Cervical osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis in the common sense for us is a disease of the spine, which is shown by a decrease in the height of the disc. But this is a natural process in the body, associated with aging and retribution for bipedalism. Changes like this can be found in most people in the age group of 25-40 years and above.

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

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

If osteochondrosis is described on radiographs, this has no significant clinical significance.

In general, the pathological prognosis is good, in most cases there is recovery, but it can be delayed for several weeks or months.

Incident statistics

Most people who are prone to osteochondrosis are adults. On average, only 15% of cases are in patients under the age of 30. For people from 30 to 49 years old, problems with cervical vertebrae occur in 65% of cases. Over the years, there have been more complaints about this disease due to the sedentary lifestyle of many workers.

How is it?	Female age	Male age
Not advanced	58	65
Slowly progress	46	46
growing rapidly	49	fifty

The ratio of severity and dynamics of the disease is approximately equal in men and women (~ 50/50). The age is almost the same. The difference is only for the group where the disease did not develop - it is noticeable that the average age of men in this case is 7 years older.

	city folks	Villagers	Brain work	Physical work
Not advanced	41	56	55	55
Slowly progress	31	31	29	28
growing rapidly	28	fourteen	fifteen	17

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

Cause 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 disc in the cervical region.

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

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

Medical and physiotherapeutic treatment, lifestyle correction.

List of causes that contribute to malnutrition of the intervertebral disc:

• physical inactivity or a sedentary lifestyle;
• improper metabolism;
• salt deposits;
• unbalanced diet;
• sedentary work, including driving a vehicle or working at a computer;
• obesity;
• violation of posture;
• depression, stress, too much energy;
• viral diseases in chronic form;
• sudden cessation of training in athletes or incorrect movements during physical exercise;
• injury;
• genetic predisposition;
• giving birth;
• violations in the formation of spinal bone tissue;
• hypothermia;
• weight lifting;
• Flat feet.

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

Stages of development of intervertebral disc pathology

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

1 degree

Signs of disease manifestation are minimal, pain in the cervical region is not important. When you turn your head, they can worsen and cause discomfort. When examined by the doctor, there is slight muscle tension in the collar zone of the neck.

2 degrees

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

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

3 degrees

The pain becomes stronger, numbness of the limbs and weakness in the hand muscles appear, which means the formation of an intervertebral hernia. This stage 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 there is a complete destruction of the disc and the replacement of bone tissue with elastic. At the same time, dizziness becomes frequent, noise appears in the back of the head and ears, movement coordination is disturbed.

This is caused by a violation of the arteries that feed the cerebellum and the back of the head. In the fourth stage of the disease, the pain in the neck is significantly reduced due to the regeneration of cartilage tissue, but the pinched nerve endings remain.

The 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 a special examination should be carried out. For example, pain can occur in the eyeball area, in the dental nerve or in the ear. In some cases, it can spread to the shoulders, arms, shoulder blades and lower back.

Pain in the heart muscle is not excluded, they can easily be confused with heart disease. If you use drugs that help relieve pain due to heart failure, then they will not help.

Due to cervical osteochondrosis, arteries can be pinched (which is very rare and only with large osteophytes or large hernias) that feed the brain with blood, so dizziness, noise in the head, nausea, headache, loss of orientation, decreased visual function may appear andlisten

Place of manifestation	characteristic sensation
cervix	Pain and dizziness, difficulty breathing, hearing and vision deteriorate, hoarseness appears, hands become numb.
Lumbar	Lower back pain - sharp or dull, trouble sweating, leg cramps, cold feet, irregular periods, erectile dysfunction.
thorax	Difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest or back, pain radiating to the heart area and occurring when bending over and breathing.

After a long time in the vertical position of the body and a sudden rise, severe dizziness may occur. Fingers, toes and the tip of the nose are often cold.

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

Syndrome with cervical osteochondrosis

A syndrome is a group that combines several clinical features. The following varieties are distinguished.

Heart

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

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

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

Vertebral

Such syndromes indicate the relationship of pathological conditions with cartilage and bone tissue bodies. Includes three main symptoms:

• painduring neck rotation;
• changes inouter spacebetween the vertebrae and their bodies;
• violationmobilityin the neck area.

These features are directly related to each other. If any symptoms are not present, then we are not talking about vertebral syndrome.

Vertebral artery

It shows the relationship between the pathological process and the arteries that feed the brain tissue. This syndrome includes the following symptoms that are directly related to blood flow dysfunction in the brain:

• nervous irritationthe end, which is indicated by migraines, severe headaches, tinnitus, numbness of limbs;
• dysfunctionblood flowin the trunk, which will be indicated by attacks of nausea and vomiting, dizziness, changes in blood pressure;
• disabilityoxygen, 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

Manifestation is based on the connection of 1 of the 8 pairs of roots that innervate the cervical spine. Usually, only one part of the body is affected.

The following symptoms will indicate a violation of conductivity:

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

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

Diagnostics

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

Next, a direct examination of the neck and back in different positions is carried out so that visible changes in posture and disc location can be determined. Painful areas and places where muscle tension is felt. But this is only an external examination, and a more detailed picture can be made only with the help of instrumental methods.

X-ray of the cervical spine

The information content of this method for the diagnosis of herniation is small.

CT scan

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

MRI

This method is the most progressive, in relation to the previous two. With it, you can make detailed conclusions about the size, location and structure of intervertebral changes.

Duplex ultrasound scanning

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

Rheoencephalography or REG

This examination aims to examine the normal blood supply and outflow of blood 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 impossible to cure cervical osteochondrosis, but with the help of some methods this process can be slowed down.

With the exacerbation of the disease, as a rule, drugs to relieve pain are prescribed, and together with them vitamins and muscle relaxants, the latter aimed at increasing the elasticity of soft bone tissue. The specialist prescribed a massage procedure, wearing a Shants collar. Electrophoresis and ultrasonic procedures are also effective.

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

• kneadmuscles - deep external impact, gripping the folds, squeezing and pressing rather strongly;
• lightvibration- knocking and shaking;
• trituration- small application of effort to perform friction to the state of muscle heating;
• stroking- soft movement without using effort;
• squeeze- Pressure and light relief.

With the help of manual therapy, you can get rid of pain of a chronic nature, as well as correct your posture. The direction is to warm the muscles, relieve tension, restore the normal function of the joints, and with a sharp impact on the pathogenic zone, the recovery of the cervical vertebrae takes place.

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 exercise is based on normalizing blood flow in the damaged area.

During exercise therapy, strong inclinations and rotation of the head should not be used. Movement is allowed where the joint is in its original position.

There are several effective exercises for cervical osteochondrosis.

First

Lie on your stomach, place your hands on the floor. Lift your head and body. 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 and bend forward while inhaling. In this case, the head should touch the chest. While exhaling, tilt the head and lean back. You need to repeat up to 15 times.

Third

In a sitting position, turn your head alternately in each direction. In this case, the movement should be smooth and shallow. If dizziness occurs, exercise must be stopped.

Exercise therapy is only allowed if there is no pathological severity. The best effect is achieved at the time of recovery.

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

Orthopedic pillow

As a rule, most of the time a person is in a state of inactivity. As a result, pain in the back began to appear. The rest of the spine can only be done at night while sleeping. Therefore, it is important to choose the right pillow.

Orthopedic items for sleeping help reduce pressure and normalize the physiological position of the spine at night.

Before choosing a pillow, you should consult your doctor. Experienced specialists will choose the most suitable option, taking into account rigidity, the presence of rollers along the edges, provided for placement under the neck.

If a person is overweight, a pillow with notches for the shoulders may be recommended.

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

1. Size. If a person is used to sleeping on his back, the optimal height is 9 cm, If on the stomach, then less.
2. Degreerigidity. Here you also need to take into account your favorite sleeping position. If most of the time you sleep on your stomach, a softer product will work; on your back, it is better to choose a hard pillow.
3. Form. To rest at night, doctors advise taking a rectangular model. For a short break, the half-month option is suitable.

The main disadvantage of orthopedic pillows is that with the wrong choice, a person will always experience discomfort.

Needle applicator

This is a device consisting of a fabric base and elastic material on which a plastic plate with spikes is attached. In addition, the kit may include an insert with a magnetic stripe.

The work of the device is based on the effect of acupuncture on the human body. The use of applicators for cervical osteochondrosis contributes to:

• removalcrampsand muscle relaxation
• cuppingpainfulback syndrome;
• normalizationblood flow;
• improvementmobilityjoints;
• recoverymetabolic processes in tissues.

The main contraindications for use:

• chronicdisease;
• pregnancy;
• oncologypathology;
• epilepsyattack;
• tendency tobleeding;
• heartlung disease and injury.

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

Diet

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

General recommendations

A properly formulated diet has its own characteristics. First of all, there are no strict restrictions on food. This menu provides the use of a variety of healthy foods. In each case, the daily energy value is calculated individually. It is important that protein, fat, carbohydrates and fiber are always present in the diet.

To avoid tissue dehydration, it is recommended to drink at least 1. 5 liters of pure water every day. In summer, the daily rate 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. 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, in the oven, by boiling.

Prohibited Products

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

From the diet you need to completely exclude:

• dried fish;
• carbonated drinks;
• oranges;
• canned food and sausages;
• cake;
• fatty soup;
• additional nutrition.

In addition, strong tea, sweet wine, spicy dishes, marinades and smoked meat are prohibited.

Complications and consequences

The pain arising from cervical osteochondrosis has not yet become a severe disease symptom. But if you do not respond to them in time and do not take any action, then there may be an irreversible process. The most dangerous disease resulting from displacement or herniation of the vertebral disc can be cardiovascular pathology.

When squeezing the arteries that pass through the spine, cerebral circulation is disrupted, and, thus, the brain experiences starvation. As a result, the function of the cerebellum and the upper part of the spinal cord is disturbed, noise appears 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 spinal curvature. Cervical osteochondrosis can provoke a violation of the normal functioning of the digestive system and genital organs.

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

Prevention

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

• sleepon medium firm mattresses and low pillows;
• visit regularlyshoweror sauna. This helps relieve tension in the muscles;
• take it every dayshowerwith hot water;
• walk moreby walking, swimming or doing yoga exercises;
• notturnon side of head sharply;
• after working forcomputerat the end of each hour, rest for five minutes, while working with your hands, making small torso bends, not forgetting to maintain your posture;
• atsedentarywork to keep your back straight;
• select specialarmchairor a comfortable chair for work.

In addition to the physical effect on the proper function of the cervical vertebrae, it is necessary to adjust the nutritional diet. To do this, you need to eat 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 every day and completely exclude alcoholic beverages and smoking. Salad dressing is recommended with olive oil.

The following foods should be included in a nutritious diet:

• rabbit meat,chickenor lean beef
• tomatoesand cucumbers, cabbage, beets, avocados, celery, spinach, lettuce, peppers, carrots, and onions;
• thincheese, cottage cheese and milk;
• fish, squid, crab and oysters;
• aspicand jelly;
• seedSun Flower, almonds and hazelnuts;
• grain, eggs and mushrooms.

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

• fatty soup;
• beans;
• beans;
• grapes;
• smoked meat;
• flour products and spicy dishes.

For preventive purposes, you can do simple physical exercises:

1. lie on topstomachand place 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 or 4 times.
2. Lie on your stomach, handsorganizealong the body, then slowly 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. Sit on the chairdisappointedhead 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. Rotatehead 4 times clockwise and counterclockwise, but if health conditions allow this to be done.

The training complex can be different, a medical worker will help you choose it.

In any case, before doing gymnastics, it is necessary to consult a specialist, and if during the exercise you feel dizzy or feel pain, then they should be stopped and consult your doctor.

Answers to common questions

What doctor treats?

At the first signs of pathological development, you need to contact a therapist who, after an initial examination, will make a referral to a neurologist (he is a person who treats problems of the nervous system), a radiologist and a specialist in tomography. A vertebrologist performs further diagnostics and prescribes treatment. The osteopath will help determine the location of the lesion.

What pillow to sleep with cervical osteochondrosis?

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

How long does the exacerbation last?

The average duration of an attack is 2-5 days. However, after this period, for another 2-3 weeks, the patient will experience discomfort in the affected area of the spine. Therefore, 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 do 2-3 procedures every day.