Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine

Osteochondrosis is a degenerative disease of the spine, manifested by deformation of bone tissue and intervertebral discs.

The first symptoms may appear as early as 20-30 years, but more often the disease becomes noticeable by 40 years. It is divided into three categories - osteochondrosis of the lumbar, chest and cervical spine.

Reasons for improvement

The causes and development of cervical osteochondrosis are divided into the following factors:

• hereditary predisposition to the disease;
• impaired metabolism, body poisoning, infectious diseases;
• overweight and increased stress in all parts of the spine, including the cervix;
• lack of fluid, vitamins or trace elements, poor quality nutrition;
• spinal injuries, bruises, fractures;
• climatic or environmental conditions that adversely affect the body;
• incorrect posture, curvature of the spine;
• use of flat feet, high heels;
• sedentary, sedentary lifestyle;
• high activity that requires frequent posture changes;
• frequent physical activity on the spine;
• stays in an awkward position for a long time;
• stressful situations, nervous overload.

The appearance of osteochondrosis is often associated with professional activities. Constant physical activity, a high level of mobility, and sedentary work are the main risk groups.

Another category of people prone to osteochondrosis of the neck develops due to objective and external conditions of exposure. Heredity, climate, frequent hypothermia - all contribute to the additional strain on the spine. This includes malnutrition and lack of necessary substances that can prevent osteochondrosis of the cervical spine.

Improper sleeping, prolonged immobility, especially in uncomfortable situations, wearing uncomfortable shoes - all are another risk group. This includes pregnant women, especially if they carry more children or an underdeveloped musculoskeletal system.

Stages of osteochondrosis development

The development of osteochondrosis is divided into four stages. The first is characterized by the development of pathology of the nucleus pulposus. Lack of moisture and stress in the cervical spine leads to deformity of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs, and fibrous cracks appear.

Symptoms are usually absent at this stage. Their manifestations are reduced to minor pain in prolonged discomfort of the body, as well as some discomfort during active movement.

By the beginning of the second stage of cervical osteochondrosis, the height of the intervertebral discs decreases. This leads to a reduction in the distance between the sagging of the vertebrae, muscles and ligaments.

At this stage, the mobility of the affected vertebrae increases. This is expressed by painful feelings with certain movements and positions. Discomfort can also manifest itself under certain loads.

In the third stage of the development of cervical osteochondrosis, prolapses and protrusions of the intervertebral discs are formed. Often, the disease is associated with dislocations and arthrosis of the corresponding joints.

This stage of cervical osteochondrosis is often accompanied by the rigidity of certain movements. Lack of mobility is also manifested, with tingling and numbness in the limbs. The neck pain becomes clear.

The fourth stage of cervical osteochondrosis is directed by the body to independently correct the increased mobility of the vertebrae. At their point of contact, osteophytes form, which are directed to try to fix the desired position of the spine.

These bony formations often lead to nerve sticking. Fibrous ankylosis begins to develop in the intervertebral discs and joints. When the nerve endings are constricted, the symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine increase. However, if there is no sting, the signs of the disease may disappear completely.

Symptoms

Symptoms of cervical spine osteochondrosis manifest themselves in different ways at different stages. In the early stages, many patients do not seek medical attention.

Cases where a specialist is required include the following symbols:

• obsessive, does not disappear at night, pain in the neck, eye and ear area, headrest and shoulder girdle;
• frequent pain in the arms, aggravated by physical exertion, muscle weakness;
• Difficulty moving hands, decreased sensitivity and mobility of hands and fingers;
• numbness, burning sensation, tingling in the hands and feet;
• morning there is tension in the neck muscles, a feeling of "laziness" and low mobility of the neck;
• pain when turning and tilting the head, periodically throbbing pain in the neck and back of the head;
• headache appears, localizes in the cervix, and spreads to the crown and temples;
• Frequent dizziness, darkening of the eyes, fainting may occur with a sharp turn of the head;
• tinnitus, appearance of "flies" before the eyes, decreased visual acuity and hearing, numbness of the tongue;
• heart pain, the intensity of which depends on posture and is not relieved by nitroglycerin;
• increase in connective tissue in the cervical spine.

The intensity of symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis can manifest itself in different ways. Much depends on the localization of the complications - depending on which vertebrae the nerve endings pinch, the symptoms also vary.

If the symptoms of osteochondrosis do not allow you to live a full life and work, you should see a doctor.

Diagnostics

If severe symptoms of osteochondrosis of the neck are observed, a local therapist should be consulted. It can help identify the source of the pain and provide a referral to a neurologist for further evaluation. The neurologist is referred to narrower disciplines depending on the diagnosis.

The spinal cord physician deals with all aspects of spinal treatment. The chiropractor can also help determine the diagnosis. In case of acute pain, refer to a traumatology surgeon.

The process of diagnosing osteochondrosis can also be performed manually.

However, one of the following special procedures is used for the final diagnosis:

• X-ray of the cervical spine;
• myelography;
• neurological examination for limb sensitivity and reflexes;
• computed tomography (CT) of the cervical spine;
• nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR);
• magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Doppler ultrasound or duplex scanning may be prescribed in osteochondrosis of the cervical spine to identify the condition of blood vessels. They emphasize that only a proper professional can diagnose the disease.

Self-diagnosis and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is not permitted.

How to treat cervical spine osteochondrosis?

Treatment of cervical spinal osteochondrosis is prescribed in the form of complex therapy.

The following procedure is the general procedure:

• taking medications that eliminate symptoms and promote healing;
• physiotherapy - aqueous procedures, electrophoresis and other methods allow the spine to be properly affected;
• therapeutic gymnastics is an organic way to treat cervical spine osteochondrosis.

Alternative, very special methods can be used during the treatment - 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 meal can last from 1 to 3 months. In addition, restorative and strengthening therapy is prescribed, which can last for another year.

First Aid

In case of worsening osteochondrosis, first aid is usually limited to taking medication. In case of severe pain, use standard analgesics.

If the effects of such drugs are lacking, they turn to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. However, these drugs can have a negative effect on the gastrointestinal tract. They should only be used in extreme cases without consulting a doctor.

In osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, the intensity of pain is also relieved with anti-inflammatory analgesics.

If osteochondrosis worsens, no physiotherapy exercises are used - the load can lead to even greater complications. If the disease has already been diagnosed and treatment is prescribed, follow your doctor's recommendations. Typically, therapy includes a number of means for the immediate elimination of symptoms.

If this is the first manifestation of the disease - do not delay your visit to the doctor. Medications can relieve pain, but full diagnosis and treatment will be needed to prevent relapse.

Physical Education

The main cause of osteochondrosis of the neck is stress in this part of the spine. They can be expressed both in prolonged immobility, uncomfortable posture, and in too intense mobility with a poorly developed musculoskeletal system.

Considering this aspect, exercise and physical exercise are the most important therapies in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis. You can do them in the morning and during the day, you can do some at work.

The whole complex of actions is designed to strengthen the musculoskeletal system, improve blood circulation and restore vertebral mobility. Gymnastics can be used not only for treatment but also for the prevention of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine.

Sitting and standing exercises

Exercise for the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in a sitting and standing position includes the following operations:

• the palm is placed on the forehead, pressed with the head against the resistance of the hand to the pressure, the procedure is repeated 3-4 times for 7-10 seconds;
• a similar process occurs in the back of the head - the head is pressed against the opposite palm, straining the neck muscles;
• then the procedure is performed in the same way on the right and left sides of the head, reaching out to the temple;
• as an alternative to the hand, you can use a wall for the same exercises, in which case you rest on it with your forehead or the back of your head and press it for a few seconds;
• throw the head back, overcoming the tension in the neck muscles, slowly tilting forward until the chin reaches the sternum, repeat 5-6 times;
• stand (sit) straight, turn your shoulders, slowly turn your head as far to the right and left as possible, repeat 5-6 times;
• the chin sinks to the neck, in this position the head also turns slowly to the right and left 5-6 times;
• throw your head back slightly, tilt your head left and right, try to reach the right shoulder with your ear, do it five times.

The practice of treating cervical osteochondrosis is repeated regularly. Particularly relevant for a sedentary lifestyle or for long periods of discomfort.

Circular movement of the head is not suitable for charging, such exercises can cause neck injuries.

Lying exercises

Recurrent exercises for osteochondrosis of the neck consist of the following activities:

• lie on your back, stretching your legs, then pulling you to your chest, clasping your hands, slowly raising your head, touching your knees with your forehead, and then slowly return to their original position;
The
• arms are widely spread on the sides and, lifting the body, extend to the left with the right palm, and vice versa;
• With your legs and arms outstretched on your stomach, lift your head and shoulders, leaning on your lower body;
• In the same position, the head is rotated to the right and left each time it returns to its original position.

Exercises for the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine are performed 4-5 times, the last - 8-10. When performing any action, feelings are monitored, if pain occurs, the intensity of the load decreases.

Medication

In the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, medications are taken to eliminate the symptoms of the disease. Their supportive role is focused on reducing pain, replenishing vitamins, and enhancing tissue regeneration.

Medicines used to treat osteochondrosis of the neck fall into the following categories:

• anti-inflammatory;
• antispasmodic;
• antioxidants;
• drugs to improve blood supply;
• Increased cartilage tissue regeneration.

The general list of prescribed drugs for the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine includes tablets, ointments, creams, 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 medications can be completely unnecessary.

Folk remedies

Traditional medicine also offers an integrated approach to the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis. In addition to decoctions and tinctures, ointments based on herbs and products are used. They also make compressions.

The main goal of treatment with folk remedies is to warm the affected area and provide the body with the vitamins it needs to recover.

Prescription use should be coordinated with your doctor - some may interfere with prescribed medications or procedures.

Potions and tinctures

In osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, the following decoctions are prepared for oral administration:

• celery root is chopped through a grater, pour 3 grams of a liter of boiling water, stick to it for 8 hours, strain, consume three times a day before meals, a teaspoon;
The roots of
• sunflower are crushed into small pieces, a glass of raw material is poured with three liters of water, boiled for half an hour, taken in small quantities after a meal, helps to remove salts from the body;
• Pour 2 tablespoons of yarrow with boiling water, infuse for 30-40 minutes, drink one tablespoon three times a day, use as anesthetic, anti-inflammatory and sedative;
• Crush 3 tablespoons of burdock, pour 250 grams of boiling water, stick for two hours, filter and add a spoonful of honey, drink a glass quarter four times daily before meals;
• with a meat grinder grind 3 large, pitted lemons, 4 cloves of garlic, pour the mixture with two liters of boiling water, drink on an empty stomach, shake the bottle beforehand.

Compress

Lotions and compresses are actively used to treat cervical osteochondrosis:

• pour cottage cheese with vinegar, mix and make a compress in a sore spot, wrapped in a warm scarf, you can leave it overnight;
• add half a liter of vodka to a gram of propolis, 50 grams of aloe extract, mustard powder, soak the dressing, fix 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;
• pour a tablespoon of eucalyptus with a glass of water, boil for 5 minutes, add a tablespoon of honey, put the mixture on the sore spot for two hours.

Ointments

The following recipes are used to rub sore spots with cervical spine osteochondrosis:

• the flowers of the mother and stepmother, together with the stems, are poured with ammonia, left to settle in a dark place for a month, used to lubricate the sore spot;
• is ​​a mixture of ginger juice and pharmacy marigold tincture, diluted 1: 1 with water for sensitive skin, used for rubbing before filling, helps relieve inflammation and improve blood circulation;
• Mix half a packet of butter with a tablespoon of flour and an egg, then add a spoonful of vinegar, infuse the mixture for a few days in a dark place, discard the resulting film, use the solution for grinding in case of acute pain.

Massage

In cervical osteochondrosis, massage can be an integral part of complex therapy. In this case, the referral to a specialist is prescribed by the neurologist himself. If you have an independent decision about a massage, it is advisable to see a doctor first.

Given the nature of the disease, massages with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine should be treated with caution. The procedure is prescribed only for a diagnosed disease, on the recommendation of a doctor, and for the presence of neck pain.

Massage contraindications for osteochondrosis of the neck:

• there are tumors in the body, regardless of localization;
• active tuberculosis;
• untreated venereal diseases;
• skin diseases at the site of inflammation, including moles, warts, cracks, abrasions;
• In the case of diseases of the circulatory system, massage is included in the therapy at the discretion of the doctor;
• aneurysm, ostiomyelitis.

If the procedure is assigned through a specialist, no action is required.

Self-massage in cervical spine osteochondrosis follows clear instructions and rules:

• clamping area - from the hair growth zone to the level below the shoulder;
• Depending on your comfort, you can move with one or both hands at the same time;
• A certain sequence of actions must be followed.

The procedure for performing a massage in osteochondrosis of the cervical spine includes the following steps:

• stroke the skin in the area of ​​inflammation with the palm pressed tightly for half a minute;
• movements are continued by pressure with the edge of the palm or the pads of the fingers;
• the fingers continue rubbing and pull the skin from their sides to the spine;
• the skin is already kneaded by grabbing the muscles, the movements remain at an intense level, but without painful feelings;
• To finish, repeat the first operation with a light palm rub.

It is recommended to repeat each operation 6-7 times, with half a minute of hurried movements required. With osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, self-massage can run into difficulties, so they turn to friends or relatives for help. However, a specialist is still recommended.

Nutrition

Complex treatment of osteochondrosis of the neck involves dietary nutrition. It focuses on improving metabolism as well as saturating the body with the necessary minerals and vitamins that help restore and regenerate tissues.

Basics of a cervical osteochondrosis diet:

dairy products and fermented dairy products;
• low-fat poultry, fish;
• fresh vegetables and fruits;
• nuts and seeds;
• cereals;
• mushrooms.

Recommended recipes for cervical spine osteochondrosis include fish and meat gels, jelly meats, and aspic foods. Be sure to use virgin olive oil. Use without heat treatment. The food itself is preferable to boil, bake or steam.

Meals should be divided 5-6 times. It is recommended to drink half a liter of fluid a day for proper absorption. Preference is given to clean and mineral water, dried fruit compotes, unsweetened fruit drinks, and herbal tea.

Limits the consumption of the following products in osteochondrosis of the cervical spine:

• flour and confectionery;
• fatty foods, strong broths;
• spicy and savory foods or spices;
• sugar and high sugar fruits;
• canned food, smoked products;
• legumes.

With osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, the consumption of strong black tea, coffee, alcohol and carbonated products is also limited.

Complications and Dangers

Advanced cervical osteochondrosis can lead to the following complications:

• herniated intervertebral discs;
• prominence and kyphosis;
• radiculitis, salt deposits in the spine;
• spinal cord stroke;
• limb atrophy due to insufficient blood supply, paralysis.

In osteochondrosis of the cervix, the risk of complications arises in the absence of treatment for the disease. Lack of medical care, non-adherence to the prescribed course of treatment, disregard of the recommendations - all this causes new pathologies and can lead to the complete disability of the patient.

Contraindications to osteochondrosis

If osteochondrosis of the neck is suspected or diagnosed, the following procedures are not permitted:

• for lifting and carrying weights - loads on the spine do not contribute to the treatment in any way;
• actively playing sports - running, walking, swimming are useful, but excessive loads with simulators only make the situation worse;
• Leading a sedentary lifestyle - a prolonged lack of exercise, warming up, walking in the fresh air has a detrimental effect on general condition;
• overeating - often the development of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is caused by being overweight, it is not worth contributing to the aggravation of the situation;
• consumes a lot of salt and alcohol - salty and spicy foods as well as alcoholic products should be completely excluded from the diet;
• sloppy movements and cracking of joints - such actions often bring relief but wear and deform the contact surfaces of the vertebrae;
• sleeps on a high pillow - in this situation 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 spine tension, often provoking its deformation.

In addition to osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, self-diagnosis of the disease and self-medication are not permitted. The course of therapy should be prescribed and monitored by a specialist. Without it, it is not worth hoping for a cure at all, in most cases there are complications.

Folk healers should be avoided, there is no need to tie and stretch the spine. Such actions can cause serious injuries and complications. Folk recipes are also used only after consultation with a specialist.

Prevention

The causes of cervical osteochondrosis are in most cases associated with improper lifestyle.

To prevent and prevent such a disease, we pay attention to the following aspects:

• rules out hypodynamics - many sports are suitable for this, including walking, jogging, skiing, swimming, cycling, and gymnastics and regular exercise;
• during "sitting" work, attention is paid to posture (straight back, loose shoulders), the normal position of the arms and legs, and support for the spine from the side of the seat;
• pause to warm up and restore blood circulation every 45 minutes while standing still for a long time;
• a flexible mattress, preferably orthopedic, and a not too high pillow for sleep are chosen;
• When lifting weights, the load is distributed on the legs and arms, it is more advantageous to lift the weight from half-squatting, to avoid twitching;
• follow a diet - proper diet and fluid intake support your metabolism and provide your body with the necessary trace elements.

Relaxation is also referred to as prevention of cervical osteochondrosis. Stress and nervous tension should be avoided, and the development of the disease is often associated with psychosomatics. We recommend a regular visit to the masseuse.