Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine

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

The first symptoms may appear as early as 20-30 years, but more often the disease can be seen at 40 years. It is divided into three categories - osteochondrosis of the lumbar, thoracic and cervical spine.

Reason for development

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

• hereditary predisposition to disease;
• disturbed metabolism, intoxication, infectious diseases;
• overweight and increased pressure on all parts of the spine, including the cervix;
• lack of fluids, vitamins or micro elements, low quality nutrition;
• spinal injuries, bruises, fractures;
• climatic or environmental conditions that adversely affect the body;
• incorrect posture, spinal curvature;
• flat feet, the use of high-heeled shoes;
• inactive and inactive lifestyle;
• high activity, requires frequent body position changes;
• frequent physical activity in the spine;
• remains in an uncomfortable position for a long time;
• depressed state, excessive nervous stress.

The appearance of osteochondrosis is often associated with professional activity. Ongoing physical activity, high levels of mobility, as well as inactive work form a major risk group.

Other categories prone to cervical osteochondrosis are formed due to the objective and external conditions of exposure. Heredity, climate, frequent hypothermia - all of these contribute to the extra burden on the spine. These also include malnutrition and necessary nutrients that can prevent osteochondrosis in the cervical spine.

Improper sleeping position, not moving for a long time, especially in uncomfortable situations, wearing uncomfortable shoes - all of these form another risk group. This also includes pregnant women, especially when carrying several children or an underdeveloped musculoskeletal system.

Stages of osteochondrosis

The development of osteochondrosis is divided into four stages. The first is characterized by the pathological development of the nucleus pulposus. Lack of moisture and pressure on the cervical spine causes deformation of the vertebral and intervertebral discs, and fibrous cracks appear.

Symptoms are usually absent at this stage. Their manifestations are reduced to mild pain during prolonged uncomfortable body position, as well as some discomfort during active movement.

At the onset of the second stage of cervical osteochondrosis, the height of the intervertebral disc decreases. This leads to a decrease in the distance between the vertebrae, sagging muscles and ligaments.

At this stage, the movement of the affected spine increases. This is expressed in expressive painful sensations with certain movements and positions. Discomfort can also manifest itself under certain loads.

In the third stage of the development of cervical osteochondrosis, prolapse and protrusion of the intervertebral disc are formed. Often, the disease is accompanied by dislocation and corresponding joint arthrosis.

This stage of cervical osteochondrosis is often accompanied by stiffness in some movements. Lack of mobility is also evident, tingling and numbness in the limbs. Neck pain becomes apparent.

The fourth stage of cervical osteochondrosis is characterized by attempts by the body to independently correct an increase in vertebral mobility. In their places of contact, osteophytes are formed, concentrated in an effort to improve the desired position of the spinal space.

This bone formation often causes nerve entrapment. Fibrous ankylosis begins to develop in the intervertebral discs and joints. When the nerve endings are pinched, the symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine increase. However, if there are no pinches, the symptoms of the disease will disappear completely.

Symptoms

Symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine at different stages are shown in different ways. Many patients at an early stage do not seek medical help.

Cases when it is necessary to consult a specialist include the following symptoms:

• obsessive, not lost at night, pain in the neck, in the eyes and ears, in the back of the head and in the shoulder girdle;
• frequent pain in the arm, exacerbated by physical activity, muscle weakness;
• Difficulty moving hands, decreased sensitivity and movement of hands and fingers;
• numbness, burning, tingling in the hands and feet;
• in the morning, there is tension in the neck muscles, a feeling of "laziness" arises, and low neck movements are found;
• pain when turning and tilting the head, periodically there is a throbbing pain in the neck and back of the head;
• headaches appear, localize in the occiput and spread to the crown and temples;
• frequent dizziness, darkening of the eyes, fainting may occur with sharp rotation of the head;
• tinnitus, the appearance of "flies" in front of the eyes, decreased visual and auditory aches, numbness of the tongue;
• heart disease, its intensity depends on posture and does not relieve nitroglycerin;
• growth of connective tissue in the cervical spine.

The intensity of the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis can manifest itself in different ways. Much depends on the localization of complications - depending on the vertebrae where the nerve endings are pinched, the symptoms will also be different.

If the symptoms of osteochondrosis do not allow you to live and work fully, you must see a doctor.

Diagnostics

If there are obvious symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, they turn to a local therapist. It can help determine the source of pain and provide a referral to a neurologist for further evaluation. A neurologist, depending on the diagnosis, is referred to in a narrower specialization.

Vertebroneurologists address all problems in the treatment of the spine. Chiropractors can also help determine the diagnosis. In case of acute pain, they are referred to a trauma surgeon.

The diagnosis process of osteochondrosis can be performed manually.

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

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

Doppler ultrasound or duplex scan can be prescribed to identify duct conditions in cervical spine osteochondrosis. It is emphasized that only the appropriate specialist can diagnose the disease.

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

How to treat osteochondrosis of the cervical spine?

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

The following methods are included in the general procedure:

• take medication that relieves symptoms and encourages recovery;
• physiotherapy - water procedures, electrophoresis and other methods allow you to affect the spine in the right way;
• therapeutic gymnastics is considered an inseparable way to treat cervical spine osteochondrosis.

In treatment, very specific alternative methods can also be used - reflexotherapy, massage and manual therapy, osteopathy, hirudo and apitherapy.

A key aspect of the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is an integrated approach. Depending on the stage of the disease, the main course can last 1-3 months. In addition, rehabilitation and strengthening therapy is prescribed, it can stretch for another year.

First Aid

In the event of worsening osteochondrosis, first aid is usually reduced to taking medication. For severe pain, use standard painkillers.

If the effects of these drugs are not present, it turns to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. However, these drugs can have a negative effect on the gastrointestinal tract. Without consulting a doctor, its use is only allowed in extreme cases.

The intensity of pain in cervical spine osteochondrosis is also relieved with anti-inflammatory pain relievers.

In the event of an increase in osteochondrosis, physiotherapy training is not used - the load can lead to greater complications. If the disease has been diagnosed and treatment is prescribed, follow the doctor's recommendations. Typically, therapy includes a number of tools used to relieve symptoms immediately.

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

Physical Education

The main cause of cervical osteochondrosis is pressure on this part of the spine. They can be expressed in prolonged inactivity with uncomfortable posture, and in overly strong movements with poorly developed musculoskeletal system.

Given this aspect, gymnastics and physical training are key therapies in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis. You can do it in the morning and during the day, some can be done at work.

The entire complex of action 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

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

• palms are placed on the forehead, pressed against it with the head, resisting the resistance of the hands to pressure, the procedure is repeated 3-4 times for 7-10 seconds;
• a similar process is performed with the back of the head - the head is pressed against the opposite palm, tightening the neck muscles;
• then the procedure is performed in the same way as the right and left sides of the head, by placing the hand on the temples;
• as an alternative to hands for the same exercise, you can use a wall, in which case they lean against the forehead or back of the head and press for a few seconds;
• the head is thrown backwards, overcoming the tension of the neck muscles, slowly tilting forward until the chin reaches the sternum, repeat 5-6 times;
• stand (sit) straight, turn their shoulders, slowly turn his head to the maximum and right maximum, repeat 5-6 times;
• chin is lowered to the neck, in this position the head is also gently rotated to the left and right 5-6 times;
• head slightly thrown back, tilt head to left and right, try to reach the shoulder that fits the ear, do 5 times.

Exercises for the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis are repeated periodically. This is especially relevant for an inactive lifestyle or for long periods of time in uncomfortable situations.

Round head movements are not suitable for charging; Exercises like this can cause neck injuries.

Lying Exercises

The supine position for cervical osteochondrosis consists of the following actions:

• lying on his back, stretching his legs, then pulling him to his chest, hugging him with their hands, gently lifting his head, touching his knees with his forehead, after which they also slowly returned to their original position;
• arms are spread widely to the side and, raising the body, grab with the palm of the right hand with the left and vice versa;
• lying on his stomach with legs and arms outstretched, lifting his head and shoulders, leaning on his lower body;
• in the same position, the head is rotated left and right, each time returning to its original position.

Lying exercises for the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine are performed 4-5 times, the last - 8-10. While performing any action, they monitor the sensation; if pain occurs, the load intensity decreases.

Drug therapy

In the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, medication is intended to relieve the symptoms of the disease. Their supporting role is focused on pain reduction, vitamin replenishment, and increased tissue regeneration.

Drugs used in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis are divided into the following categories:

• anti-inflammatory;
• antispasmodik;
• antioxidants;
• drugs to increase blood supply;
• increased cartilage tissue regeneration.

In the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, a general list of prescribed medications including tablets, ointments, creams, in some cases, injections are also prescribed. If there is significant pain, medication is used to relieve the pain and blockage of the nerve endings.

If there is no pain and destructive changes, taking medication should not be done completely.

People's solution

In the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis, traditional medicine also offers an integrated approach. In addition to decoctions and tinctures, ointments based on ingredients and products are used. Compresses are also made.

The main goal in treatment with folk remedies is to warm the affected area, as well as provide the body with vitamins needed for recovery.

The use of prescriptions must be coordinated with the doctor - some may interfere with prescribed medications or procedures.

Decoctions and tinctures

The following decoctions are available for oral administration in the treatment of cervical spine osteochondrosis:

• celery root chopped through a grater, 3 grams poured with one liter of boiling water, insist for 8 hours, filtered, drunk before meals three times a day, one teaspoon;
• Sunflower roots are finely crushed, a glass of raw material is poured with three liters of water, boiled for half an hour, taken after eating in small amounts, helps remove salt from the body;
• 2 tablespoons of yarrow flowers are poured with boiling water, injected for 30-40 minutes, taken one tablespoon three times a day, used as an anesthetic, anti-inflammatory and sedative;
• 3 tablespoons of crushed burdock, poured with 250 grams of boiling water, insist for two hours, one tablespoon of honey filtered and added, a quarter of a glass drunk 4 times a day before meals;
• using a meat grinder, grind 3 large lemons, 4 cloves of garlic, pour the mixture with two liters of boiling water, drink on an empty stomach, shake the jar first.

Compress

Lotion 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 the sore spot, wrap it with 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 bandage in the solution, fix and leave overnight;
• one potato is passed through a grater, mixed with two tablespoons of honey, rubbed into the sore spot, and then wrapped in a warm scarf for the night;
• one tablespoon of eucalyptus is poured with a glass of water, boiled for 5 minutes, one tablespoon of honey added, the mixture is rubbed on the sore spot for two hours.

Ointment

The following recipe is used to rub sore spots with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine:

• mother and stepdaughter flowers, along with their stems, are poured with ammonia, they are left to stand in a dark place for a month, they are used to lubricate the sore spot;
• prepare a mixture of ginger juice and tincture of calendula pharmacy, for sensitive skin it is diluted with water in a ratio of 1: 1, used for rubbing before filling, helps relieve inflammation and improves 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 injected for several days in a dark place, the resulting film is removed, the solution is used to grind in case of acute pain.

Sort

If there is cervical osteochondrosis, massage can be part of complex therapy. In this case, the reference to the specialist is set by the neurologist himself. If the decision is independent of the massage, it is recommended to see a doctor first.

Taking into account the specificity of the disease, massage with cervical spine osteochondrosis should be treated with caution. This procedure is prescribed only with the diagnosed disease, on the recommendation of a doctor and the presence of pain in the neck.

Contraindications to massage for cervical osteochondrosis:

• there are tumors in the body, regardless of localization;
• active tuberculosis;
• does not cure sexually transmitted diseases;
• skin diseases at the site of inflammation, including moles, warts, cracks, abrasions;
• for diseases of the circulatory system, massage is included in the therapy at the discretion of the doctor;
• aneurysm, ostiomyelitis.

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

Self-treatment for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is done by following clear instructions and rules:

• catch area - from hair growth zone to level below the shoulder;
• you can act with one or two hands simultaneously, depending on convenience;
• a specific sequence of actions must be followed.

The procedure for performing a sequence for cervical spine osteochondrosis includes the following steps:

• for half a minute, with the palms pressed tightly, stretching the skin in the inflamed area;
• movement is continued with pressure with the palms of the hands or with finger pads;
• fingers continue to rub, pulling skin from side to spine;
• the skin is already squeezed by catching muscles, its movement is maintained at a strong 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, in the time required half a minute of uninterrupted movement. With osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, self-massage becomes difficult, therefore, they seek help from friends or relatives. However, experts are still recommended.

Nutrition

Complex treatment of cervical osteochondrosis includes dietary nutrition. This focuses on increasing metabolism, as well as saturating the body with the necessary minerals and vitamins that contribute to tissue recovery and regrowth.

Basics of diet for cervical spine osteochondrosis include:

• dairy products and fermentation;
• low-fat chicken, fish;
• fresh vegetables and fruits;
• nuts and seeds;
• grain;
• mushrooms.

Recommended recipes for cervical spine osteochondrosis include fish and meat jelly, jelly meat, aspic dishes. Note the use of virgin olive oil. Apply it without heat treatment. The food itself is better boiled, baked or steamed.

Food should be divided 5-6 times. For proper absorption, it is recommended to drink from half a liter of liquid daily. Preference is given to pure and mineral water, dried fruit compote, sugar-free fruit drinks, herbal teas.

For osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, limit the use of the following products:

• flour and confectionery products;
• fatty foods, strong meat broth;
• spicy and salty foods or seasonings;
• sugar and fruits high in sugar;
• canned food, smoked products;
• beans.

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

Complications and Dangers

Advanced cervical osteochondrosis can cause the following complications:

• herniated intervertebral disc;
• protrusion and kifosis;
• radiculitis, salt deposits in the spine;
• spinal cord stroke;
• limb atrophy due to inadequate blood supply, paralysis.

The risk of complications in cervical osteochondrosis arises in the absence of treatment of this disease. Lack of medical treatment, non-compliance with prescribed treatment, neglect of recommendations - all of these give rise to new pathologies and can end in the patient’s complete disability.

Contraindications for osteochondrosis

If there is a suspicion of the development of cervical osteochondrosis or this disease has been diagnosed, the following actions are not allowed:

• for lifting and carrying weights - loads on the spine do not contribute to treatment in any way;
• to be actively involved in sports - running, walking, swimming are useful, but overloading with a simulator will only aggravate the situation;
• to lead a sedentary lifestyle - lack of movement, warmth, prolonged fresh air have a detrimental effect on general conditions;
• overeating - often osteochondrosis of the cervical spine develops precisely because of being overweight, it is not worth contributing to the worsening condition;
• consume plenty of salt and alcohol - salty and spicy foods, as well as alcohol products should be completely excluded from the diet;
• Sloppy movements and joint fractures - such actions are often relieving, yet they fade and damage the vertebral contact surface;
• sleeping on a high pillow - in this position, the muscles are tense all night, which only complicates the disease;
• sleeping in a soft bed - with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, it is recommended to rest on the floor or on the board;
• wear uncomfortable shoes, wear high heels - lack of full support increases spinal tension, often leading to deformation.

Also, with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, self-diagnosis of the disease and self-treatment are not allowed. The course of therapy should be prescribed and monitored by a specialist. Without this, there is no hope of recovery at all, in most cases there will be complications.

Folk healers should be avoided, there is no need to arrange and stretch the spine. Such actions can lead to serious injuries and complications. Folk recipes are also used only after consulting an expert.

Prevention

The cause of cervical osteochondrosis in most cases is associated with an improper lifestyle.

To prevent and prevent such diseases, attention is given to the following aspects:

• does not include hypodynamia - many sports are suitable for this, including walking, jogging, skiing, swimming, cycling, as well as gymnastics and regular exercise;
• during "sitting" work, attention is given to posture (straight back, relaxed shoulders), standard arm and leg position, as well as spinal support from the side of the seat;
• while maintaining a stationary position for long periods of time, pausing every 45 minutes to warm up and restore blood circulation;
• elastic mattresses, preferably orthopedic, and pillows that are not too high are chosen for sleeping;
• while lifting weights, loads are distributed to the legs and arms, it is better to lift weights than half a squat, jerks are avoided;
• adheres to a diet - proper diet and fluid intake support metabolism and provide the body with the necessary trace elements.

Relaxation also refers to the prevention of cervical osteochondrosis. Nerve stress and tension should be avoided, often the development of the disease is associated with psychosomatic. Regular visits to the masseuse are recommended.