Cervical osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis, in the usual sense, is a disease of the spine, which manifests itself in a decrease in the height of the discs. But this is a natural process in the body that comes with aging and the retribution of bipedalism. Changes of this nature can be seen in most people in the age group of 25-40 years and older.

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

The main purpose of an X-ray examination of the cervical spine is to rule out spondylitis, osteoporosis or tumors.

If there is osteochondrosis on the X-ray, this has no important clinical significance.

In general, it can be said that the prognosis of the pathology is favorable, recovery occurs in the vast majority, but it can take several weeks or months.

Occurrence statistics

The majority of people prone to osteochondrosis are adults. On average, only 15% of cases occur in patients under the age of 30. For people between 30 and 49 years of age, the problem related to 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 are you	Age of women	The age of men
It's not progressing	58	65
It's moving slowly	46	46
is moving fast	49	fifty

The ratio of severity and dynamics of the disease is approximately the same in men and women (~ 50/50). The age is almost the same. The difference is only in the group where the disease does not progress - it can be noticed that the average age of men in this case is 7 years older.

	city dwellers	Villager	Brain work	Physical work
It's not progressing	41	56	55	55
It's moving slowly	31	31	29	28
is moving fast	28	fourteen	fifteen	17

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

Causes of the 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 in the cervical region.

It is manifested by pain, general weakness, numbness of the arms and neck, and sometimes tinnitus.

X-ray, CT, MRI and other tests are performed to determine the degree of damage to the cartilage tissue and the involvement of vessels and nerves in the process.

Medical and physiotherapy treatment, lifestyle correction.

List of causes contributing to malnutrition of the intervertebral disc:

• physical inactivity or a sedentary lifestyle;
• improper metabolism;
• salt deposits;
• unbalanced diet;
• sedentary work, including driving or computer work;
• obesity;
• violation of posture;
• depression, stress, overload;
• viral diseases in chronic form;
• sudden stop of training of athletes or incorrect movements during physical exertion;
• injury;
• genetic predisposition;
• child-birth;
• violation of the formation of bone tissues of the spine;
• hypothermia;
• weight-lifting;
• crow's feet.

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

The degree of development of intervertebral disc pathology

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

1 degree

The signs of the disease are minimal, the pain in the neck region is insignificant. When you turn your head, they can intensify and cause discomfort. During the medical examination, slight muscle tension is observed in the neck-collar zone.

2 degrees

The pain in this case is stronger than described above. And they can be injected into the arm or the shoulders. This manifestation is caused by a decrease in the height of the spinal disc and damage to the nerve endings in it.

Pain is observed when turning or tilting the head. At the same time, the patient's ability to work decreases, headache attacks and general weakness occur.

3 degrees

The pain intensifies, numbness of the limbs and weakness of the hand muscles appear, which means the development of an intervertebral hernia. This degree of the disease is accompanied by frequent dizziness and general weakness of the body.

4 degrees

This is the most dangerous condition of the body, because the disc is completely destroyed and the bone tissue is replaced by elastic. At the same time, dizziness becomes frequent, noise appears in the back of the head and in the ears, and the coordination of movements causes confusion.

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

The pain syndrome is not always associated with protrusions and hernias in the spine, more often non-specific back pain.

Symptoms

The pain can manifest itself in different parts of the body, so special tests must be performed. For example, pain may occur in the area 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.

Myocardial pain is not excluded, they can easily be confused with heart disease. If you are using medications that help eliminate pain from heart failure, they will not be beneficial.

Due to cervical osteochondrosis, the arteries that supply blood to the brain can be pinched (which is extremely rare and only in massive osteophytes or large hernias), so dizziness, noise in the head, nausea, headache, disorientation, and impaired vision can occur. appear and be heard.

Place of manifestation	characteristic sensations
Cervical	It hurts and makes you dizzy, it's hard to breathe, your hearing and vision deteriorate, hoarseness appears in your voice, your hands go numb.
Lumbar	Lower back pain - sharp or dull, sweating problems, leg cramps, cold feet, menstrual disorders, erectile dysfunction.
thoracic	Shortness of breath, tightness in the chest or back, pain radiating to the heart region and occurring when bending and breathing.

Severe dizziness may occur after a prolonged vertical position of the body and a sharp rise. Fingers, toes and the tip of the nose are often cold.

Each case is unique, and before prescribing drugs, an examination should be carried out.

Syndromes associated with cervical osteochondrosis

A syndrome is a group that combines several clinical features. We distinguish the following types.

Heart

The symptoms are similar to the picture that manifests itself in the violation of the heart, as well as in the condition preceding the heart attack. This category includes:

• burning sensation and pain in the chest;
• increased fatigue;
• shortness of breath;
• general weakness;
• frequent heartbeat.

Functional tests and electrocardiography are used to distinguish between cervical osteochondrosis and heart disease.

Spine

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

• painduring neck turns;
• will changespacebetween the vertebrae and their bodies;
• violationmobilityin the neck area.

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

Vertebral artery

It indicates the connection between the pathological processes and the arteries feeding the brain tissue. The syndrome includes the following symptoms, which are directly related to the disturbance of blood flow to the brain:

• irritation of the nervesendings, which manifests itself in migraines, severe headaches, tinnitus, and numbness of the limbs;
• dysfunctionblood flowin the trunk, which is indicated by nausea and vomiting, dizziness, changes in blood pressure;
• faultoxygen, manifests itself in the form of drowsiness, depression, fainting, and 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 one of the 8 pairs of roots innervating the cervical spine. Usually only one side of the body is affected.

The following symptoms indicate a violation of conductivity:

• 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 forearm and shoulder blades;
• seventh- numbness of the middle and index fingers on 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 the same time, mixed symptoms can be observed.

Diagnostics

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

The neck and back are then directly examined in various positions to determine changes in posture and visible disc sites. Painful areas and places of muscle tension can be felt. But these are only external tests, a more detailed picture can only be drawn with the help of instrumental methods.

X-ray of the cervical spine

The information content of this method for diagnosing a hernia is small.

CT scan

This is a more advanced method of detecting 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 previous two. With this, you can draw a detailed conclusion about the size, location and structure of the intervertebral changes.

Ultrasonic duplex 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

The purpose of the examination is to study the normal blood supply and the outflow of blood from the brain. Currently, it is rarely prescribed due to the low information content.

The above diagnostic methods can be used separately 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 the aggravation of this disease, pain-relieving drugs are usually prescribed, along with vitamins and muscle relaxants, which are aimed at increasing the flexibility of soft bone tissues. Specialists prescribe massage treatments with a Shants collar. Electrophoresis and ultrasound procedures are also effective.

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

• kneadingmuscles - deep external impact, grasping the drive, relatively strong grip and pressure;
• lightvibration- knocking and shaking;
• trituration- a small application of efforts to achieve friction in the state of muscle warm-up;
• Caress- the movements are smooth, without effort;
• squeeze- Slight pressure and release.

With the help of manual therapy, you can get rid of chronic pain and correct your posture. Its purpose is to warm up the muscles, relieve tension, restore the normal functioning of the joints, and with a sharp effect on the pathogenic zones, 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

Correctly performed therapeutic exercises have the most positive effect. The main principle of the exercise is based on the normalization of blood flow in the injured area.

Strong bending and turning of the head should not be used during exercise therapy. Movements in which the joints are in their original position are allowed.

There are many 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. You should stand in this position for about two minutes. Then slowly return to the starting position. The number of repetitions is not more than 3.

Second

Sit down and lean forward as you inhale. In this case, the head should touch the chest. On exhalation, the head tilts and leans back. You should repeat it no more than 15 times.

Third

While sitting, rotate your head in both directions. In this case, the movements should be smooth and shallow. If dizziness occurs, the exercise should be stopped.

Exercise therapy is allowed only in the absence of aggravation of the pathology. The best effect is achieved during recovery.

The absence of pain and discomfort indicates the correct use of the complex.

Orthopedic pillows

Generally, most of the time a person is sitting. As a result, back pain begins to appear. The rest of the spinal section is possible only at night, during sleep. That's why it's important to choose the right pillow.

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

Consult your doctor before choosing a pillow. An experienced specialist will select the most suitable options, taking into account the stiffness, the presence of rollers along the edges, which can be placed under the neck.

If someone is overweight, a shoulder pillow is recommended.

In order to achieve the maximum effect, the following criteria should also be taken into account:

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. Degreestiffness. Here, too, you need to consider your favorite sleeping position. If you sleep on your stomach most of the time, a softer product will also do, and for your back, you should choose a hard pillow.
3. The form. For night rest, doctors advise you to buy a rectangular model. The half-moon option is suitable for a short rest.

The main disadvantage of orthopedic pillows is that if you make the wrong choice, you will experience constant discomfort.

Needle applicator

It is a device consisting of a fabric base and a flexible material on which spiked plastic plates are attached. In addition, the kit may contain magnetic stripe inserts.

The operation of the device is based on the acupuncture effect on the human body. The use of the applicator contributes to cervical osteochondrosis:

• terminationconvulsionsand muscle relaxation
• cuppingpainfulback syndrome;
• normalizationblood circulation;
• improvementmobilityjoints;
• revitalizationmetabolic processes in tissues.

Main contraindications for use:

• chronicdiseases;
• pregnancy;
• oncologicalpathology;
• epilepticattacks;
• I tend tobleeding;
• heart-disease and lung injury.

The therapeutic course lasts 14-21 days, according to all the prescriptions of the attending physician. Use the device only in a well-ventilated area.

Diet

Adherence to proper nutrition is an important element in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis.

General recommendations

A properly prepared diet has its own characteristics. First, there are no strict restrictions on food. The menu offers a variety of healthy dishes. The daily energy value is calculated individually in each case. It is important that proteins, fats, carbohydrates and fibers are constantly present in the diet.

In order to prevent the tissues from drying out, it is recommended to drink at least 1. 5 liters of clean water per day. In summer, the daily fee increases significantly.

In addition, salt intake should be reduced. Its excessive amount in the body contributes to the appearance of edema and puts an additional burden on the vascular system. A maximum of 5 grams of this product per day is allowed.

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

All dishes are steamed, oven-baked and boiled.

Prohibited products

Patients with cervical osteochondrosis should give up large amounts of coffee, pastries and sweet products.

The following should be completely excluded from the diet:

• dried fish;
• carbonated beverages;
• pickles;
• canned goods and sausages;
• cookies;
• fatty broths;
• nutritional supplements.

In addition, strong tea, sweet grapes, spicy foods, marinades 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 react to them in time and do nothing, then irreversible processes may occur later. Cardiovascular pathologies can be the most dangerous disease resulting from displacement or herniation of discs.

When the arteries passing through the spine are compressed, cerebral circulation is disrupted, and the brain experiences starvation accordingly. Because of this, the function of the upper parts of the cerebellum and spinal cord is disrupted, noises appear in the back of the head.

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

By studying the pathogenesis of the disease, experts found that its origin is often caused by an unhealthy lifestyle, malnutrition, stress and increased stress on the body. Therefore, it is recommended that if minor symptoms appear, consult your doctor to avoid the development of a more serious pathological condition.

Prevention

Preventive measures to prevent such a disease must be different. Experts recommend the following:

• sleepon a medium hard mattress and a low pillow;
• visit regularlybathtubor sauna. This helps relieve muscle tension;
• take dailyshowerwith hot water;
• walk moreon foot, swimming or doing yoga exercises;
• noturnsharp on the sides of the head;
• after workcomputerat the end of each class, rest for five minutes while working with your hands, do small trunk bends, do not forget to maintain your posture;
• atsittingwork to keep your back straight;
• to be specially selectedarmchairsor comfortable chairs for work.

In addition to the physical effect on the proper functioning of the cervical vertebrae, the nutritional diet must also be modified. To do this, you need to eat a little, but often - at least 5 times a day.

Steam pots ensure good digestion and will not have a negative effect on soft bone tissue. You should drink at least one and a half liters of clean water per day, and completely exclude alcoholic beverages and smoking. We recommend salads with olive oil.

The following foods should be included in a nutritious diet:

• rabbit meat,Chickenor lean beef
• tomatoand cucumbers, cabbage, beets, avocados, celery, spinach, lettuce, peppers, carrots and onions;
• thincheeses, cottage cheese and milk;
• fishsquid, crabs and oysters;
• jellyand jelly;
• seedsunflower, almonds and hazelnuts;
• cereals, eggs and mushrooms.

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

• fatty soups;
• puppet;
• puppet;
• solo;
• smoked meats;
• flour products and spicy dishes.

For preventive purposes, you can do simple physical exercises:

1. lie downstomachand put your hands on the floor. Then slowly and carefully raise your head and fix this position for one minute. After returning to the starting position. So repeat 3-4 times.
2. Lying on stomach, handsto orderalong the body, then carefully turn the head to the right. Return to the starting position and also turn your head to the left. Repeat 5 times on each side.
3. Sitting on a chairbetrayhead until the chin touches the body. Do this exercise while exhaling. Then take the starting position. After inhaling air from the lungs, tilt your head back. Repeat the exercise - 10 times.
4. It rotateshead 4 times clockwise and to the left, but if the state of health allows it.

Complexes of exercises can be different, a healthcare worker will help you choose them.

In any case, consult a specialist before the exercise, and if you feel dizzy or pain during the exercises, you should stop and consult your doctor.

Answers to frequently asked questions

What kind of doctor treats you?

At the first signs of the development of pathology, you should contact a therapist who, after the initial examination, will make a referral to a neurologist (he is the one who treats problems with the nervous system), a radiologist and a specialist. tomography. The vertebrologist then diagnoses and prescribes treatment. The osteopath will help determine the location of the injury.

What kind of pillow should we sleep on in case of cervical osteochondrosis?

Experts recommend using only orthopedic pillows for sleep. They must meet the following requirements: flexible, medium density, rectangular, small in size.

How long does the exacerbation last?

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

How long should I lie on the needle applicator?

In the case of cervical osteochondrosis, one session lasts no more than 7 minutes. At the same time, you need to slightly change the position of your head and back every 60 seconds. 2-3 procedures should be performed daily.