Cervical osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis in the usual sense for us is a disease of the spine, manifested by a decrease in the height of the discs. But it is a natural process in the body, associated with its aging and the retribution of bipedalism. Changes of this type can be seen in most people between the ages of 25 and 40 and older.

The structure of the cervical spine includes seven C1-C7 vertebrae, connected by elastic tissue of the intervertebral discs. In the arch there are seven processes connected to each other, and blood vessels and nerve endings pass through their small openings. With a disease, the disc loses its strength and elasticity.

The main purpose of a cervical spine x-ray is to rule out spondyloarthritis, osteoporosis, or tumors.

If osteochondrosis is depicted on the x-ray, this has no significant clinical significance.

In general, the prognosis of the pathology is favorable, in the vast majority there is a cure, but it can be delayed for several weeks or months.

Incidence statistics

Most people prone to osteochondrosis are adults. On average, only 15% of cases concern patients under 30 years of age. For people aged 30 to 49, the problem of the cervical vertebrae occurs in 65% of cases. Over the years, there have been more and more complaints about the disease due to the sedentary lifestyle of many workers.

How's it going	The age of women	The age of men
don't progress	58	65
progress slowly	46	46
progressing rapidly	49	fifty

The ratio of severity to disease dynamics is approximately the same in males and females (~50/50). The ages are also almost identical. The difference is only in the group in which the disease does not progress - it is worth noting that the average age of men in this case is 7 years older.

	townspeople	villager	brain work	Physical work
don't progress	41	56	55	55
progress slowly	31	31	29	28
progressing rapidly	28	Fourteen	fifteen	17

It is also worth noting that fast-acting osteochondrosis occurs more often in urban residents than in rural ones.

Causes of disease

Many factors, individually or in combination, affect the condition of the cervical spine.

Osteochondrosis of the cervical region - degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs of the cervical region.

Manifested by pain, general weakness, numbness of the arms and neck, sometimes tinnitus.

To determine the degree of damage to cartilage tissue and the involvement of vessels and nerves in the process, X-rays, CT scans, MRIs and other studies are performed.

Medical and physiotherapeutic treatment, lifestyle correction.

The list of causes contributing to the malnutrition of the intervertebral disc:

• physical inactivity or a sedentary lifestyle;
• incorrect metabolism;
• salt deposits;
• unbalanced diet;
• sedentary work, including driving a vehicle or working at a computer;
• obesity;
• violation of posture;
• depression, stress, overwork;
• viral diseases in chronic form;
• abrupt cessation of training in athletes or incorrect movements during physical exertion;
• wound;
• genetic predisposition;
• childbirth;
• violations in the formation of bone tissues of the spine;
• hypothermia;
• bodybuilding;
• flat foot.

This list can be supplemented, it all depends on the individual characteristics of development, lifestyle and the presence of concomitant diseases.

The degree of development of the pathology of the intervertebral disc

The pathology develops gradually and there are 4 degrees in total:

1 degree

Signs of manifestation of the disease are minimal, pain in the cervical region is insignificant. When you turn your head, they can intensify and create discomfort. When examined by a doctor, there is slight muscle tension in the neck-collar area.

2 degrees

The pain in this case is stronger than in the description above. And they can give way in the arm or in the shoulder area. This manifestation is provoked by a decrease in the height of the vertebral disc and a violation of the nerve endings in it.

Pain is noted when turning or tilting the head. At the same time, the patient's working capacity decreases, attacks of headaches, general weakness of the body occur.

3 degrees

The pain becomes stronger, numbness of the limbs and weakness of the muscles of the hands appear, which means the formation of intervertebral hernias. This degree of the disease is accompanied by frequent dizziness and general weakness of the body.

4 degrees

This is the most dangerous condition in the body, since there is a complete destruction of the disc and the replacement of bone tissue with rubber band. At the same time, dizziness becomes frequent, noises appear in the back of the head and ears, coordination of movements is disturbed.

This is due to damage to the artery that supplies the cerebellum and the back of the head. At the fourth stage of the disease, the pain in the neck decreases significantly due to the regeneration of cartilage tissue, but pinched nerve endings remain.

Pain syndrome is not always associated with the presence of protrusions, hernias in the spine, more often it is non-specific back pain.

Symptoms

Pain can manifest in various parts of the body, so special examinations should be carried out. For example, pain may occur in the region of the eyeballs, in the dental nerves or in the ears. In some cases, they can spread to the shoulders, arms, shoulder blades, and lower back.

Pain in the heart muscle is not excluded, it can easily be confused with heart disease. If you use drugs that help eliminate pain from heart failure, they will not be beneficial.

Due to cervical osteochondrosis, the arteries can be pinched (which is extremely rare and only with massive osteophytes or large hernias) that supply the brain with blood, hence dizziness, noises in the head, nausea, headaches, loss of orientation, decreased visual function may appear and hear.

place of event	characteristic sensations
Cervical	It hurts and dizziness, it is difficult to breathe, hearing and vision deteriorate, hoarseness appears in the voice, hands go numb.
Lumbar	Sharp or dull lower back pain, sweating problems, leg cramps, cold feet, menstrual irregularities, erectile dysfunction.
thoracic	It is difficult to breathe, tightness in the chest or back, the pain radiates to the region of the heart and occurs when bending over and breathing.

After a long time in an upright position of the body and a strong elevation, severe dizziness may occur. Fingers, toes and the tip of the nose are often cold.

Each case is individual and before prescribing medications, an examination should be carried out.

Syndromes with cervical osteochondrosis

A syndrome is a set that combines several clinical signs. The following varieties are distinguished.

Cardiac

Symptoms are similar to the picture manifested by a violation of the heart, as well as a condition preceding a heart attack. This category includes:

• burning and pain in the chest;
• increased fatigue;
• dyspnea;
• general weakness;
• frequent heartbeats.

To differentiate cervical osteochondrosis from heart disease, functional tests and electrocardiography are used.

Vertebral

Such a syndrome indicates the relationship of the pathological condition with cartilage and the body of bone tissue. Includes three main symptoms:

• painduring chokers;
• changes inspacebetween the vertebrae and their body;
• breachmobilityin the neck area.

These characteristics are directly related to each other. If one of the symptoms is absent, we are not talking about vertebral syndrome.

vertebral artery

It indicates the relationship between disease processes and the arteries that supply brain tissue. The syndrome includes the following symptoms which are directly related to impaired blood flow in the brain:

• nerve irritationendings, which is manifested by migraines, severe headaches, tinnitus, numbness of the limbs;
• dysfunctionblood flowin the trunk, which will be indicated by attacks of nausea and vomiting, dizziness, changes in blood pressure;
• defaultoxygen, manifested by drowsiness, depression, fainting, decreased performance.

The development of the syndrome is facilitated not only by cervical osteochondrosis, but also by other pathological processes.

Root

The manifestation is based on the connection of 1 of the 8 pairs of roots innervating the cervical spine. Typically, only one side of the body is affected.

The following symptoms will indicate a conductivity violation:

• 1-2 pairs- pain in the back of the head;
• third- difficulty chewing food, numbness of the tongue;
• Fourth- hiccups, pain in the collarbone;
• fifth- Difficulty moving the shoulder joint;
• sixth- discomfort in the forearms and shoulder blades;
• seventh- numbness of the middle finger and index finger of the upper limbs;
• eighth- violation of the mobility of the little fingers and ring fingers on the hands.

Since in most cases several couples are involved in the pathological process at once, mixed symptoms are observed.

Diagnostic

To diagnose the presence of the disease, an analysis of the patient's lifestyle, including his professional activity, is initially carried out. Summarizes symptom information. In addition, a survey is conducted for the presence of a similar pathology among family members to determine hereditary predisposing factors.

Next, a direct examination of the neck and back in different positions is performed to determine changes in posture and visible disc locations. Painful areas and places of muscle tension are felt. But these are only external examinations, and a more detailed picture can only be drawn up with the help of instrumental methods.

X-ray of the cervical spine

The information content of this method for the diagnosis of hernia is low.

computed tomography

This is a more advanced way to detect changes in the vertebrae, but it is difficult to determine the size and presence of hernias, as well as places of compression of the spinal cord.

MRI

This method is the most progressive, compared to the two previous ones. With it, you can draw a detailed conclusion about the size, location and structure of intervertebral changes.

Double-sided ultrasonic scanning

It is used for suspected changes in blood flow in the vertebral arteries, including its speed and the presence of obstructions.

Rheoencephalography or REG

This examination aims to study the normal blood supply and blood outflow from the brain. Currently, it is rarely prescribed due to its low information content.

The above diagnostic methods can be used individually or in combination to determine the cause of the disease.

Treatment

It is completely impossible to cure cervical osteochondrosis, but with the help of certain methods this process can be slowed down.

With an exacerbation of this disease, as a rule, drugs for pain relief are prescribed, and together with them vitamins and muscle relaxants, the latter are aimed at increasing the elasticity of soft bone tissues. Specialists prescribe massage procedures, wearing a collar Shants. Electrophoresis and ultrasound procedures are also effective.

You can massage yourself, but only after consulting a specialist. The main methods are:

• kneadingmuscles - deep external impact, grasping the fold, relatively strong compression and pressure;
• lightvibration- tap and shake;
• trituration- a small application of effort to apply the friction in the state of muscle warm-up;
• stroking- the movements are smooth without effort;
• pressing- Slight pressure and release.

With the help of manual therapy, you can get rid of chronic pain and correct your posture. Its direction is to warm up the muscles, relieve tension, restore the normal functions of the joints, and with a marked effect on the pathogenic areas, the restoration of the cervical vertebrae occurs.

Acupuncture - this method promotes the release of the hormone cortisol, which has anti-inflammatory properties, into the bloodstream.

Exercise therapy at home

Properly performed therapeutic exercises have the most positive effect. The basic principle of the exercise is based on the normalization of blood flow in the damaged area.

During exercise therapy, strong tilts and rotation of the head should not be used. Movements are allowed in which the joints are in their original position.

There are a number of effective exercises for osteochondrosis of the cervical region.

First

Lie on your stomach, put your hands on the floor. Raise your head and torso. The back forms a straight line. In this position, you need to stand for about two minutes. Then slowly take the starting position. The number of repetitions is not more than 3.

Second

Sit down and lean forward while inhaling. In this case, the head should touch the chest. On the exhale, the head is tilted and tilted back. You need to repeat up to 15 times.

Third

In a seated position, turn your head alternately in each direction. In this case, the movements should be smooth and superficial. If dizziness occurs, exercise should be stopped.

Exercise therapy is allowed only in the absence of exacerbation of the pathology. The best effect is obtained at the time of recovery.

The absence of pain and discomfort will indicate the correct use of the complex.

Orthopedic pillows

As a rule, most of the time a person is in a sedentary state. As a result, pain in the back begins to appear. The rest of the vertebral section is possible only at night during sleep. It is therefore important to choose the right pillow.

Orthopedic items for sleep help reduce stress and normalize the physiological position of the spine at night.

Before choosing a pillow, you should consult your doctor. An experienced specialist will select the most suitable options, taking into account the stiffness, the presence of rollers along the edges, intended for placement under the neck.

If a person is overweight, a pillow with a shoulder notch may be recommended.

To achieve the maximum effect, it is also important to consider the following criteria:

1. The size. If a person is used to sleeping on his back, then the optimal height will be 9 cm, if he is on his stomach, then less.
2. Diplomarigidity. Here you should also consider your preferred sleeping position. If you sleep on your stomach most of the time, a softer product will do; on the back, it is better to opt for a hard pillow.
3. The form. To rest at night, doctors advise taking a rectangular model. For a short rest, the half-moon option is suitable.

The main disadvantage of orthopedic pillows is that with the wrong choice a person will constantly feel discomfort.

needle applicator

It is a device consisting of a fabric base and an elastic material on which spiked plastic plates are attached. Additionally, the kit may include inserts with magnetic strips.

The work of the device is based on the effect of acupuncture on the human body. Using the applicator for cervical osteochondrosis helps to:

• eliminationspasmsand muscle relaxation
• suction cupssoreback syndrome;
• standardizationblood flow;
• improvementmobilityjoints;
• revitalizationmetabolic processes in tissues.

The main contraindications for use:

• chronicdiseases;
• pregnancy;
• oncologicalpathology;
• epilepticattacks;
• tendency tobleeding;
• cardiaclung diseases and injuries.

The therapeutic course lasts 14-21 days in accordance with all prescriptions of the attending physician. Only use the device in a well-ventilated area.

Diet

Compliance with proper nutrition is an important element in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis.

General recommendations

A properly formulated diet has its own characteristics. First, there are no strict restrictions on food. The menu provides for the use of a variety of healthy foods. In each case, the energy value per day is calculated individually. It is important that proteins, fats, carbohydrates and fibers are constantly present in the diet.

To prevent tissue dehydration, it is recommended to drink at least 1. 5 liters of pure water per day. In summer, the daily rate is significantly increased.

In addition, salt intake should be reduced. Its excessive amount in the body contributes to the appearance of edema and places an additional load on the vascular system. No more than 5 grams of this product is allowed per day.

It is also recommended to reduce the consumption of starch and sugar.

All dishes are steamed, baked, boiled.

Prohibited products

Patients with cervical osteochondrosis will have to give up a large amount of coffee, pastries and sweet products.

From the diet you need to completely exclude:

• dried fish;
• soft drinks;
• pickles;
• canned foods and sausages;
• Cakes;
• fatty broths;
• food supplements.

Also, strong tea, sweet grapes, spicy dishes, marinade and smoked meats are prohibited.

Complications and consequences

Pain resulting from cervical osteochondrosis is not yet a serious symptom of the disease. But if you do not respond to them in a timely manner and take no action, later there may be irreversible processes. The most dangerous disease resulting from displacement or herniation of spinal discs can be cardiovascular pathologies.

By squeezing the arteries passing through the spine, cerebral circulation is disturbed, and as a result, the brain is starved. As a result, the function of the cerebellum and upper parts of the spinal cord is disturbed, noises appear in the back of the head.

Due to poor blood supply, vision is impaired and hearing is lost. Comorbidities begin, such as thyroid disease, migraines, and curvature of the spine. Cervical osteochondrosis can cause a violation of the normal functioning of the digestive system and genitals.

Studying the pathogenesis of the disease, experts found that its origin is often provoked by an unhealthy lifestyle, malnutrition, as well as stress and increased stress on the body. Therefore, it is recommended that if minor signs appear, contact your doctor to prevent their evolution into a more serious pathology.

Prevention

Preventive measures to prevent such a disease should be different. Experts recommend:

• sleepon a medium-firm mattress and a low pillow;
• visit periodicallybathor a sauna. It helps relieve tension in the muscles;
• take dailyshowerwith hot water;
• walk morewalk, swim or do yoga exercises;
• notroundon the sides of the head sharply;
• after work forthe computerat the end of each hour, rest for five minutes, while working with your hands, doing small flexions of the bust, without forgetting to maintain your posture;
• atsedentarywork to keep your back straight;
• specially selectthe couchesor comfortable chairs for work.

In addition to the physical impact on the proper functioning of the cervical vertebrae, it is necessary to adjust the diet. To do this, you need to eat a little, but often - at least 5 times a day.

Steam dishes will ensure good digestion and will not have a negative effect on soft bone tissue. It is necessary to drink at least one and a half liters of clean water per day and completely exclude alcoholic beverages and smoking. It is recommended to dress salads with olive oil.

The following foods should be included in the nutritious diet:

• rabbit meat,Chickenor lean beef
• tomatoesand cucumbers, cabbage, beets, avocados, celery, spinach, lettuce, peppers, carrots and onions;
• leancheeses, cottage cheese and milk;
• fish, squid, crabs and oysters;
• gooand jelly;
• plantsunflower, almonds and hazelnuts;
• cereals, eggs and mushrooms.

It is recommended to exclude from the diet or limit the amount of consumption:

• fatty soups;
• Beans;
• Beans;
• grape seed;
• smoked meats;
• flour products and spicy dishes.

As a preventive measure, you can perform simple physical exercises:

1. lie onstomachand put your hands on the ground. Then slowly and carefully raise your head and fix this position for a minute. After returning to the starting position. Then repeat 3 or 4 times.
2. Lying on your stomach, handsarrangealong the body, then gently turn the head to the right. Return to the starting position and also turn your head to the left. Repeat on both sides 5 times.
3. Sitting on a chairto drophead until the chin touches the body. Do this exercise while exhaling. Then take the starting position. After inhaling the air from the lungs, tilt your head back. Repeat the exercise - 10 times.
4. Turnhead 4 times clockwise and counterclockwise, but if the state of health allows.

Exercise complexes can be different, a medical worker will help you choose them.

In any case, before performing gymnastics, it is necessary to consult a specialist, and if during the exercises you feel dizzy or experience pain, stop them and consult your doctor.

Answers to common questions

Which doctor treats?

At the first signs of the development of pathology, you should contact a therapist who, after an initial examination, will refer you to a neurologist (it is he who treats problems with the nervous system), a radiologist and a specialist in tomography. The vertebrologist conducts further diagnostics and prescribes treatment. An osteopath will help determine the location of the lesion.

On which pillow to sleep with cervical osteochondrosis?

Experts recommend using only orthopedic pillows for sleeping. They must meet the following requirements: elastic, moderately dense, rectangular in shape, small in size.

How long does an exacerbation last?

The duration of an attack is on average 2 to 5 days. However, after this period, for another 2-3 weeks, the patient will feel discomfort in the affected area of the spinal region. Thus, the exacerbation phase can last from several days to several months.

How long to lie on the needle applicator?

With cervical osteochondrosis, one session lasts no more than 7 minutes. At the same time, every 60 seconds you need to slightly change the position of the head and back. It is necessary to carry out 2-3 procedures per day.