Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis

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

The earliest symptoms may appear as early as 20-30 years, but more commonly, the disease becomes obvious after 40 years. It is divided into three categories-lumbar osteochondrosis, thoracic and cervical spine.

Reasons for development

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

• Genetic susceptibility to diseases;
Impaired metabolism, body poisoning, infectious diseases;
• All parts of the spine including the cervical spine are overweight and increase the pressure;
• Lack of liquids, vitamins or trace elements, poor nutritional quality;
• Spinal injuries, contusions, fractures;
• Climate or environmental conditions that adversely affect the human body;
• Wrong posture, curved spine;
• Flat feet, use high heels;
• Sedentary, a sedentary lifestyle;
• Frequent activities, need to change body posture frequently;
• Exercise regularly on the spine;
• Being in an uncomfortable position for a long time;
• Stressed and nervous.

The appearance of osteochondrosis is usually related to professional activities. Continuous physical exercise, high levels of mobility, and sedentary work are the main risk groups.

Due to the objective and external conditions of exposure, another category of people who are prone to cervical osteochondrosis has been formed. Genetics, climate and frequent hypothermia-all these factors put a burden on the spine. It also includes malnutrition and lack of essential substances that can prevent cervical osteochondrosis.

Wrong sleeping posture, long-term inconvenience, especially in uncomfortable positions, wearing uncomfortable shoes-all these constitute another dangerous group. This also includes pregnant women, especially if they have multiple children or an underdeveloped musculoskeletal system.

Stages of osteochondrosis development

The development of osteochondrosis is divided into four stages. The initial feature is the development of nucleus pulposus pathology. Lack of water and pressure in the cervical spine can cause deformation of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs and the appearance of fibrous cracks.

There are usually no symptoms at this stage. In prolonged uncomfortable body positions, their performance is reduced to mild pain. During active exercise, their performance also reduces some discomfort.

By the beginning of the second stage of cervical osteochondrosis, the height of the intervertebral disc decreases. This causes the distance between the vertebrae to decrease and muscles and ligaments to sag.

At this stage, the mobility of the affected vertebrae increases. This is manifested as expressive pain with certain movements and postures. Under certain loads, discomfort will also appear.

In the third stage of the development of cervical osteochondrosis, herniated and herniated discs are formed. Usually, the disease is accompanied by dislocation of the corresponding joints and arthritis.

This stage of cervical osteochondrosis is usually accompanied by stiffness of certain movements. It also showed insufficient mobility, and felt numbness and numbness in the limbs. The neck pain becomes obvious.

The fourth stage of cervical osteochondrosis is characterized by the body's attempt to independently correct the increase in vertebral mobility. Where they touch, osteophytes form, focusing on trying to fix the desired position of the spine.

These bone formations usually cause nerve jams. Fibrosis begins to develop in the intervertebral discs and joints. When the nerve endings are clamped, the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis worsen. However, if there is no pinch injury, the signs of the disease may disappear completely.

Symptoms

Different stages of cervical osteochondrosis have different symptoms. Many early patients did not seek medical help.

Situations that require expert consultation include the following signs:

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder, does not disappear at night, pain in the neck, eyes and ear areas, back of the head and shoulder straps;
• Frequent arm pain, physical exertion, and muscle weakness aggravated;
• Difficulty in maneuvering, reduced sensitivity and mobility of hands and fingers;
• Numbness, burning, tingling in the hands and feet;
• In the morning, the neck muscles are tense, there is a feeling of "laziness", and the neck mobility is low;
• You will feel pain when you rotate and tilt your head, and regularly produce tic pain in the neck and back of the head;
• Headache appears, confined to the occipital bone and spread to the crown and temples;
• Frequent dizziness, darkened eyes, and fainting may occur when the head turns sharply.
• Tinnitus, "flies" appear in front of the eyes, vision and hearing loss, tongue numbness;
• Heart pain, its intensity depends on posture, nitroglycerin cannot relieve it;
• The growth of connective tissue in the cervical spine.

The intensity of cervical osteochondrosis symptoms can be manifested in different ways. Much depends on the location of the complication-the symptoms will vary depending on the vertebra where the nerve endings are pinched.

If the symptoms of osteochondrosis prevent you from living and working adequately, you must see a doctor.

Diagnosis

If there are obvious symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, they will seek a local therapist. It can help determine the source of pain and refer to a neurologist for further evaluation. Based on the diagnosis, neurologists are mentioned in narrower areas of expertise.

The vertebral neurologist handles all problems in spinal treatment. A chiropractor can also help determine the diagnosis. If acute pain occurs, they will be referred to a surgeon.

The diagnosis process of osteochondrosis can be done manually.

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

X-ray of the cervical spine;
• Myelography;
• Nervous system checks limb sensitivity and reflex;
• Cervical CT (CT);
• Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR);
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

The use of Doppler ultrasound or duplex scanning can be prescribed to identify the vascular state in cervical osteochondrosis. It should be emphasized that only suitable experts can diagnose this disease.

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

How to treat cervical osteochondrosis?

Prescribes the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in the form of complex therapy.

The following methods are included in the normal process:

• Take drugs that can eliminate symptoms and promote recovery;
• Physiotherapy-hydrotherapy, electrophoresis and other methods allow you to affect the spine in the right way;
• Therapeutic gymnastics is considered to be an essential method for the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis.

In the treatment process, highly specialized alternative methods can also be used-reflexology, massage and manual therapy, osteopathy, hand and foot therapy and apitherapy.

The main aspect of the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is the comprehensive approach. Depending on the stage of the disease, the main course can last for 1-3 months. In addition, a prescription for recovery and intensive therapy is prescribed, which can be extended by one year.

First Aid

If osteochondrosis worsens, first aid measures are usually changed to medication. For severe pain, use standard painkillers.

If there is no effect of this drug, they will switch to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. However, these drugs may have a negative impact on the gastrointestinal tract. Do not consult a doctor, and only allow them to be used in extreme cases.

Anti-inflammatory analgesics can also relieve the pain intensity of cervical osteochondrosis.

In the case of osteochondrosis worsening, without physical therapy-load may lead to greater complications. If the disease has been diagnosed and a treatment plan has been developed, follow the doctor’s advice. Usually, treatment includes many tools for emergency relief of symptoms.

If this is the first manifestation of the disease-don't postpone going to the doctor. Medications can relieve pain, but comprehensive diagnosis and treatment are required to prevent recurrence.

Sports

The main cause of cervical osteochondrosis is the pressure on this part of the spine. They can either remain immobile in uncomfortable positions for long periods of time, or they can act too vigorously and the musculoskeletal system is underdeveloped.

With this in mind, gymnastics and physical exercise are the key treatments for cervical osteochondrosis. You can do it in the morning, and you can do it at work during the day.

The overall design of the entire movement aims to strengthen the musculoskeletal system, improve blood circulation and restore the mobility of the vertebrae. Gymnastics can be used not only for treatment, but also for preventing cervical osteochondrosis.

Sitting and Standing Exercises

Gymnastics used to treat cervical osteochondrosis in sitting and standing positions includes the following actions:

• Place the palm of your hand on your forehead and place your head against the palm of your hand. Contrary to the resistance of your hand to pressure, repeat this process 3-4 times for 7-10 seconds;
• The back of the head has also undergone a similar treatment-press the head on the opposite palm to tighten the neck muscles;
• Then perform the process in the same way as the left and right sides of the head, placing one hand on the temple;
• As another alternative to practice, you can use a wall, in this case, they put their forehead or the back of their head against the wall and press for a few seconds;
• Throw your head back, overcome the tension of the neck muscles, slowly tilt forward until the chin reaches the breastbone, repeat 5-6 times;
• Stand upright (sitting), turn your shoulders, and slowly rotate your head to the right and left, repeat 5-6 times;
• The chin is lowered to the neck, in this position, the head is also slowly rotated left and right 5-6 times;
• Throw your head back slightly, tilt your head to the left and right, try to reach the corresponding shoulder with your ears, perform 5 times.

Regularly repeat the exercise to treat cervical osteochondrosis. It is especially important for sedentary lifestyles or long periods of discomfort.

Circular movements of the head are not suitable for charging; such movements may cause neck injuries.

Lie down and exercise

Exercise for cervical osteochondrosis in the supine position includes the following actions:

• Lie on your back, stretch your legs, then pull them to your chest, hold them tightly with your hands, slowly raise your head, touch your knees with your forehead, and then slowly return to the original position;
• Spread your arms widely to both sides, raise your body, and stretch your left hand to the right palm, and vice versa;
• Lie on your stomach, straighten your limbs, raise your head and shoulders, and lean on the lower part of your body;
• At the same position, the head rotates left and right, returning to its original position each time.

Lie down to treat cervical osteochondrosis for 4-5 times, the last time is 8-10 times. In the process of performing any action, they will monitor the sensation; if pain occurs, the intensity of the load will decrease.

Medications

When treating cervical osteochondrosis, medication is taken to eliminate the symptoms of the disease. Their supporting role is focused on reducing pain, supplementing vitamins and increasing tissue regeneration.

The drugs used to treat cervical osteochondrosis are divided into the following categories:

• Anti-inflammatory;
• Antispasmodic;
• Antioxidant;
• Drugs to improve blood supply;
• Increase the regeneration of cartilage tissue.

In the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis, the general list of prescription drugs includes tablets, ointments, creams, and in some cases, injections. If severe pain occurs, medications can be used to relieve the pain and blockage of nerve endings.

There is no need to take medication at all without pain and destructive changes.

Folk remedies

Traditional medicine also provides a comprehensive approach in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis. In addition to decoctions and tinctures, ointments based on herbs and products are also used. Also compress.

The main goal of folk remedies is to heat up the affected area and provide the body with vitamins needed for recovery.

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

Decimal and tincture

Prepared the following decoction for oral treatment of cervical osteochondrosis:

Chop, chop, chop the celery root, pour it into 3 grams of boiling water, brew for 8 hours, filter, and eat three teas a day before meals;
• Chop sunflower roots, pour three liters of water into a cup of raw materials, boil for half an hour, and take a small amount after meals to help remove salt in the body;
• Pour 2 tablespoons of oleracea into boiling water, infuse it for 30-40 minutes, drink 3 tablespoons a day, as an anesthetic, anti-inflammatory and tranquilizer.
Crush 3 tablespoons of cattle d, pour 250 grams of boiling water, infuse for 2 hours, sort and add a spoonful of honey, drink a quarter of the cup 4 times a day before meals;
• Use a meat grinder to grind 3 large pitted lemons, 4 cloves of garlic, pour the mixture with two liters of boiling water, drink on an empty stomach, shake the jar in advance.

Compression

Lotion and dressings are actively used to treat cervical osteochondrosis:

• Sprinkle vinegar on the cheese, mix and apply pressure to the sore area, wrap it in a warm scarf, and stay overnight.
• Add one gram of propolis, 50 grams of aloe extract, and mustard powder to half a liter of vodka, soak the bandage with the solution, fix it and place it overnight.

A potato is passed through a grater, mixed with two tablespoons of honey, kneaded into a sore spot, and wrapped in a warm scarf overnight. Pour a tablespoon of eucalyptus into a glass of water, boil for 5 minutes, add a tablespoon of honey, and apply the mixture to the sores for two hours.

Ointment

The following formula is used to wipe the sores of cervical osteochondrosis:

The mother and stepmother's flowers and stems are poured with ammonia water, and they are left in a dark place for a month to lubricate the sores;
• Prepare a mixture of ginger juice and calendula pharmaceutical agent, for sensitive skin, dilute it with water at a ratio of 1: 1, and use it for rubbing before charging to help reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation;
• Mix half a packet of butter with a tablespoon of flour and an egg, then add a tablespoon of vinegar, pour the mixture in a dark place for a few days, then throw away the resulting film, and apply the solution in case of severe painUsed for grinding.

Massage

If it is cervical osteochondrosis, massage can become an indispensable part of complex therapy. In this case, the neurologist is personally referred to the specialist. If you have an independent decision on massage, it is recommended to consult a doctor first.

Considering the particularity of the disease, massage of cervical osteochondrosis should be treated with caution. The procedure is prescribed for the diagnosed disease only on the advice of the doctor and in the case of neck pain.

Massage contraindications for neck osteochondrosis:

• There is a tumor in the body, regardless of its location;
• Active tuberculosis;
• Uncured STDs;
• Skin diseases at the site of inflammation, including moles, warts, cracks, abrasions;
For circulatory diseases,
• is ​​at the discretion of the doctor whether to include massage in the treatment;
• Aneurysm, polio.

If the process is assigned by an expert, no action is required.

When performing self-massage for cervical osteochondrosis, clear instructions and rules should be considered:

• Capture area-from the hair growth area to the position below the shoulder;
• You can conveniently move with one or two hands at the same time;
• must follow a certain sequence of operations.

The process of performing cervical osteochondrosis massage includes the following steps:

• For half a minute, touch the skin of the inflamed area with a tight palm;
• Continue to exercise under pressure from the edge of your palm or finger pads.
• Continue to rub the fingers, pulling the skin from the side to the spine;
• The skin has been kneaded, and the muscles have been captured at the same time, the movement has maintained a strong level, but there is no painful feeling;
• To complete this operation, repeat the first operation with a gentle palm rub.

It is recommended to repeat each action 6 to 7 times to avoid taking half a minute. Because of cervical osteochondrosis, self-massage may be difficult, so they ask friends or relatives for help. However, the use of experts is still recommended.

Nutrition

Comprehensive treatment of cervical osteochondrosis includes diet and nutrition. It focuses on improving metabolism and saturating essential minerals and vitamins in the human body, thereby contributing to tissue recovery and regeneration.

The dietary basis of cervical osteochondrosis includes:

• Dairy products and fermented dairy products;
• Low-fat poultry, fish;
• Fresh vegetables and fruits;
• Nuts and seeds;
• Cereal;
• Mushrooms.

Recommended recipes for cervical osteochondrosis include fish and aspic, jelly meat, and aspic dishes. Pay attention to the use of virgin olive oil. It can be used without heat treatment. The food itself is best boiled, grilled or steamed.

The meal should be divided by 5-6 times. For proper absorption, it is recommended to drink half a liter of liquid every day. Preferable pure water and mineral water, dried fruit preserves, unsweetened fruit drinks, herbal tea.

For cervical osteochondrosis, restrict the consumption of the following products:

• Flour and confectionery products;
• High-fat food, thick broth;
• spicy and salty food or condiments;
• Sugar and high-sugar fruits;
• Canned food, smoked products;
• Beans.

Due to cervical osteochondrosis, the consumption of strong black tea, coffee, alcohol and carbonated products is also restricted.

Complications and dangers

Advanced cervical osteochondrosis can cause the following complications:

• Herniated disc;
• Protrusion and kyphosis;
Radixitis, salt deposits in the spine;
• Spinal cord stroke;
• Limb atrophy due to insufficient blood supply, paralyzed.

The lack of treatment for this disease can lead to the risk of complications of cervical osteochondrosis. Lack of medical services, non-compliance with prescribed treatment plans, ignorance of recommendations-all these will trigger new diseases and ultimately lead to complete disability of the patient.

Contraindications of osteochondrosis

If the development of cervical osteochondrosis is suspected or the disease has been diagnosed, the following measures are not allowed:

• Lifting and lifting heavy objects-the load on the spine will not promote treatment in any way;
• Actively participate in sports-running, walking, swimming are useful, but the overload of the simulator will only make the situation worse;
• Leading an immobile lifestyle-prolonged lack of exercise, warming up and walking in fresh air will adversely affect the overall condition;
• Overeating-often due to overweight, the development of cervical osteochondrosis is not worth aggravating this situation;
• Consume a lot of salt and alcohol-salty and spicy foods and alcohol-containing products should be completely excluded from the diet;
• Careless movement and bite of joints-this kind of action usually brings relief, but it will wear and deform the contact surface of the vertebrae;
• Sleep on a high pillow-in this position, the muscles are tense all night, which will only complicate the disease;
• Sleeping on a soft bed-patients suffering from cervical osteochondrosis, it is recommended to lie on the floor or board;
• Wear uncomfortable shoes, wear high heels-lack of adequate support will increase the tension of the spine, often causing its deformation.

Moreover, for cervical osteochondrosis, self-diagnosis and self-medication of the disease are not allowed. The treatment process should be prescribed and monitored by an expert. Without this, it is not worth expecting recovery at all, and complications will occur in most cases.

The use of civilian therapists should be avoided, and there is no need to stretch and stretch in the spine. Such behavior can cause serious injuries and complications. Folk recipes can only be used after consulting an expert.

Prevention

In most cases, the cause of cervical osteochondrosis is related to incorrect lifestyle.

In order to prevent and prevent such diseases, please pay attention to the following aspects:

• Eliminate low power-many sports are suitable for this, including walking, jogging, skiing, swimming, cycling, gymnastics and regular exercise;
When sitting for a long time, you should pay attention to the posture (straight back, relax the shoulders), the standard position of the arms and legs, and support the spine from the side of the seat;
• While maintaining a fixed posture for a long time, pause every 45 minutes to warm up and restore blood circulation;
Choose an elastic mattress, preferably plastic surgery, and choose a pillow that is not too high to sleep;
• When lifting weights, the load is distributed on the legs and arms. It is best to lift heavy objects in a semi-squatting state to avoid convulsions;
• Adhere to the diet-correct diet and fluid intake help metabolism and provide the body with essential trace elements.

Relaxation also refers to the prevention of cervical osteochondrosis. Stress and nervousness should be avoided, usually the development of the disease is related to psychiatry. It is recommended to visit a masseur regularly.