression is a gentle treatment used in the event of sciatic nerve stuck, of herniated disc or in case of disc pinching.

Last updated on 2024-04-14 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API

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If these treatments do not bring satisfactory results, it is possible to resort to a functional surgery last resort. It makes it possible to permanently resect the abnormal apophyses of the lumbar region. It is not a radical treatment of Baastrup's disease. Indeed, it is indicated as a last option, but it does not cure the condition.

A functional surgery is quite common in the context of a degenerative pathology. It aims to relieve chronic pain and allow a better quality of life for the patient. After the operation, physiotherapy and rehabilitation are always indicated.

What about natural remedies?

Although they are not supported by solid scientific evidence, several natural products and grandmother's remedies are used to treat the pain associated with Baastrup's disease, in particular for their anti-inflammatory power.

Here is a non-exhaustive list of plants and essential oils that are effective in controlling pain and inflammation:

  • Turmeric : Thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers very powerful, turmeric is one of the most used plants in a culinary and therapeutic context. The composition of turmeric is essentially made of essential oils, vitamins (B1, B2, B6, C, E, K) and trace elements. But it is to its composition rich in curcumin and curcuminoids that we owe them and calm skin of this spice.
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  • Ginger : In addition to the special flavor it brings to the kitchen and its aphrodisiac properties, ginger is a root well known for its anti-inflammatory powers. THE gingerol gives it its anti-inflammatory action. It is an active component acting on the inflammatory pain related to chronic joint inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, rheumatic diseases, etc. It has been proven that this active element is also effective in acting on the inflammation linked to arthritis and sciatica. Ginger also has other benefits thanks to its high potassium content and its richness in trace elements (calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium) and vitamins (provitamin and vitamin B9).
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  • Omega-3s : Omega-3 are polyunsaturated fatty acids that play a very important role in the functioning of our body. They are provided by food in three natural forms: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), alpha linolenic acid (ALA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Beyond their action on the brain and the cardiovascular system, omega-3s prove very effective against inflammation. Indeed, they have the ability to act on the inflammatory mechanisms in osteoarthritis by slowing down cartilage destruction, thus they reduce the intensity of osteoarthritis pain. Since sciatica is most often linked to inflammation secondary to a herniated disc, it can also respond to omega-3s if you consume them regularly. 

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  • Lemon eucalyptus: Eucalyptus is a plant most often used in the form of herbal tea or essential oil. She would have anti-inflammatory effects which give it the ability to act on the bone and joint pain in general and the pain of sciatica in particular.
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  • wintergreen : Wintergreen is a shrub from which a very interesting essential oil is extracted. It is one of the most used essential oils in aromatherapy. This oil extracted from the shrub bearing the same name, is used in massage to relieve sciatica and act like a analgesic. Indeed, it provides a heating effect thanks to its ability toactivate blood circulation locally.
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Remember that these products do not replace medical treatment. Do not hesitate to consult for support adapted to your condition.

Are you looking for solutions to relieve your pain?

Discover the opinion of our team of health professionals on various products available on the market (posture, sleep, physical pain), as well as our recommendations.

References

https://www.vulgaris-medical.com/encyclopedie-medicale/maladie-de-baastrup

https://www.radeos.org/maladie/fiche-syndrome-de-baastrup_1790.html

https://www.notrefamille.com/sante/encyclopedie-sante/maladie-de-baastrup-13881

https://www.concilio.com/rhumatologie-pathologies-du-rachis-maladie-de-baastrup/

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