Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine.

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

The first symptoms can appear in the 20-30 years, but more often the disease becomes noticeable in the 40s. It is divided into three categories: osteochondrosis of the lumbar, thoracic and cervical spine.

Development reasons

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

• hereditary predisposition to the disease;
• altered metabolism, intoxication of the body, infectious diseases;
• excess weight and increased stress on all parts of the spine, including the cervical;
• lack of fluids, vitamins or microelements, poor quality nutrition;
• spinal injuries, bruises, fractures;
• climatic or environmental conditions that adversely affect the body;
• incorrect posture, curvature of the spine;
• flat feet, wearing high heels;
• sedentary, sedentary lifestyle;
• high activity, requiring frequent changes in body position;
• frequent physical activity in the spine;
• staying in an uncomfortable position for a long time;
• stressful situations, nervous overexertion.

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

Another category of people prone to cervical osteochondrosis is formed due to 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 in the cervical spine.

Incorrect sleeping position, prolonged immobility, especially in an awkward position, wearing uncomfortable shoes - all this forms another risk group. This also includes pregnant women, especially when they have multiple children or an undeveloped musculoskeletal system.

Stages of development of osteochondrosis

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

Symptoms are generally absent at this stage. Its manifestation is reduced to mild pain during prolonged uncomfortable position of the body, as well as some discomfort during active movement.

At the beginning 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 of the muscles and ligaments.

In this stage, the mobility of the affected vertebrae 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 development of cervical osteochondrosis, prolapses and bulges of the intervertebral discs form. Often the disease is accompanied by dislocations and arthrosis of the corresponding joints.

This stage of cervical osteochondrosis is usually accompanied by stiffness in some movements. There is also a lack of mobility, tingling and numbness in the extremities. Neck pain becomes different.

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 discs and intervertebral joints. When the 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 manifest in different ways. Many patients in the early stages do not seek medical help.

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

• obsessive, does not go away 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 pain in the arms, aggravated by physical exertion, muscle weakness;
• Difficulty moving hands, decreased sensation and mobility of hands and fingers;
• numbness, burning, tingling in hands and feet;
• in the morning, there is tension in the neck muscles, a feeling of "laziness" arises, and there is low mobility of the neck;
• pain when turning and tilting the head, periodically there is a shooting pain in the neck and the back of the head;
• headache appears, located in the occiput and extending 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 and auditory 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 intensity of the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis can manifest itself in different ways. Much depends on the location of the complications; Depending on which vertebrae the nerve endings are pinched on, the symptoms will also be different.

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

Diagnosis

If pronounced symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis are found, see 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, refers to more limited specializations.

The vertebroneurologist takes care of all the problems of the treatment of the spine. A chiropractor can also help determine the diagnosis. In acute pain, he is referred to a trauma surgeon.

The diagnostic process for osteochondrosis can be done manually.

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

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

A Doppler ultrasound or duplex scan may be prescribed to identify the status of the vessels in osteochondrosis of the cervical spine. It is emphasized that only an 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 medications that eliminate symptoms and promote recovery;
• physiotherapy - water procedures, electrophoresis and other methods allow you to influence the spine in the right way;
• Therapeutic gymnastics is considered a comprehensive way of treating osteochondrosis of the cervical spine.

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

The main aspect of the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is the integrated approach. Depending on the stage of the disease, the main dish can last from 1 to 3 months. In addition, restorative and strengthening therapy is prescribed, which 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 absent, they turn to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. However, these medications can have a negative effect on the gastrointestinal tract. Without consulting a doctor, its use is allowed only in extreme cases.

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

In case of exacerbation of osteochondrosis, physical therapy exercises are not used; charging can cause even more complication. If the disease has already been diagnosed and the course of treatment is prescribed, then follow the doctor's recommendations. Therapy usually includes a number of tools that are used to eliminate symptoms urgently.

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

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.

Given this aspect, gymnastics and physical exercise 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 entire complex of actions is designed to strengthen the musculoskeletal system, improve blood circulation and restore the mobility of the vertebrae. Gymnastics can be used not only for the treatment, but also for the prevention of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine.

Standing and sitting exercises

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

• the palm is placed on the forehead, the head is pressed, opposing the resistance of the hand to the 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 on the opposite palm, which strains the neck muscles;
• then the procedure is performed in the same way with the right and left side of the head, putting a hand on the temple;
• as an alternative to the hand for the same exercises, you can use a wall, in this case you lean against it with your forehead or the back of your head and press for a few seconds;
• the head leans back, overcoming the tension of the neck muscles, slowly leans forward until the chin reaches the sternum, repeat 5-6 times;
• stand (sit) straight, roll your shoulders, slowly turn your head to the right and left as much as possible, repeat 5-6 times;
• the chin is lowered to the neck, in this position the head is also slowly turned to the left and right 5-6 times;
• the head leans back slightly, tilts the head to the left and right, trying to reach the corresponding shoulder with the ear, performs 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.

Circular head movements are not suitable for charging; such exercises can cause neck injuries.

Lying exercises

Supine exercises for cervical osteochondrosis consist of the following actions:

• lie on your back, stretch your legs, then pull them to your chest, hug them with your hands, slowly raise your head, touch your knees with your forehead, after which they also slowly return to their original position;
• the arms extend widely to the sides and, lifting the body, reach with the right palm with the left and vice versa;
• Lying on your stomach with your legs and arms extended, raise your head and shoulders, leaning on your lower body;
• in the same position, the head is turned left and right, returning each time to its original position.

Lying exercises for the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine are performed 4-5 times, the last - 8-10. In the course of performing any action, they control the sensations; if pain occurs, the intensity of the load is reduced.

Drug therapy

In the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, taking drugs is aimed at eliminating the symptoms of the disease. Its supportive function focuses on reducing pain, replenishing vitamins, and increasing tissue regeneration.

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

• anti-inflammatory;
• antispasmodic;
• antioxidants;
• medicines to improve blood supply;
• increased regeneration of cartilaginous tissues.

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

In the absence of pain and destructive changes, taking medication can be completely unnecessary.

Folk remedies

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

The main goal of home remedy treatment is to warm the affected area and give the body the necessary vitamins 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 prepared for oral administration in the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine:

• celery root is chopped through a grater, 3 grams are poured with a liter of boiling water, it is insisted for 8 hours, filtered, consumed before meals three times a day, oneteaspoonful;
• 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 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, filtered and added a tablespoon of honey, a quarter glass is drunk 4 times a day before meals;
• Using 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, shaking the jar beforehand.

Compress

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 place, wrap 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 on a sore spot, and 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 for two hours.

Ointments

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

• mother and stepmother flowers, along with stems, are poured with ammonia, left to stand in a dark place for a month, used to lubricate the sore spot;
• prepare a mixture of ginger juice and calendula tincture from a pharmacy, for sensitive skin diluted with water in a ratio of 1: 1, used to rub before loading, helps to 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 infused for several days in a dark place, the resulting film is discarded, the solution is used for grindingin acute pain.

Massage

In cervical osteochondrosis, massage can be an integral part of complex therapy. In this case, the neurologist prescribes referral to a specialist. In case of an independent decision on massage, it is recommended to first consult a doctor.

Taking into account the specificity 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 pain in the neck.

Contraindications of massage for cervical osteochondrosis:

• there are tumors in the body, regardless of location;
• active tuberculosis;
• uncured venereal diseases;
• skin diseases at the site of inflammation, including moles, warts, cracks, abrasions;
• for diseases of the circulatory system, massage is included in therapy at the discretion of the physician;
• aneurysms, ostiomyelitis.

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:

• capture area: from the hair growth zone to the level below the shoulders;
• can act with one or two hands simultaneously, depending on your convenience;
• a certain sequence of actions must be followed.

The procedure to perform a massage for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine includes the following steps:

• for half a minute, with the palm of your hand pressed, stroke the skin in the area of ​​inflammation;
• the movements are continued by pressing with the edge of the palm or with the fingertips;
• fingers continue rubbing, pulling the skin from the sides to 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 complete, repeat the first action, gently rubbing the palm.

It is recommended to repeat each action 6 to 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 family 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 contribute to the restoration and regeneration of tissues.

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

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

Recommended recipes for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine include fish and meat jellies, jellied meat and aspic dishes. Pay attention to the use of virgin olive oil. Apply without heat treatment. The food itself is preferable to boiling, baking or steaming.

Meals should be divided 5 to 6 times. For proper absorption, it is recommended to drink half a liter of liquid a 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 with high sugar content;
• canned food, 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 cause the following complications:

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

The risk of complications in cervical osteochondrosis arises in the absence of treatment for 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 with the complete disability of the patient.

Contraindications for osteochondrosis

If there is a suspicion of the development of cervical osteochondrosis 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 to the treatment in any way;
• to actively participate in sports: running, walking, swimming are useful, however, excessive loads with simulators will only make the situation worse;
• to lead an immobile lifestyle: a prolonged absence 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 creaking of joints - such actions often bring relief, however, they wear down 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 on a soft bed; with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, it is recommended to rest on the floor or on boards;
• wear uncomfortable shoes, wear high heels - lack of full support increases the strain on the spine, which often leads to its deformation.

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

Folk healers should be avoided, no need to set and stretch the spine. Such actions can result in serious injury and complications. Folk recipes are also used only after consulting with a specialist.

Prevention

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

To prevent and prevent this disease, attention is paid to the following aspects:

• excludes hypodynamics - many sports are suitable for this, such as walking, jogging, skiing, swimming, cycling, as well as gymnastics and regular exercise;
• during “seated” work, attention is paid 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 a long time, pause every 45 minutes to warm up and restore blood circulation;
• select an elastic mattress, preferably orthopedic, and a pillow that is not too high for sleeping;
• when lifting weights, the load is distributed to the legs and arms, it is preferable to lift the weight from a half squat, avoid jerks;
• adhere to the diet - a correct diet and fluid intake support metabolism and provide the body with 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 masseuse are recommended.