M42: Spinal osteochondrosis

M42.0: Juvenile osteochondrosis of spine

Juvenile osteochondrosis of the spine is a condition that affects children and teenagers, as their bones are still growing. It occurs when there's a temporary disruption in the blood supply to the bone in the spine, known as the vertebrae. Without adequate blood, the area of the bone begins to die and may break off causing pain and potentially altering the normal development of the spine. Symptoms can include back pain that seems to worsen with activity, and improves with rest, and in some cases, a noticeable curvature of the spine. The pain might also radiate to other parts of the body, such as the buttocks or legs. It’s important to note that the condition is not a form of osteoporosis or related to any infectious processes. The exact cause of juvenile osteochondrosis of the spine is not known, but it is thought that repeated trauma or rapid growth could play a role.