Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine

Osteochondrosis is a degenerative disease of the spine, which manifests as deformation of bone tissue and intervertebral discs.

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

Development reasons

The causes of the appearance 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 increased stress on all parts of the spine, including the cervix;
• lack of fluids, vitamins or microelements, poor nutrition;
• spinal injuries, contusions, fractures;
• climatic or environmental conditions that harm the body;
• poor posture, curvature of the spine;
• flat feet, use of high-heeled shoes;
• sedentary and sedentary lifestyle;
• high activity, requiring frequent changes in body position;
• frequent physical activity on the spine;
• staying in an awkward position for a long time;
• stressful situations, nervous overwork.

The onset of osteochondrosis is often associated with work activities. Constant physical activity, high mobility and sedentary work are the main risk group.

Another category of people prone to cervical osteochondrosis is formed due to the objective and external conditions of exposure. Heredity, climate, frequent hypothermia - all this contributes to an additional load on the spine. It also includes malnutrition and a lack of necessary substances that can prevent osteochondrosis of the cervical spine.

Poor posture while sleeping, prolonged immobility, especially in an awkward position, wearing uncomfortable shoes - all of this forms another risk group. This also includes pregnant women, especially when carrying multiple children or having an underdeveloped musculoskeletal system.

Stages in the development of osteochondrosis

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

Symptoms are usually absent at this stage. Their manifestation is reduced to minor pain during a prolonged uncomfortable position of the body, as well as some discomfort during active movement.

At 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, sagging muscles and ligaments.

At this point, the mobility of the affected vertebrae increases. This results in expressive painful sensations with certain movements and positions. Discomfort can also manifest under certain loads.

In the third stage of development of cervical osteochondrosis, prolapse and protuberance of intervertebral discs are formed. Often the disease is accompanied by dislocations and arthritis of the corresponding joints.

This stage of cervical osteochondrosis is often accompanied by stiffness in certain movements. Lack of mobility is also manifested, tingling and numbness is felt in the limbs. Neck pain becomes distinct.

The fourth stage of cervical osteochondrosis is characterized by an attempt by the body to independently correct the increased mobility of the vertebrae. At the places of their contacts, osteophytes are formed, focused on trying to fix 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 nerve endings are pinched, the symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine intensify. However, if there are no pinches, the signs of the disease may disappear completely.

Symptoms

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

Cases when consultation with a specialist is necessary include the following signs:

• obsessive, not going away at night, pain in the neck, eye and ear area, back of head, 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, tingling in the hands and feet;
• in the morning there is tension in the muscles of the neck, a feeling of "laziness" appears, and poor mobility of the neck is noted;
• pain when turning and tilting the head, there is periodically shooting pain in the neck and back of the head;
• a headache occurs, localized in the occiput and extending to the crown and temples;
• frequent dizziness, darkening of the eyes, fainting may occur with a sudden turn of the head;
• tinnitus, appearance of "flies" in front of the eyes, reduced visual and hearing acuity, numbness of the tongue;
• heart pain, the intensity of which depends on posture and is not relieved by nitroglycerin;
• growth of connective tissue in the cervical spine.

The severity of symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis can manifest in different ways. Much depends on the location of the complications - depending on the vertebrae on which 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 should see a doctor.

Diagnostics

If pronounced symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis are detected, they turn to a local therapist. It can help determine the source of the pain and refer to a neurologist for further evaluation. A neurologist, depending on the diagnosis, is appointed in narrower specializations.

Vertebroneurologist takes care of all questions in the treatment of the spine. A chiropractor can also help determine the diagnosis. In the event of acute pain, they are referred to a trauma surgeon.

The process of diagnosing osteochondrosis can be done manually.

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

• x-ray of the cervical spine;
myelography
• ;
• neurological examination of the sensitivity and reflexes of the limbs;
• computed tomography of the cervical spine (CT);
• nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR);
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• .

Doppler ultrasound or duplex ultrasound may be ordered 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 are 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 medicines that eliminate symptoms and promote healing;
• physiotherapy - procedures with water, electrophoresis and other methods allow you to influence the spine in the right way;
Therapeutic gymnastics
• is ​​considered an integral means of treating osteochondrosis of the cervical spine.

During the treatment, highly specialized alternative methods can also be used - reflexotherapy, massage and manual therapy, osteopathy, hirudo and apitherapy.

The main aspect of treatment for cervical osteochondrosis is the integrated approach. Depending on the stage of the disease, the main course can last from 1 to 3 months. In addition, restorative and strengthening therapy is prescribed, it can stretch for a year.

First aid

In case of exacerbations of osteochondrosis, first aid usually comes down to medication. For severe pain, use standard pain relievers.

If the effect of these drugs is absent, they turn to nonsteroidal 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.

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

In case of exacerbation of osteochondrosis, physiotherapy exercises are not used - the load can lead to an even greater complication. If the disease has already been diagnosed and treatment is prescribed, follow the doctor's recommendations. As a rule, therapy includes a number of tools that are used to urgently eliminate symptoms.

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

Physical education

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

Considering this aspect, gymnastics and physical exercises are the key therapy 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 designed to strengthen the musculoskeletal system, improve blood circulation and restore mobility of the vertebrae. Gymnastics can be used not only for treatment, but also for the prevention of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine.

Sit and stand exercises

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

• the 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 performed with the back of the head - the head is resting on the opposite palm, straining the muscles of the neck;
• then the procedure is carried out in the same way with the right and left sides of the head, putting the hand on 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 their forehead or the 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 breastbone, repeat 5-6 times;
• stand straight (sit), turning your shoulders, slowly turning your head as far as possible to the right and left, repeat 5-6 times;
• the chin is lowered towards the neck, in this position the head is also slowly turned left and right 5-6 times;
• the head is thrown back slightly, tilted the head to the 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 relevant for a sedentary lifestyle or for a long time in an awkward position.

The circular movements of the head are not suitable for the load; such exercises can cause neck injuries.

Lie exercises

Supine exercises for cervical osteochondrosis consist of the following actions:

• lie on their back, stretching their legs, then pull them to the chest, hug them with their hands, slowly raise their heads, touch their knees with their foreheads, after which they slowly return to their positionoriginal;
• the arms are wide apart to the sides and, lifting the body, reach the right palm with the left and vice versa;
• lying on your stomach with outstretched legs and arms, raise your head and shoulders, leaning on the lower part of the body;
• in the same position, the head is turned left and right, returning each time to its original position.

Exercises in the lying position for the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine are performed 4-5 times, the last - 8-10. During the execution of any action, they watch the sensations; if pain occurs, the intensity of the load is reduced.

Drug treatment

In the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, medication is aimed at eliminating the symptoms of the disease. Their supporting role is focused on reducing pain, replenishing vitamins and increasing tissue regeneration.

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

• anti-inflammatory;
• antispasmodic;
• antioxidants;
• medicines to improve the blood supply;
• increased regeneration of cartilage tissue.

In the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, the general list of prescribed drugs includes tablets, ointments, creams. In some cases, injections are also prescribed. With severe pain, drugs are used to relieve pain and block nerve endings.

Without pain and destructive changes, taking medication may be completely unnecessary.

Folk remedies

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

The main goal of treatment with folk remedies is to warm the affected area, as well as to give the body the necessary vitamins for recovery.

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

Decoctions and tinctures

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

• celeriac is chopped in a grater, 3 grams are poured with a liter of boiling water, insisted for 8 hours, filtered, consumed before meals three times a day, a teaspoon;
• sunflower root is finely crushed, a glass of raw materials 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 of yarrow flowers are poured with boiling water, infused for 30-40 minutes, drunk one tablespoon three times a day, used as an anesthetic, anti-inflammatory and sedative;
• 3 tablespoons of burdock are crushed, poured with 250 grams of boiling water, insisted for two hours, a spoonful of honey is filtered and added, a quarter of a glass is drunk 4 times a day before meals;
• using a meat grinder, crush 3 large pitted lemons, 4 cloves of garlic, pour the mixture with two liters of boiling water, drink on an empty stomach, shaking the pot beforehand.

Compresses

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

Ointments

The following recipes are used for rubbing sore spots with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine:

• coltsfoot flowers with stems are poured with ammonia, they are allowed to settle for a month in a dark place, they are used to lubricate the wound;
• prepare a mixture of ginger juice and pharmaceutical calendula tincture, for sensitive skin it is diluted with water in a ratio of 1: 1, used for rubbing before loading, helps to relieve theinflammation 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 infused for several days in a dark place, the resulting film is discarded, the solution is used for grinding in case of acute pain.

Massage

In 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 about massage, it is recommended to consult a doctor first.

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

Contraindications of massage for cervical osteochondrosis:

• there are tumors in the body, regardless of their location;
• active tuberculosis;
• not cured venereal disease;
• 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;
• aneurysms, ostiomyelitis.

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

Self-massage for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is carried out taking into account clear instructions and rules:

capture area
• - from the area of ​​hair growth below the shoulders;
• you can act with one or two hands simultaneously, according to your convenience;
• a certain sequence of actions must be followed.

The massage procedure for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine consists of the following steps:

• for half a minute, with a tight palm, stroke the skin in the area of ​​inflammation;
• movements continue with pressure with the edge of the palm or with the pads of the fingers;
The fingers
• continue to rub, pulling the skin from the sides towards the spine;
• the skin is already kneaded with the capture of the muscles, the movements are maintained at an intense level, but without painful sensations;
• To finish, repeat the first action by gently rubbing the palm.

It is recommended to repeat each action 6-7 times, in time it takes half a minute of unhurried movements. With osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, self-massage can be difficult, therefore, they turn to friends or relatives for help. However, a specialist is still recommended.

Nutrition

Complex treatment of cervical osteochondrosis includes dietary nutrition. It is focused on improving metabolism, as well as saturating the body with the necessary minerals and vitamins that help restore and regenerate tissues.

The basis of the diet for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine includes:

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

Recommended recipes for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine include fish and meat jellies, jelly meat, aspic dishes. Pay attention to the use of virgin olive oil. Apply it without heat treatment. The food itself is better to boil, cook or steam.

Meals should be divided 5-6 times. For good absorption, it is recommended to drink from half a liter of liquid per day. Preference is given to pure and mineral water, dried fruit compotes, unsweetened fruit drinks, herbal teas.

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

• flour and confectionery products;
• fatty foods, strong meat broths;
• spicy and salty foods or condiments;
• sugar and fruits high in sugar;
• canned foods, smoked products;
• legumes.

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

Complications and dangers

Advanced cervical osteochondrosis can lead to the following complications:

• herniated intervertebral discs;
• protrusion and kyphosis;
• radiculitis, salt deposits in the spine;
• spinal cord injury;
• atrophy of limbs due to insufficient blood supply, paralysis.

The risk of complications from cervical osteochondrosis occurs in the absence of treatment for the disease. Lack of medical care, non-compliance with the prescribed treatment, ignorance of recommendations - all this causes new pathologies and can lead to complete disability of the patient.

Contraindications for osteochondrosis

If cervical osteochondrosis is suspected to develop or the disease has already been diagnosed, the following actions are not allowed:

• for lifting and carrying weights - loads on the spine do not contribute in any way to the treatment;
• for actively playing sports - running, walking, swimming are useful, however, excessive loads with simulators will only make the situation worse;
• to lead a still life - prolonged lack of movement, warming up, walking in the fresh air has a detrimental effect on the general condition;
• overeating - often osteochondrosis of the cervical spine develops precisely due to excess weight;
• consumes 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 cracking of the joints - these actions often bring relief, however, they wear out and deform the contact surfaces of the vertebrae;
• sleep 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 on planks;
• wearing uncomfortable shoes, using high heels - the lack of complete support increases the strain on the spine, often causing it to deform.

In addition, with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, self-diagnosis of the disease and self-medication is not allowed. The course of treatment should be prescribed and monitored by a specialist. Without it, it is not worth hoping for a recovery, in most cases there will be complications.

Folk healers should be avoided, there is no need to fix and stretch the spine. Such actions can lead to serious injury 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 an incorrect lifestyle.

To prevent and prevent such a disease, special attention is paid to the following aspects:

• excludes hypodynamia - many sports are suitable for this, including walking, jogging, skiing, swimming, cycling, as well as gymnastics and regular exercise;
• when working "seated", special attention is paid to posture (straight back, relaxed shoulders), standard position of the arms and legs, as well as the support of the spine on the side of the seat;
• while maintaining a stationary position for a long time, take a break every 45 minutes to warm up and restore blood circulation;
• an elastic mattress, preferably orthopedic, and a pillow that is not too high are chosen for sleeping;
• when lifting the weight, the load is distributed to the legs and arms, it is better to lift the weight half a squat, avoid jerking;
• adhere to the diet - a correct diet and fluid intake support the metabolism and supply the body with the necessary 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 associated with psychosomatics. Regular visits to the masseur are recommended.