[Pathogenesis and diagnosis of osteochondrosis of the spine and its neurologic manifestations: status of the problem and research prospects].

On the basis of a critical analysis of literature data and his own observations the author puts forward a concept of the pathogenesis of vertebral osteochondrosis and attendant neurological disturbances. The article also deals with the diagnosis and prospects of investigation of these fairly prevalent diseases which have a large socio-economical impact.