Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis

Cervical osteochondrosis is a degenerative and dystrophic disease of one of the sections of the spine. With the development of the disease, the intervertebral discs in the neck suffer the most, and the damage also spreads to the articular surfaces, ligaments and vertebrae.

Cervical osteochondrosis is a degenerative and dystrophic disease of one of the sections of the spine. With the development of the disease, the intervertebral discs in the neck suffer the most, and the damage also spreads to the articular surfaces, ligaments and vertebrae. Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine depends on the current stage of the disease. The pathology mainly occurs in patients over 30 years of age, but cases are also noted in young people, especially if a person leads an unhealthy lifestyle and is at risk.

The most common symptom is severe pain in the neck, which can spread down the spine, move to the upper limbs, and turn into a severe headache. Below we will learn which symptoms of cervical spine osteochondrosis are better to start treatment, the causes of the disease and the methods used to fight the problem.

Causes and risk factors

The main reason for the development of osteochondrosis in humans is the ability to walk upright. When walking, the vertebrae put excessive pressure on each other. Each year, this causes a decrease in the amount of intervertebral fluid and connective tissue between the vertebrae, causing the bones to rub against each other and cause severe pain.

The longer cervical osteochondrosis develops without proper treatment, the less chance there is to stop degenerative processes. It is almost impossible to restore connective tissue in old age.

Cervical osteochondrosis in old age is a mostly natural process that is not related to the influence of external factors. If the problem begins to develop at an early age, if the pain intensifies very quickly, the cause of such a violation should be sought.

The development of cervical osteochondrosis at an early age is mostly due to the following factors:

• Lack of physical activity in daily life. In the modern world, a person leads a mostly sedentary lifestyle - he works in the office all day, spends time sitting on the couch or at the computer in the evenings, often drives a car;
• In the process of performing work tasks, the human body often takes an unnatural, tense position (strong forward deviation when working at the computer);
• Too much exercise. The opposite reason is to play sports with uncontrolled loads. Not only ordinary citizens, but also professional athletes face the problem;
• The reasons that cause the spine to be in the wrong position are flat feet, wearing uncomfortable shoes with heels, scoliosis, arthritis, etc. ;
• Harmful food abuse, obesity;
• Severe hypothermia of the cervical spine;
• Nervous tension - frequent stress in everyday life and work, lack of proper sleep at night.

Vertebral syndrome

The complex of symptoms is associated with damage to the bones and cartilages of the spine. This includes:

• mobility impairment in the cervical region;
• pain when turning the head;
• X-ray signs of damage to the vertebrae themselves and the space between them.

vertebral artery syndrome

Symptoms are caused by narrowing or spasm of the vertebral arteries, which are partially responsible for blood supply to the brain. It manifests itself with the following symptoms:

• noise in the ears;
• dizziness;
• jumps in blood pressure;
• nausea and vomiting;
• Headache;
• visual impairment;
• reduced working capacity;
• drowsiness;
• don't faint.

Heart syndrome

This is similar to a condition with damage to the heart muscle and includes:

• pain or burning sensation behind the sternum;
• weakness and fatigue;
• rapid pulse.

radicular syndrome

The condition is associated with damage (compression or compression) of the nerve roots exiting the spinal column in the cervical region. Depending on the level of damage, a person may:

• numbness or pain in the back of the head;
• numbness of the tongue;
• collarbone pain, difficulty swallowing, hiccups;
• discomfort in the shoulder region aggravated by hand movements;
• pain in shoulder blades and forearms;
• numbness of the index and middle fingers;
• numbness of the ring finger and little finger.

Often, several nerve roots are involved in the pathological process at once, as a result of which several characteristic symptoms are observed at once.

Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis

All these risk factors and lifestyle characteristics lead to insufficient nutrition of the intervertebral discs in the cervical region. If the problem is not identified and not eliminated, the discs will gradually begin to collapse, the distance between them will decrease, as a result, this will cause the bones to constantly rub against each other. As the connective tissue wears out, bony growths begin to form in the spine, which tends to grow out of control. In advanced cases, growths begin to put pressure on the surrounding tissues, blood vessels, and nerves located in the cervical spine.

Cervical osteochondrosis does not develop immediately, the problem worsens if the symptoms of cervical spine osteochondrosis are not treated properly. The entire course of the disease can be divided into 4 stages. The symptoms experienced by the patient directly depend on the current stage of the problem. Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis include:

• Discomfort in the neck extending to the shoulder area;
• The appearance of pain in the cervical region during sports;
• Stiffness when turning the neck;
• Personal headaches not caused by external factors;
• When you change the position of the head, you can hear a characteristic crunch;
• Numbness and loss of sensitivity of some areas on the back of the head, shoulders, arms, neck skin;
• Hypoxia of trophic dependent organs;
• Development of pathologies of the circulatory system;
• Severe pain leads to complete immobilization of the upper shoulder girdle.

The more the disease progresses, the more anxiety the patient experiences. In the final stages of the problem, the patient's quality of life deteriorates significantly. Common symptoms for all stages of the problem include headache, ringing or noise in the ears, visual disturbances, nausea and vomiting with sudden changes in head position.

Diagnosis of cervical spine osteochondrosis

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it is advisable to consult a doctor immediately. The sooner the problem is detected, the more likely it is to be completely eliminated. A neurologist deals with the diagnosis and treatment of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis of the spine.

After the patient's application, the neurologist will conduct an interview with the patient and based on his complaints, he will conclude that the disease is present. Often, patients complain of pain, discomfort, problems with movement of the upper limbs. After the interview, the doctor will conduct a visual examination of the patient. To be evaluated:

• correct posture;
• At what angle are the shoulder blades, shoulders and iliac bones;
• The location of the line of spinous processes along the length of the spine.

Visual examination allows to determine which pathological processes have started in the spine, how much it affects the spine and surrounding tissues.

The final diagnosis is not made only on the basis of examination and questioning of the patient. Additional examinations are required. Often, the patient is sent for X-ray, computed tomography. If the final diagnosis cannot be made for one reason or another, the patient is sent for magnetic resonance imaging. Additional examinations include dopplerography, the procedure allows you to find out the state of the circulatory system in the cervical region.

Degrees of cervical osteochondrosis

The choice of methods for the treatment of osteochondrosis directly depends on the stage of the disease diagnosed in a particular patient. It is customary to divide osteochondrosis into 4 stages, the division is conditional, because some symptoms can pass from one stage to another or do not appear at all.

1 degree

The initial stage of the problem, if pain is felt at this stage, then it is often attributed to stress or other disorders (improper sleep, prolonged exposure to an uncomfortable situation). The patient may experience mild stiffness and limitation in movements, especially sudden ones. If you are looking for treatment for cervical osteochondrosis at this stage, you can relieve the symptoms at home. To completely get rid of the problem, it will be possible to limit yourself to special exercises and visits to physiotherapy procedures. For prevention, it will be useful to start an active lifestyle (it is enough to walk for 20 minutes daily in the fresh air), adjust the diet (exclude very fatty, fried, salty foods, give preference to fermented milk products, fruits). and vegetables, foods with sufficient calcium and trace elements necessary for the regeneration of connective and cartilage tissue).

2 degrees

The pain intensifies and becomes permanent. Sudden movements and turns cause discomfort, the patient experiences a severe headache, begins to feel very tired from daily activities. Often patients are distracted because they only think about the pain. Some people feel numbness in certain areas of the face.

3 degrees

Herniations begin to develop in the area of the damaged discs, causing dizziness and weakness in the arms. Only the head and neck hurt, the pain gradually spreads to the entire shoulder girdle.

4 degrees

A characteristic process is the destruction of intervertebral discs, the replacement of "empty spaces" with connective tissue. This leads to compression of the nerves, the pain becomes unbearable, it does not go away without taking special drugs. Dizziness occurs in the patient, especially sudden turns of the head and changes in body position, ringing in the ears, sleep is disturbed, the quality of life deteriorates, and disability is possible if not treated.

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis

The doctor chooses the appropriate method for the treatment of the patient depending on the stage of the disease. The most commonly used drug treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is combined with a visit to physiotherapy. In advanced cases, surgery may be required to remove the enlarged connective tissue and bony processes.

Conservative treatment

It is often based on taking certain medications. Drug treatment helps to reduce pain, relieve muscle tension and localize inflammation. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as pain relievers, are used.

Often, the doctor also includes chondroprotectors in the prescription. This group of drugs activates the regeneration of destroyed tissues in the region of the intervertebral discs.

These drugs are prescribed in the form of injections or tablets. A good therapeutic result is demonstrated by ointments based on NSAIDs. They are rubbed on the damaged area, they relieve pain within 10-20 minutes. The main advantage of ointments is local effect on the painful area and minimal effect on other organs.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy procedures have several goals at the same time:

• localization of the inflammatory process;
• elimination of muscle spasm;
• elimination of pain syndrome;
• Initiation of regenerative processes;
• Increase of general and local immunity;
• Restoring the normal state of nerve fibers, eliminating compression and compression.

The following procedures are often prescribed with cervical osteochondrosis:

1. Shock wave therapy. With the help of a special device, the acoustic wave is directed directly to the damaged cartilage tissue of the spine. As a result, metabolic processes are activated, salt and calcium deposits are destroyed, which prevents the normal movement of joints and vertebrae. The procedure is characterized by a cumulative effect, often the first results are noticeable only 2-3 months after the start of treatment.
2. Acupuncture. Acupuncture is often used for the treatment and prevention of cervical osteochondrosis. It is important that the procedure is carried out only by a qualified doctor, otherwise you can face not only the lack of effect, but also the aggravation of the existing condition. The essence of the procedure is that special needles are installed on biologically active points, forcing the body to start metabolic processes, stimulating the production of natural painkillers.
3. Massage. The main goal is to reduce pain and improve blood circulation in the damaged area of the cervical spine. With proper massage, the muscles get lost tone, as a result, it is possible to eliminate the risk of recurrence of osteochondrosis in the future. When visiting the first massage sessions, the patient experiences severe pain, it is important not to stop the treatment due to pain, but to go through all the procedures prescribed by the doctor.

Surgery

It is prescribed mainly in the advanced stages of the disease, when the use of drugs and visits to physiotherapy procedures do not give any results. The indication for surgical intervention is catastrophic narrowing of the spinal canal.

Modern surgical methods allow the patient to be discharged from the hospital after 3-5 days and to undergo outpatient treatment of symptoms of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis. During the next three months, the patient undergoes rehabilitation.

Physiotherapy

A properly selected set of exercises for osteochondrosis can not only improve the general condition of the patient, but also speed up the treatment process of the disease. There are several effective exercises:

1. Turning and tilting the head in different directions. The exercise is performed in a sitting position, it is important not to bend, all movements should be smooth with a gradual increase in the number of repetitions and the amplitude of the slope.
2. The head tilts sideways with resistance. Body position - sitting at the table, one elbow is on the table, palm presses on the temple. Bend your head toward your hand with slight resistance.
3. Shrug. Raise your shoulders as high as possible and fix them in this position for a while.
4. Self-kneading the back of the head and neck with the fingertips. It is important that the movements are gentle and do not cause pain. You can self-massage in any comfortable position.

It is important not to treat cervical osteochondrosis at home without consulting a neurologist, a series of exercises should be agreed with your doctor.

Manual therapy for cervical osteochondrosis

Manual therapy treatment relieves muscle tension and joint congestion, relieves pain and restores the capabilities of the musculoskeletal system. The doctor evaluates the condition of the muscles, determines the pain points and the degree of springing of the spinal joint. In addition, it affects tendons, ligaments and muscles damaged by active and passive movements of the hands. Manual therapy treatment is contraindicated in cases of acute inflammation and instability of the vertebra.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture for cervical osteochondrosis is performed using sterile needles that are inserted into pre-selected points at different depths and left for a certain period of time. The needles are very fine to minimize discomfort. The procedure relieves pain, activates microcirculation, normalizes metabolic processes, improves general health and increases the effectiveness of drug treatment.

Kinesiology taping

This is to apply an elastic bandage in the shape of the letter Y to the area of the neck-collar zone, while maintaining the mobility of the neck. Tapes for cervical osteochondrosis relieve pain, inhibit inflammation and support paravertebral muscles.

Orthopedic collars

In the acute period of the disease, a collar is needed for osteochondrosis of the cervical region. It straightens the bones and joints, reduces the load on the affected segment. The collar also corrects the position of deformed vertebrae and bones of the skeleton and relieves pain.

Depending on the degree of fixation, orthopedic collars are divided into several types:

• soft splint (Schanz collar). This product is made of dense, flexible polyurethane foam on a fabric cover with fastening in the form of Velcro, buttons or plastic fasteners. With its help, you can adjust the volume of the collar. A soft tire is worn from 2 weeks to 4 months, it is necessary to take a break after every two hours of use;
• inflatable collar. It consists of a dense, elastic material. The course of treatment depends on the stage of osteochondrosis. In the first days, it is recommended to wear the collar twice a day for five minutes, gradually increase the time to 30 minutes. An inflatable collar is worn to prevent cervical osteochondrosis;
• semi-rigid collar. A semi-rigid corset for the neck is made of polyurethane with a flap at the back. Makes the neck stronger than a soft tire. It comes in different sizes;
• hard collar. Made of thermoplastic material with front and rear calipers. It is made according to individual measurements and is recommended to be used during the entire treatment of cervical osteochondrosis.

Complications of osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis causes damage to the most important structures: blood vessels and nerves. Without treatment, the disease can cause the following complications:

• ischemic stroke;
• loss of sensitivity or motor function of the hand;
• difficulty swallowing;
• thyroid disorder;
• loss or significant reduction of visual acuity.

In addition, damage to the intervertebral discs and joints causes significant limitation of neck mobility.

What is dangerous cervical osteochondrosis?

Many patients complain that the neck and head hurt at the same time. Patients should choose a certain position in which the pain decreases or seems less severe. This is not always convenient, so performance decreases.

As the disease progresses, disc protrusion develops, intervertebral tissues are destroyed, and spaces decrease. In the final stage of the disease, the disc is completely destroyed and connective tissue is formed in its place. Therefore, the patient's mobility is limited: for example, he cannot turn or bend his head.

If left untreated, cervical osteochondrosis can lead to spinal cord compression, disability, and paralysis.

Prevention

The main rule of preventive measures is that they should be comprehensive and continuously observed. Only in this way will they give the expected result. Prevention is indicated for people at risk.

1. Watch your posture. The ideal position of the body - head and back are in the same line. Always make sure your shoulders are squared, your stomach is pulled in and your chest is lifted. The mileage also plays a role - it should be springy and even. Never compromise yourself, it is important to regulate yourself at the initial stage, the correct posture will become a habit in the future.
2. Well organized workplace. When working, the shoulders should be relaxed, the constant tension of the waist belt directly affects the neck. Basic requirements - a chair with a comfortable back and armrests, a monitor at eye level, a keyboard under the elbows (the angle between the shoulder and the forearm is about 120 degrees). Make it a habit to take a break every 40-50 minutes with basic stretches during work.
3. Adjust the car seat correctly. Many drivers are faced with osteochondrosis of the spine because they set up the driver's seat in a way that suits them, not according to the rules. The correct position of the body in the chair - the whole spine touches the back, not just the shoulders. It is advisable to buy special lumbar pillows that will help support the body in the desired position. It is important to go outside and warm up after 1. 5-2 hours of long driving.
4. Pay attention to your nutrition. Problems with the cervical spine are often associated with poor nutrition of the patient. Dangerous foods that increase the risk of osteochondrosis include: white bread, rich products, sweets, foods high in salt and sugar, fried and fatty foods. The main danger is refined sugar - the substance helps to wash calcium from the body. Include legumes and nuts, high protein foods, seasonal vegetables and fruits in your daily diet. Low-fat fermented milk products - kefir, fermented baked milk, cottage cheese, natural yogurts will also have a positive effect. If you have problems with excess weight, consult a nutritionist.
5. Daily physical activity. Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis at home with the help of physical education is an excellent preventive measure against diseases of the spine. It is important to do the exercises at an easy pace without exceeding the permissible load. If there is no time for a full-fledged exercise set, make it a rule to do daily walks.
6. Massage. Correct methods restore muscle tone, relieve tension, start metabolic and restorative processes in the body. It is not necessary to visit specialists, the correct massage of the cervical spine can be performed independently.
7. Proper sleep. During the day, the intervertebral discs experience increased stress, complete rest and relaxation can only be achieved during night sleep. To prevent osteochondrosis, it is important to organize the right place to sleep and watch the time (at least 8 hours).

Sanatorium treatment and its benefits

The sanatorium specializes in identifying the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis and treating diseases of the musculoskeletal system, including various localized osteochondrosis. Procedures are selected individually for each individual patient, taking into account the degree of damage to the tissues of the spine, the presence of concomitant diseases, the patient's age and possible contraindications.

An integrated approach is applied - a combination of drug treatment with physiotherapy and physiotherapy exercises. This approach helps to forget the problem forever.

In the treatment of symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervicothoracic spine, a positive effect is shown by mud therapy, hand and apparatus massage, and various physiotherapy.