Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is a disease characterized by damage to the intervertebral discs.
Osteochondrosis of the cervix is one of the most common diseases in the world. Statistically, about 60% of the world's population coped with it, as modern humans suffer from physical inactivity, and also spend a large amount of time in sedentary work. Osteochondrosis manifests itself in the form of damage to the intervertebral cartilage, as well as in reactive processes in adjacent tissues.
The vertebrae of the cervix are much smaller than the vertebrae of other vertebrae, but the load on them is not less. We constantly turn our head, hence the neck is in a systematic motion. In the initial stages, the disease is difficult to recognize, and the underlying manifestations of the disease are often ignored by patients. The result is the onset of osteochondrosis of the cervical collar, which significantly complicates the further treatment process.
A modern clinic successfully treats neck osteochondrosis with non-surgical methods using correction and kinesiotherapy.
Causes of neck osteochondrosis
There are several factors that can contribute to the development of osteochondrosis:
- Physical inactivity is the main reason that precedes the development of a dangerous disease. Complete lack of moderate physical activity leads to degradation of the musculoskeletal system. Insufficient daily activity is not just a problem for office workers and drivers. People who prefer to spend their free time on the computer or watching TV suffer from hypodynamics.
- Excessive physical activity. Most often, professional athletes who are exposed to axial loads on the back suffer from this. Working at the edge of opportunity threatens even novice athletes who train without the supervision of a professional trainer and perform exercises with incorrectly placed techniques.
- Negative factors for posture are walking in high heels and uncomfortable shoes, scoliosis, flat feet, as well as improper body position during sleep.
- Excess weight places an excessive load on the spine, leading to vertebral displacement and wear of cartilaginous structures.
- Rheumatism.
- Disorders of the endocrine system.
- Stress.
- Neck hypothermia.
- A sedentary lifestyle (like drivers and office workers) or excessive physical activity (like athletes).
As a rule, under the influence of these factors, a load occurs on the cervical vertebrae, which causes the formation of muscle spasm. As a result, the circulatory process is disrupted and the metabolism deteriorates, leading to degenerative changes.
An interesting fact: the risk of developing a disease such as osteochondrosis is mainly related to evolutionary changes in the human body. It is about walking straight. Throughout the life cycle, the spine performs the function of the "nucleus" of our body. The vertebrae, pressing on the cartilaginous discs, gradually consume them, so the connective tissue degrades. Because of this, osteochondrosis is often felt in old age.
The symptoms and treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine will depend mainly on the reasons that provoked the onset of the disease. To develop an individual therapeutic plan, doctors perform a series of examinations. Self-medication for neck pain is strongly discouraged. Wrong massages, medicines or methods of traditional medicine can worsen the situation and lead to a host of irreparable consequences!
Cervical osteochondrosis: symptoms and treatment
Manifestations of a dangerous disease depend on 2 main factors:
- Type of load on the cervical spine.
- The site of damage to the cartilaginous structure of the intervertebral disc.
Nerve roots perform a large number of functions, therefore, the symptoms of damage to their individual parts can vary greatly. Furthermore, you need to consider the stage of development of the disease. There are 4 of them, each subsequent one is heavier than the previous one.
Osteochondrosis of the cervix 1 degree
This stage is called preclinical and is poorly expressed, which is why patients attribute the symptoms to stress, lack of sleep, and other seemingly unserious problems. The spine begins to defend itself against "destructive" movements and excessive stress, so people begin to feel discomfort.
The main symptoms are:
- headache
- discomfort in the neck, shoulders and arms
- slight visual impairment
- a slight decrease in neck motor activity
One of the most obvious symptoms of the preclinical stage of cervical osteochondrosis is the constant tension of the neck muscles. The muscles work quickly, which leads to a feeling of tolerable pain, as well as a crack when you turn / tilt your head.
Since the above problems do not cause much concern, most patients prefer to let the situation take its course. In fact, it is already necessary to start treatment of cervical spine osteochondrosis, because the earlier the therapy is started, the more effective it will be.
Second degree cervical osteochondrosis
In this case, patients begin to feel noticeable pain when tilting / turning their head. Often, uncomfortable sensations spread to the arms, shoulder joints and hands. Problems with the state of the nervous system begin to appear: a person becomes irritable, shrewd, his daily ability to work is significantly reduced. The basic symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in women are almost identical to the symptoms of problems with the reproductive system (weakness, fatigue, apathetic mood and much more).
Despite the obvious signs of disease development, it is still possible to get rid of neck osteochondrosis. First of all, doctors work to eliminate the risk of hernias, which lead to a deterioration in limb mobility and blood supply to the brain.
The main symptoms are:
- severe pain in the neck
- tinnitus
- visual impairment
- decreased skin sensitivity of the shoulders and arms
- deterioration of tendon reflexes
Osteochondrosis of the cervix 3 degrees
At this stage of development, the disease is already considered neglected. Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in stage 3 is more difficult, as the destruction / deformation of cartilaginous structures is often irreversible. The pain syndrome is becoming stronger, which is associated with the active development of the hernia and the rubbing of the vertebral bone tissues against each other.
In addition to pain, the patient experiences weakness and complains of dizziness. The reason for this is the violation of large vessels and nerves that pass through the spine. The brain receives insufficient amounts of nutrition and oxygen, which can lead to blurring of consciousness. The pain radiates to the upper extremities, there is a feeling of weakness in the arms. Another clear sign of grade 3 osteochondrosis is loss of tenderness in the fingers as well as tenderness in them.
The main symptoms are:
- added pain
- cervical spine hernia
- very weak tendon reflexes
- paralysis of the upper limbs
Grade 4 cervical osteochondrosis
The cartilaginous tissues of the intervertebral discs have already undergone major changes due to destruction. In stage 4 of the disease, in 99% of cases there are extensions and hernias, which negatively affect the patient's condition. The body begins independent recovery and "builds" tissue in areas of disc damage. As a result, the pillar itself loses its mobility.
While the nerves and blood vessels are congested, the person loses coordination of movements. Drowsiness, apathy and pain only intensify. Patients often complain of tinnitus in the ears. Furthermore, stage 4 cervical osteochondrosis threatens a number of the following consequences:
- Cerebral ischemia, the risk of developing stroke in the spine. This is due to the strong compression of the vertebral arteries.
- Impaired perception of the world around and systematic loss of consciousness. The reason is the constriction of blood vessels and insufficient blood supply to the cerebral cortex.
- Fatal result. A catastrophic consequence can arise as a result of spinal cord constriction.
The main symptoms are:
- depression of brain activity
- lack of coordination
- increased dizziness
- PALSY
- hearing and vision loss
- angina pectoris, shortness of breath
How to treat cervical osteochondrosis: the diagnostic phase
Before beginning the elimination of the disease, doctors perform a comprehensive examination of the patient's cervical spine. This is necessary to prove the fact of the presence and neglect of the disease. Diagnosis consists of several stages:
- X-ray. This is a visual way to determine the location of beads as well as changes in their mobility.
- Laboratory research. With the help of tests, doctors diagnose spinal disorders as well as make a final diagnosis.
- CT. This is a modern technique for estimating ruptures and changes in the height of intervertebral discs. Also, computed tomography helps to track the instability of individual vertebrae.
- MRI. The presented phase of the examination is performed to determine the condition of the nerve roots, the quality of blood circulation, as well as the pathological changes in the cartilage / bone structures.
- Differential diagnosis. This includes an ultrasound scan, a cardiogram, and several other procedures. They are needed so as not to confuse osteochondrosis with other diseases that have identical symptoms. These include diseases of the urinary system, all kinds of spinal deformities, hip injuries, as well as disorders of the central nervous system.
Determining the symptoms and treating cervical osteochondrosis is impossible without a comprehensive diagnosis. The sooner it is performed, the more effective the therapy will be. If you find symptoms of the disease, visit your GP as soon as possible. He will provide referrals for meetings with specialists of narrower profiles: neurologist and orthopedist. In some cases, it may be necessary to consult a cardiologist if the signs of the disease overlap with the suspicion of angina pectoris or ischemia of the heart muscle.
In modern clinics, successful diagnosis and treatment of neck osteochondrosis is performed based on the use of kinesiotherapy. With the help of this healing technique, patients, by performing a set of physical exercises on special exercise machines for recovery, significantly improve their health.
Basic methods of treating cervical osteochondrosis in women and men
A qualitative and consistent result in the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine can only be achieved with an integrated approach to the problem. The effectiveness of recovery depends largely on the mood of the patient, who will need to completely review their lifestyle, diet, sleep and wakefulness.
It is not at all possible to treat osteochondrosis of the cervical spine independently in women and men, as the underlying symptoms of the disease can signal the development of a completely different disease. Medications chosen without the knowledge of the doctor can seriously aggravate the situation. Even the elementary taking of pain medication does not always have the expected effect, which proves once again the need for prior consultation with a specialist.
Elimination of pain exacerbations
The disease often manifests itself in the form of a stabbing, aching and tingling pain syndrome. The main task of the doctor is to alleviate your suffering, therefore, first of all, specialists prescribe:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs;
- Vitamins;
- pain relievers;
- Chondroprotectors.
The last category of drugs aims to restore cartilage structures, which is especially important in the advanced stages of the disease. Furthermore, patients are prescribed medications to relieve muscle spasms and improve blood flow to the body.
Therapeutic gymnastic exercises
Physical therapy specialists know how to get rid of cervical osteochondrosis in the most affordable ways. Exercise therapy is one of the most effective methods of treating osteochondrosis, which can also be used at home. The intensity of the exercise in this case does not play any role. Regularity of moderate physical activity will help to achieve the result. Here is the effect of the exercises:
- Strengthen the muscles in the neck, which are responsible for supporting the weakened vertebrae.
- Stimulation and normalization of blood supply to the body, which is especially important for the cerebral cortex.
- Increase overall tone, energy load, restore a person's productivity and work ability.
Exercise therapy classes are allowed on a daily basis. The set of exercises includes all types of rotations and tilting of the head. With the right level of physical fitness, the level of difficulty increases and the movements of the hands are related to work. The advantage of therapeutic gymnastic elements is that they can also be used in the workplace. But remember that they can be performed only after the acute pain syndrome has been eliminated.
As an added burden, doctors recommend that patients visit the pool, as swimming relieves stress on the spine and relieves stress from the intervertebral discs. Shown and worked with light dumbbells to strengthen the shoulder girdle.
Physiotherapy
There are many methods of physiotherapy:
- Electrophoresis.
- Magneto, laser and shock wave therapy.
- Mud therapy.
- Medicinal baths and showers.
The above are just the main therapeutic methods aimed at restoring the blood supply to the affected spine, eliminating inflammation, pain and slowing down the ossification process of the neck.
Massage
Treatment of cervical spine osteochondrosis with massage is widespread throughout the world. But this method should be used very carefully, as a harsh and improper impact on the damaged parts of the neck can lead to a worsening of the condition. Before making an appointment with a masseur, you should consult your doctor.
Thanks to the impact of the hands on the injured area, muscle tone is reduced, which leads to the removal of painful spasms. It also improves blood circulation, restores clarity of thought and overall well-being of the patient.
Surgery
The late stage of disease development leads to the formation of serious intervertebral hernias as well as a narrowing of the lumen of the spine. Treatment of the patient in this case may require surgical intervention. The surgeon decides if an operation is necessary. It also determines the complex of preparatory measures, the period of recovery and rehabilitation after surgery.
Most surgical interventions involve the removal of the resulting hernias as well as the replacement of damaged vertebrae.
Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in the clinic
Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in a professional clinic involves the use of exclusively non-surgical methods. Specialists work according to a unique technique developed based on the principles of kinesiotherapy. Patients who turn to us for help are treated with a set of physical exercises in a specially equipped room.
Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is done according to an individually developed program. The therapeutic effect is not only on a specific part of the spine, but also on the internal organs. The process of medication-free and non-surgical treatment is difficult, but we provide comprehensive support to patients, help them become more determined and reconsider their attitude towards their disease.
From this the healing process is built:
- Trainings in the rehabilitation room at least 2-3 times a week.
- Therapeutic gymnastics Parterre.
- Thermotherapy according to individual indications.
- Pain relief with ice massage.
- Therapeutic / restorative massage.
- Adaptive exercises for work at home.
- Micro-anatomical ultrasound studies to track recovery over time.
- Personal consultation with specialists of the kinesitherapy clinic.
Prevention of osteochondrosis
Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in the context of modern medicine involves many effective methods. But it is much better not to let this problem appear at all than to deal with its elimination. There is a set of preventive measures that will minimize the risk of developing and developing a dangerous disease:
- Take a hot shower for 10 minutes every day. A regular visit to the spa / sauna is also recommended. Please note that these recommendations are only suitable for people without cardiovascular health problems.
- Go swimming and take regular walks in the fresh air at a relaxed pace. Physical inactivity is one of the leading causes of diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
- Reject excessive physical exertion to the limit of human capabilities. This is especially true when working out in the gym. Critical axial loads on the spine lead to elongation.
- Try to avoid back strokes, especially if you are over 30 years old.
- Review your diet. Try to exclude the consumption of sweets, flour, salt and sugar. Reducing the caloric content of foods allows you to avoid gaining excess weight, which puts extra stress on the spine.
- If you work in the office and spend a lot of time on the computer, take care of buying a special chair with support for the waist and neck. Try to do basic warm-up exercises every 60 minutes.
- In case the pain appears after waking up, consider buying an orthopedic mattress and pillow. If possible, get a bed with a flat, firm surface.
- To avoid degenerative and dystrophic changes in the cervical spine, visit a professional masseur at least 2-3 times a year. Neck and collar massage is one of the most effective preventative measures.
- Women should minimize walking in high-heeled shoes, as this interferes with the natural position of the spine. With flat feet diagnosed, it is recommended to buy special shoes or insoles, as orthopedic products correct the position of the foot and relieve unnecessary stress from the spine.
And:
- you should visit the bathroom regularly
- you should give up bodybuilding, which can contribute to the lengthening of the cervical disc
- gentle exercises can be a good prevention of the disease
result
Treatment of osteochondrosis in a professional clinic is done under the strict supervision of qualified specialists. Doctors adhere to an integrated approach to working with patients and even deal with the advanced stages of the disease. If you notice symptoms of osteochondrosis, you do not need to be patient, self-medicate and delay a visit to the doctor. Start your journey towards a healthy, happy life!