Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine using the latest highly effective techniques using modern equipment and under the guidance of experienced specialists.
Diseases of the spine can give a person a lot of unpleasant sensations, especially if they affect the cervical region: there is a risk of damage to the spinal cord and brain. In addition, osteochondrosis of the cervical spine often leads to headaches, causes disturbances in the functioning of internal organs and contributes to the deterioration of blood circulation. Fortunately, today many therapeutic techniques have been developed that allow you to eliminate unpleasant symptoms and restore a healthy state of the spine. Huh.
In this article we will tell you in detail about the features of cervical osteochondrosis and describe the main methods of its treatment. We hope that after reading this you will be able to choose the most effective way to deal with this disease and avoid radical surgery.
What is Cervical Osteochondrosis?
Cervical osteochondrosis is a disease in which the soft pulp is dislocated, which serves as a cushioning function between the vertebrae. At the same time, blood vessels and nerve roots are involved in the mechanism of development of the disease.
A distinctive feature of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is the occurrence of pain in the shoulder, occipital, neck and head. In addition, the patient can feel dizziness, increased blood pressure, oxygen starvation, lack of sensitivity on one side of the tongue and other symptoms of cardiac pathologyThis becomes the reason for contacting doctors of other specialties and significantly slows down the process of diagnosis of the disease.
Most often, middle-aged and older individuals are prone to fractures of the tissues of the upper part of the spinal column. This is due to the incorrect distribution of dynamic and static loads on the human skeleton.
However, if earlier cervical osteochondrosis and itssymptomsDiagnosed in people over the age of 45-50, but now the age of patients suffering from the disease is much younger. Today it affects young people aged 20-40 years, which is characterized by a decline in diet and physical inactivityconnected to.
Currently, there is a dual approach to the problem of the cervical spine: it is considered as a combination of physiological and pathological factors. In the first case, we are talking about the aging of the body under the influence of unavoidable natural phenomena. There are, in the second, it is believed that the destruction of intervertebral structures occurs against the background of inflammatory and dystrophic processes caused by improper lifestyle.
Symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine
Problems in diagnosing this disease are due to the absence of pain in certain conditions and the underlying nature of the symptoms. Furthermore, a person may not feel symptoms of the disease while regularly taking strong pain relievers to reduce overall discomfort. All this can cause serious disorders in the area of the cervical joints.
Of the obvious symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, which requiresthe treatment,Includes: headache, hypertension, frequent dizziness. We will talk about them further.
Dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis
Dizziness may not always appear against the background of problems with the cervical spine. In some cases, it can be caused by disorders of the brain, blood vessels and heart failure, inflammatory processes in the ear and nasopharynx, the presence of malignant neoplasms or any of the nervous systemIndicates pathological condition.
Dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis and the need for its treatment may have a non-systemic or systemic etiology.
In the first case, a person may feel astonished, uncertain and somewhat semi-faint when standing. At the same time, there is no sense of circular rotation.
In the form of systemic dizziness, most often, it is evidenced by any vestibular disorder, malfunction of the visual analyzer and other changes arising against the background of osteochondrosis. In this case, rounding of the patient's body or nearby objectsCan feel the rotation.
If dizziness occurs and the patient simultaneously develops symptoms such as severe headache, numbness in the upper chest, fainting or impaired coordination of movements, he should be hospitalized immediately.
Headache with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine
The appearance of a headache may indicate the presence of a variety of diseases. Most often, it occurs in women against the background of hormonal disruptions, stressful situations, increased intracranial pressure, spasms in the brain, nerve endings, inflammatory processes and other diseases. is.
May indicate the presence of a variety of diseases. Most often, it occurs in women against the background of hormonal disruptions, stressful situations, increased intracranial pressure, spasms in the brain, nerve endings, inflammatory processes and other diseases.
pain andnoise in the headWith cervical osteochondrosis, because of the need for treatment, is often confused with symptoms of acute disturbances in blood supply to the brain, arterial hypertension or coronary heart disease. Most often, such symptoms occur in older people suffering from the above diseases.
To determine the exact cause of the headache, you should consult an experienced specialist. In this case, it is recommended to undergo an ECG and exclude the presence of cardiac disorders.
Pain of other localization, characteristic of cervical osteochondrosis
Pain in the head and back of the head is not always a sign of cervical osteochondrosis. In some cases, discomfort can spread from the neck to the arms and shoulders. Such symptoms are sudden in nature and against the background of sudden movements, sharpCan occur after a sneeze, or when staying in one position during a night's sleep.
If the cause of the pain syndrome is chondrosis of the cervical spine, then it usually disappears after a certain time or after manual therapy in the cervical spine.
It should be noted that massage in this area is performed only after a thorough examination of the patient. With a non-professional approach, there is a high risk of worsening of the patient's condition, including his disability.
If we are talking about osteochondrosis of the cervical spine and the need for its treatment, then patients note the following pain sensations:
- the appearance of a crunch during rotation of the head;
- the presence of pain syndrome inside the neck;
- Decreased sensitivity and manifestation of muscle weakness in various areas of the body.
Increased blood pressure with problems of the cervical spine
Since the cervical vertebrae are directly connected to blood vessels and nerve endings, any disruption in this area can trigger an increase in blood pressure. However, such jumps are temporary in nature, manifesting as short-term spasms andThere are no symptoms of high blood pressure.
In addition, if there is osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, in addition to increased pressure, the patient may experience other symptoms, and treatment in this case involves the use of special anesthetic drugs. Includes:
- the presence of pain in the head region;
- loss of sensitivity in the collar;
- pain in the chest, arms and legs;
- A sharp increase in blood pressure after stressful situations, prolonged stay in one position, excessive muscle tension and other similar conditions.
A sharp deterioration in the patient's condition and a sharp increase in pressure indicate an urgent need to see a doctor.
Stages of development of cervical osteochondrosis
As it develops, the above disease passes through several stages with characteristic symptoms. We will talk about them in more detail below.
early stage osteochondrosis
As a rule, if the disease occurs in the first degree, patients may experience only minor discomfort. They may show pain only with sudden movements, tilting and twisting of the head. Many patients may experience pain in the lumbar spine and back. In report a constant feeling of fatigue and tension. Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in the initial stage does not involvedrugs. . . to recover, the patient only needs to performExerciseWith cervical osteochondrosis and make changes in the daily diet.
The second stage of the disease: features
The second stage of the pathology consists of more intense pain sensations that radiate to the upper extremities, and increase with tilting and rotation of the head. Causes of increased discomfort include: a decrease in the size of the height of the intervertebral discs and, as a result, Pinching of nerve endings. In this case, the patient notes a decline in working capacity, the appearance of absent-mindedness, increased fatigue and the occurrence of pain in the head.
Osteochondrosis of the third degree
It is accompanied by an increase in pain in the upper extremities, as well as radiating to the shoulders and neck region. In this case, numbness in the muscles of the hands can be observed, which is associated with the presence of an intervertebral hernia. In addition, Patients may complain of severe weakness and dizziness.
end stage of disease
At the final stage, deep degenerative processes in the region of the intervertebral discs and their replacement by pathological tissue make themselves felt. The need for treatment of cervical osteochondrosisin the intensity phaseMay be due to the defeat of several parts of the spine. In this case, patients report the presence of tinnitus, increased pain syndrome, severe dizziness and impaired coordination of movements.
Causes of cervical osteochondrosis
Most often, the development of this pathology is caused by everyday sedentary work, in which a person does not control the correct position of the body in a chair, and his head is constantly tilted forward. The same can be said about the long stay, which is typical for employees of construction specialties when carrying out repair activities.
As a rule, excessive stress on the cervical spine inevitably leads to degenerative disorders in the region of the vertebral discs. In addition, cervico-vertebral osteochondrosis, the symptoms of this disease and the need for its treatment can be caused by the following factors:
- violation of calcium metabolism;
- due to genetic nature;
- thermal irritant;
- when practicing extreme sports (treatment of sports injuries);
- hypodynamia;
- Prolonged stay of a person in the same position due to professional affiliation;
- obesity;
- prolonged stressful situation;
- Injuries to the neck and back of the head;
- Autoimmune processes that can provoke the destruction of cartilage tissue.
The transition to a healthy diet and moderate physical activity can reduce the chances of developing osteochondrosis.
Syndrome in Cervical Osteochondrosis Syndrome
The syndrome is represented by the simultaneous manifestation of several symptoms of the disease. As for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, it is characterized by the following syndromes: vertebral, vertebral arteries, cardiac and radicular. It is about them about whichwill be discussed below.
What is vertebral syndrome?
In the presence of the above syndrome, degenerative processes directly affect the cartilage and bone tissue. In this case, the simultaneous manifestation of the following three signs is observed:
- painful sensations when it is necessary to bend the neck;
- inability to move the neck;
- The presence of a disorder in the intervertebral region or vertebral body, which are morphological in nature (to determine this symptom, an X-ray is taken).
If the patient lacks at least one of the above symptoms, then there is no point in talking about vertebral syndrome.
Symptoms of vertebral artery syndrome
The essence of the above syndrome is damage to the vertebral arteries providing blood supply to the brain. It is characterized by the simultaneous manifestation of the following symptoms:
- Against the background of compression of the artery, the patient may feel dizziness, increased blood pressure, the appearance of tinnitus, nausea, etc . ;
- due to irritation of the nerve roots, a decrease in sensitivity, the appearance of "flies" in the eyes, intense pain and numbness in the head can be observed;
- Lack of oxygen can cause severe pain in the head region, excessive sleepiness, decreased activity and decreased concentration.
Symptoms of Cardiac Syndrome
In addition to the symptomatology of the vertebral artery in cervical osteochondrosis, the need for inpatient treatment also arises in the presence of cardiac syndrome. Many patients report a condition that is characteristic of coronary heart disease, or resembles the symptoms of myocardial infarction. In this case, the following indications occur:
- burning and acute pain syndrome in the sternum region;
- tachycardia;
- The presence of severe weakness, extreme fatigue and shortness of breath.
Radicular syndrome: features
It is characterized by a deterioration in neuromuscular conduction. In the presence of radicular syndrome, the patient may feel a decrease in sensitivity or, conversely, a severe pain syndrome. In addition, its features include:
- pain in the back of the head or, conversely, numbness in this area;
- difficulty chewing food, numbness in the area behind the ear, feeling of fullness in the tongue;
- the appearance of symptoms such as sore throat, hiccups, pain in the clavicle;
- Difficulty moving the upper limbs, discomfort in the shoulder area;
- Violations in the region of the forearm and shoulder blade;
- Loss of sensitivity in the finger area.
diagnosis
The main and most informative methods for the diagnosis of osteochondrosis include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Also shows blood vessels, nerves and intervertebral discs. If there are contraindications to MRI (presence of metal prostheses, pacemakers), computed tomography is prescribed, but the information content of the method is much less in case of diagnosis of osteochondrosis.
Is it possible to cure osteochondrosis of the cervical spine?
When it comes to cervical osteochondrosis, effective treatment of this disease is possible only with comprehensive lifestyle modification, continuous prevention and sanatorium recovery. In practice, only a few achieve it, especially in the climate of our country, when it is almost impossible to completely avoid hypothermia and new inflammatory processes. Nevertheless, you can significantly alleviate your condition, and extend the period of remission, including in the most advanced cases.
Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis
In the first stage of osteochondrosis, the patient will be helped by conservative drug-free treatment. You should correct your posture, pay attention to workplace equipment, interrupt work for a few minutes every day to do something easier.remedial gymnasticsWith cervical osteochondrosis, which can be done only at the desk in the office. Swimming, increased physical activity and the intake of vitamin and mineral complexes will have a positive effect on the entire musculoskeletal system.
Benefits of shockwave therapy
If the patient has osteochondrosis of the cervical spine and its symptoms, a new method of treatment is considered the most effective - with the help of shock waves. This procedure is notable for its affordable price. In addition, if a medical institution hasIf you have specialized equipment, you can take the UHT course completely free of charge.
Benefits of UHT include:
- greatest accomplishment;
- lack of discomfort during the procedure;
- minimal likelihood of side effects;
- reducing the need for aggressive treatment
- Reducing the need to take medication.
Medication Medication for Cervical Osteochondrosis
If you have cervical osteochondrosis and are interested in treatmentmedicinalandeffective,You can find information about suitable drugs on the Internet. However, despite the variety of drugs and the lack of need for a prescription, self-medication is not recommended. Most drugs have side effects and contraindications, it is also important thatDo not take in excess.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).They are used to relieve swelling and pain.
muscle relaxants, sedatives
They are additionally prescribed to alleviate the general condition of the patient and reduce the dosage of NSAIDs. By simultaneously relieving muscle spasms and nervous tension, you can achieve the best therapeutic effect.
At the end of treatment, doctors usually recommend purchasing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for a home first aid kit, as neck pain can return with changes in weather, exertion, and stress.
physiotherapy approach
In cases where drug therapy is contraindicated or does not have the desired effect, and sometimes for a complex effect, physiotherapy methods are used, which are available in both classical and alternative medicine. All of them are aimed at muscle spasms. To relieve swelling and pain.
Acupuncture. The essence of the method is to "awaken" biologically active points by introducing special thin needles to a depth of several centimeters. The procedure itself is painful, but it helps to relieve pain in the spine. Several sessionsis required.
Hand treatment. This method is effective if the patient haskeep it closedNerves of the cervical spine, associated symptoms were diagnosed and the need for treatment was identified. The nerves and blood vessels trapped by the malformed vertebrae can be released by manually stretching the spine.
Hirudotherapy (leech). Relieves swelling and inflammation caused by biologically active substances secreted by leeches. Strengthens blood circulation.
Shock wave therapy. Restores blood circulation and destroys osteophytes, helps to return the cartilage tissue to its normal structure. Already after 1-2 sessions the patient feels a decrease in pain and swelling. The course of shock wave therapy includes ten procedures, it can be prescribed as part of complex non-invasive therapy and during the rehabilitation period after surgery. It has a number of contraindications and is used by many, including neurologists, cardiologists and vertebrologists. Is carried out only after a comprehensive examination by specialists.
Exercises for cervical osteochondrosis
If a person has cervical osteochondrosis, then dailyExercise,Developed for the treatment of this disease, will help strengthen the muscular corset, which means - reduce the load on the cervical spine. Exercise therapy is indicated for all stages of the disease, as well as as a preventive measure. During exacerbations, a set of exercises should be performed with caution.
Specific exercises for the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine:
- the head turns to the sides;
- Head tilts back and forth;
- lift the shoulders relaxed or with steady hands, hold them in this position for 15-20 seconds;
- Alternate tension of the flexors and extensors of the neck with a stable position of the head.
The exercise should be repeated 5-7 times. The duration of the lesson is 15-20 minutes.
surgical intervention
In the absence of a positive effect after 6 months of conservative treatment, spinal fusion may be indicated. The purpose of the procedure is to immobilize the affected vertebral segment. This includes removal of the intervertebral disc, decompression of the nerve root, and placement of implantsOr involves the creation of an anatomical elevation of the disc space. The operation has a lot of contraindications and side effects. For example, spinal fusion can lead to vertebral disability. That is why surgical intervention is indicated only in extreme casesare given.
nutrition and lifestyle
After surgical treatment of cervical osteochondrosis, in the initial rehabilitation period, it is necessary to wear a fixing collar. During conservative treatment and in the late rehabilitation period, a diet rich in calcium and vitamins, improving habitual posture and posture in general, for the neckA daily set of therapeutic exercises, orthopedic pillows, is recommended.
Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis at home Treatment
If you have been diagnosed with cervical osteochondrosis and its symptoms, and you want to undergoHome remedies,It should be remembered that such an independent intervention can be practiced only in combination with procedures prescribed by a specialist.
Some experts recommend usingorthopedic pillowWith cervical osteochondrosis, and use such warming agents as pepper plasters, mustard plasters and alcohol compresses. According to others, only specialPracticefor treatment andredress. . .
You can also resort to the help of traditional medicine recipes, which are based on the use of honey-potato compresses and dressings with natural ingredients. More information about such tools can be found on the Internet. However, only an experiencedAnd only a highly qualified doctor can diagnose cervicothoracic osteochondrosis, identify its symptoms and prescribe the most effective treatment.
Preventive measures for cervical osteochondrosis
An examination by the attending physician is required once a year. A course of shock wave therapy may be prescribed. Hypothermia and infectious diseases, in the same condition should be avoided for a long time working at the computer. If traveling on a plane or bus, use neck support pillows to relieve muscle tension and prevent congestion. For daily sleep, use special orthopedic pillows that ensure the correct position of the head. Huh.