The first symptoms may appear in 20-30 years, but most often the disease becomes visible in 40 years. It is divided into three categories - osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine, chest and cervix.
Reasons for development
The causes of the onset and development of cervical osteochondrosis are divided into the following factors:
- hereditary predisposition to the disease;
- impaired metabolism, intoxication of the body, infectious diseases;
- Excess weight and added stress on all parts of the spine, including the cervix;
- lack of fluids, vitamins or trace elements, poor quality food;
- spinal cord injuries, bruising, fractures;
- climatic or environmental conditions that adversely affect the body;
- incorrect posture, curvature of the spine;
- flat feet, use of high-heeled shoes;
- sedentary, sedentary lifestyle;
- high activity, requiring frequent changes in body position;
- frequent physical activity in the back;
- staying in an uncomfortable position for a long time;
- stressful situations, nervous overload.
Another category of people prone to cervical osteochondrosis is formed due to objective and external exposure conditions. Heredity, climate, frequent hypothermia - all this contributes to an additional load on the spine. It also includes malnutrition and lack of necessary substances that can prevent osteochondrosis in the cervical spine.
Wrong sleeping position, prolonged immobility, especially in an uncomfortable position, wearing uncomfortable shoes - all this forms another risk group. This also includes pregnant women, especially when carrying several children or an underdeveloped musculoskeletal system.
Stages of development of osteochondrosisThe development of osteochondrosis is divided into four stages. The onset is characterized by the development of pulposus nucleus pathology. Lack of moisture and stress in the cervical spine leads to deformation of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs, and fibrous cracks appear.
Symptoms are usually absent at this stage. Their appearance is reduced to slight pain during prolonged uncomfortable body position, as well as some discomfort during active movement.
With the onset of the second stage of cervical osteochondrosis, the height of the intervertebral discs decreases. This leads to a decrease in the distance between the vertebrae, lowering of the muscles and ligaments.
At this stage, the mobility of the affected vertebrae increases. This is expressed in painful expressive sensations with certain movements and positions. Discomfort can also occur under certain loads.
In the third stage of development of cervical osteochondrosis, prolapse and extensions of the intervertebral discs are formed. Often, the disease is associated with dislocations and osteoarthritis of the respective joints.
This stage of cervical osteochondrosis is often accompanied by stiffness in some movements. Lack of mobility is also manifested, tingling and numbness in the limbs. Neck pain becomes noticeable.
The fourth stage of cervical osteochondrosis is characterized by an attempt by the body to independently correct the increased movement of the vertebrae. At the sites of their contacts, osteophytes form, concentrated in trying to adjust the desired position of the spine.
These bone formations often lead to nerve entrapment. Fibrous ankylosis begins to develop in the intervertebral discs and joints. When the nerves run out, the symptoms of cervical spine osteochondrosis intensify. However, if there are no pins, the signs of the disease may disappear completely.
Symptoms
Symptoms of cervical spine osteochondrosis manifest in different stages in different ways. Many patients in the early stages do not seek medical help.
Cases where consultation with a specialist is necessary include the following signs:
- obsessive, not disappearing at night, pain in the neck, in the area of the eyes and ears, in the back of the head and in the shoulder girdle;
- frequent arm pain, aggravated by physical exertion, muscle weakness;
- Difficulty in hand movement, decreased sensitivity and mobility of hands and fingers;
- numbness, burning, tingling in the hands and feet;
- in the morning, there is a tension in the neck muscles, a feeling of "laziness" arises and low neck movement is found;
- pain when turning and tilting the head, periodically there is a throbbing pain in the neck and back of the head;
- appears headache, localized in the neck and spreads to the crown and temples;
- Frequent dizziness, darkening of the eyes, fainting may occur with a sharp turn of the head;
- tinnitus, the appearance of "flies" in front of the eyes, decreased visual acuity and hearing, numbness of the tongue;
- pain in the heart, the intensity of which depends on behavior and is not relieved by nitroglycerin;
- growth of connective tissue in the cervical spine.
The intensity of the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis can manifest in different ways. Much depends on the location of the complications - depending on the vertebrae that attach the nerve endings, the symptoms will also vary.
If the symptoms of osteochondrosis do not allow you to live and work fully, you should see a doctor.
Diagnosis
If severe symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis are found, they are referred to a local therapist. It can help determine the source of pain and provide referral to a neurologist for further evaluation. A neurologist, depending on the diagnosis, refers to narrower specializations.
The vertebroneurologist deals with all issues in the treatment of the spine. A chiropractor can also help determine the diagnosis. In case of acute pain, they refer to a trauma surgeon.
The process of diagnosing osteochondrosis can be performed manually.
However, one of the following special procedures is used for the final diagnosis:
- cervical spine radiograph;
- myelography;
- neurological examination for limb sensitivity and reflexes;
- computed tomography of the cervix (CT);
- nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR);
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Doppler ultrasound or duplex scan can be prescribed to identify the condition of the vessels in osteochondrosis of the cervical spine. It is emphasized that only a suitable specialist can diagnose the disease.
Self-diagnosis and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is not permitted.
How to treat cervical spine osteochondrosis?
Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is prescribed in the form of complex therapy.
The following methods are included in the general procedure:
- taking medication that eliminates symptoms and promotes recovery;
- physiotherapy - water procedures, electrophoresis and other methods allow you to affect the spine properly;
- Therapeutic gymnastics is considered an integral way of treating osteochondrosis of the cervical spine.
During treatment, alternative, highly specialized techniques can be used - reflexology, massage and manual therapy, osteopathy, hirudo and apitherapy.
The main aspect of treating cervical osteochondrosis is the integrated approach. Depending on the stage of the disease, the main course can last 1-3 months. Furthermore, restorative and strengthening therapy is prescribed, it can be extended for another year.
First Aid
In case of exacerbations of osteochondrosis, first aid is usually reduced to taking medication. For severe pain, use standard pain relievers.
If the effect of such drugs is lacking, they turn to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. However, these drugs can have a negative effect on the gastrointestinal tract. Without consulting a doctor, their use is allowed only in extreme cases.
Pain intensity in cervical osteochondrosis is also relieved with anti-inflammatory pain relievers.
In case of worsening osteochondrosis, no physiotherapy exercises are used - the load can lead to an even greater complication. If the disease has already been diagnosed and the course of treatment is prescribed, follow the doctor's recommendations. Typically, therapy involves a number of tools used to urgently eliminate symptoms.
If this is the first manifestation of the disease - do not postpone the visit to the doctor. Medications can relieve the pain, but thorough diagnosis and treatment will be needed to prevent relapse.
Physical Education
The main cause of cervical osteochondrosis is stress in this part of the spine. They can be expressed both in prolonged immobility with uncomfortable behavior, and in extremely intense movement with a poorly developed musculoskeletal system.
Given this aspect, gymnastics and exercise are the main therapies in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis. You can do them in the morning and during the day, some can be done at work.
The whole complex of actions is created to strengthen the musculoskeletal system, improve blood circulation and restore the movement of the vertebrae. Gymnastics can be used not only for treatment but also for the prevention of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine.
Sitting and Standing Exercises
Gymnastics for the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in the sitting and standing position includes the following actions:
- palm is placed on the forehead, pressed on it with the head, opposing the resistance of the hand to pressure, the procedure is repeated 3-4 times for 7-10 seconds;
- a similar process is done with the back of the head - the head is pressed into the opposite palm, straining the neck muscles;
- then the procedure is performed in the same way with the right and left sides of the head, giving a hand to the temple;
- as an alternative to the hand for the same exercises, you can use a wall, in which case they rest against it with the forehead or back of the head and press for a few seconds;
- the head is thrown back, overcoming the tension of the neck muscles, slowly tilted forward until the chin reaches the sternum, repeat 5-6 times;
- stand (stand) straight, turning the shoulders, slowly turning the head to the maximum possible right and left, repeat 5-6 times;
- chin lowers to the neck, in this position the head slowly turns left and right 5-6 times;
- head tilted slightly back, tilted head left and right, trying to reach the corresponding shoulder with the ear, perform 5 times.
Exercise for the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is repeated regularly. It is especially important for a sedentary lifestyle or for a long time in an uncomfortable position.
Circular head movements are not suitable for charging; such exercises can cause neck injuries.
Lying Exercises
Exercises in the supine position for cervical osteochondrosis consist of the following actions:
- lie on your back, stretching your legs, then pull up to your chest, shaking them with your hands, slowly raise your head, touching your knees to your forehead, and then slowly return to their original position;
- the arms are spread widely to the sides and, raising the body, reach with the right palm to the left and vice versa;
- lying on stomach with legs and arms outstretched, raises head and shoulders, leaning on lower body;
- in the same position, the head turns left and right each time it returns to its original position.
Stretching exercises for the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine are performed 4-5 times, the last - 8-10. When performing any action, they monitor the sensations; if pain occurs, the intensity of the load decreases.
Drug therapy
In the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, taking medication aims to eliminate the symptoms of the disease. Their supportive role focuses on reducing pain, replenishing vitamins, and increasing tissue regeneration.
Drugs used in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis fall into the following categories:
- anti-inflammatory;
- antispasmodic; antioxidants
- ;
- medicines to improve blood supply;
- increased cartilage tissue regeneration.
In the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis, the general list of prescribed medications includes tablets, oils, lotions, and in some cases, injections. In case of significant pain, medications are used to relieve the pain and block the nerve endings.
In the absence of pain and devastating changes, taking medication may be completely unnecessary.
Folk remedies
In treating cervical osteochondrosis, traditional medicine also offers an integrated approach. In addition to decoctions and tinctures, plant-based oils and products are used. Bandages are also made.
The main purpose of folk remedies is to warm the affected area and give the body the vitamins it needs to heal.
Prescription use should be coordinated with your doctor - some may interfere with prescribed medications or procedures.
Decoction and tincture
The following decoctions are prepared for oral administration in the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine:
- celery root is cut through a grater, 3 grams are poured with a liter of boiling water, insist for 8 hours, filtered, consumed before meals three times a day, a teaspoon;
- sunflower root is finely crushed, a glass of raw material is poured with three liters of water, boiled for half an hour, taken after meals in small quantities, helps to remove salts from the body;
- 2 tablespoons yarrow flowers pour boiling water, infuse for 30-40 minutes, drink one tablespoon three times a day, used as an anesthetic, anti-inflammatory and sedative;
- 3 tablespoons of burdock are poured, poured with 250 grams of boiling water, insist for two hours, a tablespoon of honey is filtered and added, a quarter of a glass is drunk 4 times a day before meals;
- using a meat grinder, grind 3 large lemons without pits, 4 cloves of garlic, pour the mixture with two liters of boiling water, rinse on an empty stomach, shaking the jar in advance.
Ngjesh
Lotions and compresses are actively used in the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine:
- sprinkle cottage cheese with vinegar, mix and make a compress on a sore spot, wrapping it in a warm scarf, you can leave it overnight;
- add one gram of propolis, 50 grams of aloe extract, mustard powder to half a liter of vodka, soak the sauce with a solution, adjust it and leave overnight;
- a potato is passed through a grater, mixed with two tablespoons of honey, rubbed into a sore spot and then wrapped in a warm scarf overnight;
- a tablespoon of eucalyptus is poured with a glass of water, boiled for 5 minutes, a spoonful of honey is added, the mixture is applied to the sore spot for two hours.
Ointments
The following recipes are used to rub stains injured by osteochondrosis of the cervical spine:
- mother and stepmother flowers, along with the stalk, are poured with ammonia, they are allowed to stay in a dark place for a month, they are used to lubricate the sore spot;
- prepare a mixture of ginger juice and tincture of pharmacy calendar, for sensitive skin diluted with water in a ratio of 1: 1, used for rubbing before loading, helps relieve inflammation and improve blood circulation;
- half a packet of butter is mixed with a tablespoon of flour and an egg, then a tablespoon of vinegar is added, the mixture is put for a few days in a dark place, the resulting film is thrown away, the solution is used for grinding in case of acute pain.
Massage
In case of cervical osteochondrosis, massage can be an integral part of complex therapy. In this case, a referral to a specialist is prescribed by the neurologist himself. In case of an independent decision regarding massage, it is recommended that you first consult a doctor.
Given the specifics of the disease, massage with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine should be treated with caution. The procedure is prescribed only with a diagnosed disease, on the recommendation of a doctor and the presence of neck pain.
Massage contraindications for cervical osteochondrosis:
- has tumors in the body, regardless of localization;
- active tuberculosis;
- do not cure venereal diseases;
- skin diseases at the site of inflammation, including moles, warts, cracks, scratches;
- for diseases of the circulatory system, massage is included in therapy at the discretion of the doctor;
- aneurysm, osteomyelitis.
If the procedure is assigned through a specialist, no action is required.
Self-massage for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is performed taking into account clear instructions and rules:
- grip area - from the hair growth area to below shoulder level;
- you can operate with one or two hands at a time, depending on comfort;
- a certain sequence of actions must be followed.
The procedure for performing massage for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine includes the following steps:
- for half a minute, with a firmly pressed palm, hit the skin in the area of inflammation;
- movements continue with pressure with the edge of the palm or the pads of the fingers;
- fingers continue to rub, pulling the skin from the sides to the back;
- the skin is already cooked with muscle capture, the movements are kept at an intense level, but without painful sensations;
- To finish, repeat the first action with a gentle palm rub.
It is recommended to repeat each action 6-7 times, over time it will take half a minute of unbearable movement. With osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, self-massage can be difficult, therefore, they turn to friends or relatives for help. However, a specialist remains recommended.
Nutrition
Complex treatment of cervical osteochondrosis includes diet food. It focuses on improving metabolism, as well as saturating the body with the necessary minerals and vitamins that contribute to tissue recovery and regeneration.
The basis of the diet for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine includes:
- dairy and fermented milk products;
- low-fat poultry, fish;
- fresh vegetables and fruits;
- nuts and seeds;
- cereals;
- mushrooms.
Recommended recipes for cervical spine osteochondrosis include fish and meat jellies, favorite meats, aspic dishes. Pay attention to the use of virgin olive oil. Apply it without heat treatment. The food itself is preferably cooked, cooked or steamed.
Foods should be divided 5-6 times. For proper absorption, it is recommended to drink half a liter of juice per day. Preference is given to pure and mineral water, dried fruit compotes, unsweetened fruit drinks, herbal tea.
For osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, limit the consumption of the following products:
- flour and confectionery;
- fatty foods, strong meat soups;
- spicy and salty foods or spices;
- sugar and high-sugar fruits;
- canned food, smoked products; legumes
- .
With osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, consumption of strong black tea, coffee, alcoholic and carbonated products is also limited.
Complications and risks
Advanced cervical osteochondrosis can lead to the following complications:
- herniated intervertebral discs;
- elongation and kyphosis;
- sciatica, salt deposits in the spine;
- spinal cord injury;
- limb atrophy due to insufficient blood supply, paralysis.
The risk of complications in cervical osteochondrosis arises in the absence of treatment of the disease. Lack of medical care, non-compliance with the prescribed course of treatment, ignoring the recommendations - all this provokes new pathologies and can end in complete disability of the patient.
Contraindications for osteochondrosis
If there is a suspicion of developing cervical osteochondrosis or the disease has already been diagnosed, the following actions are not allowed:
- to lift and maintain weights - loads on the spine do not contribute to the treatment in any way;
- to actively engage in sports - running, walking, swimming are useful, however, excessive loads with simulators will only make the situation worse;
- to lead a sedentary lifestyle - prolonged lack of movement, warmth, walking in the fresh air has a detrimental effect on the general condition;
- overeating - often osteochondrosis of the cervical spine develops precisely because of excess weight, it is not worth it to contribute to the worsening of the situation;
- consume a lot of salt and alcohol - salty and spicy foods, as well as alcoholic products should be completely excluded from the diet;
- careless movements and crumbling of joints - such actions often bring relief, however, they are consumed and deform the contact surfaces of the vertebrae;
- sleeps on a high pillow - in this position, the muscles are tense all night, which only complicates the disease;
- sleep in a soft bed - with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, it is recommended to rest on the floor or planks;
- wear uncomfortable shoes, use high heels - lack of full support increases the tension of the spine, often provoking its deformation.
Also, with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, self-diagnosis and self-medication are not allowed. The course of therapy should be prescribed and monitored by a specialist. Without this, it is not worth hoping for a cure at all, in most cases there will be complications.
Folk healers should be avoided, there is no need to place and lie on the spine. Such actions can result in serious injuries and complications. Popular recipes are also used only after consultation with a specialist.
Prevention
Causes of cervical osteochondrosis in most cases are associated with an incorrect lifestyle.
To prevent and prevent such a disease, attention is paid to the following aspects:
- exclude hypodynamics - many sports are suitable for this, including walking, running, skiing, swimming, cycling, as well as gymnastics and regular exercise;
- during "sitting" work, attention is paid to the posture (straight back, relaxed shoulders), the standard position of the arms and legs, as well as the support of the spine by the seat;
- maintaining a stationary position for a long time, stop every 45 minutes to warm up and restore blood circulation;
- for sleep choose an elastic mattress, preferably orthopedic and a pillow not too high;
- when lifting weights, the load is distributed on the legs and arms, it is preferable to lift the weight from a half-assembly, to avoid shaking;
- stick to a diet - a proper diet and fluid intake support metabolism and provide the body with the right trace elements.
Relaxation also refers to the prevention of cervical osteochondrosis. Stress and nervous tension should be avoided, often the development of the disease is accompanied by psychosomatics. Regular visits to the masseur are recommended.