Cervical osteochondrosis is a progressive disease characterized by deformations and structural changes of the intervertebral disc.
Cervical osteochondrosis has become more common recently, which can be explained by the spread of a sedentary lifestyle (driving, sitting in front of a computer).
Unlike thoracic and lumbar, cervical osteochondrosis manifests itself much more frequently, which is due to the anatomy of the cervical spine. The fact is that in the neck area the vertebrae are close enough to each other, and the muscular framework is underdeveloped, which leads to displacement of the vertebrae even with small loads on the neck area and, as a result, compression. of blood vessels and nerves.
Causes of cervical osteochondrosis
Relationship: cervical osteochondrosis, dizziness, fear, tension and depression.
A no less relevant cause of manifestation and aggravation of cervical and vertebral osteochondrosis is the human mental factor: it is about frequent or constant tensions, fears, anxieties, a state of depression, which are always accompanied by internal stress thatarises.
Our spine, including the cervical section, consists of 24 vertebrae and intervertebral discs (cartilage), and in order for this entire structure to remain firm and firm, the spine is tied with many muscles and ligaments that create a kind of corset. A very important role in this design is played by the intervertebral discs, which allow the vertebrae to move relative to each other, thanks to which amortization occurs.
When these same discs or vertebrae are damaged (change in structure due to metabolic disorders), osteochondrosis occurs, which is named after the affected area: cervical, thoracic and lumbar osteochondrosis.
In cervical osteochondrosis, the nerve roots that extend from the spinal cord are pinched and the vessels are compressed, disrupting blood flow. because, within tense muscles, blood is difficult to move. Of course, the blood supply to the brain is also interrupted, as a result of which oxygen starvation occurs.
Furthermore, all these nerves that leave the spinal cord are connected to our internal organs and therefore their work is also interrupted.
In addition, the causes of cervical osteochondrosis can be:
- intervertebral disc injuries;
- weight lifting;
- wrong posture;
- hypothermia, draft;
- improperly performed procedures, eg massages and others.
- overeating, overweight: excessive stress on the spine;
- the use of spicy, salty aggravates osteochondrosis;
- scoliosis, kyphosis, congenital or acquired lordosis;
- prolonged exposure to vibrations: working with construction machinery, driving a car, etc.
- uncomfortable bed, feather beds, large pillows, therefore the neck position when sleeping is wrong;
- hereditary predisposition;
- loads on the column, not only heavy, but, for example, monotonous;
- pathology of the musculo-ligamentous apparatus;
- asymmetry of the temporomandibular joint, its injuries, chewing habits, malocclusion;
- tight and uncomfortable bra straps, tight collars;
- work with vigorous movements of the same type (especially when leaning forward halfway): sawing-splitting wood, gardening with a shovel, hoeing, washing at the table, vacuuming and the like.
Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis
The symptoms of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis are directly dependent on the objective. In this regard, a group of syndromes that accompany this disease is distinguished:
- Root syndromes.Root syndrome occurs when nerve roots in the cervical region are compressed (pinched nerve). Also called cervical radiculitis. The pain that occurs in the neck is transmitted downward and can go down to the scapula and even up the outside of the forearm to the fingers. Among the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, in some cases, there is tingling in the forearm, hand or fingers, pastiness, the effect of running goose bumps.
- Irritated reflex syndromes.In the case of reflex-reflex syndrome, symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis may include acute burning pain in the neck or occiput, which occurs when moving after a static state (with sharp turns of the head, when sneezing, After sleeping). The pain can radiate to the shoulder and chest.
- Cardiac syndrome.The symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in this syndrome largely coincide with the symptoms of angina pectoris. In this case, it is very important not to make a mistake in the diagnosis. With cardinal syndrome, the nature of the pain is paroxysmal and prolonged (up to several hours). Increased pain occurs with sudden movements caused by coughing, sneezing, and a sharp turn of the head. Often there is the appearance of tachycardia and extrasystoles against the background of a complete absence of signs of circulatory disorders.
- Vertebral artery syndrome.In this case, cervical osteochondrosis is accompanied by a symptom such as a shooting or burning headache, which most often captures the superciliary region, the back of the head, the temple, the darkness. The pain, as a rule, practically does not stop, and only in some cases it has a paroxysmal character. Increased pain occurs when moving or after prolonged stay in an uncomfortable position.
There is the possibility of hearing and visual impairments (decreased visual and auditory acuity, tinnitus, vestibular disorders, eye pain). In the context of the general weakness of the body, nausea or loss of consciousness may occur.
Summarizing the above, we can distinguish a series of more characteristic symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine:
- constant neck pain that spreads to the shoulder girdle, ears and eyes, the back of the head and does not stop even at night;
- pain in the hands, forearm, shoulder, which worsens even with a light load;
- weakening of muscle strength and decreased sensitivity of hands, hands, fingers, as well as difficulty in their movements;
- pain in the neck when turning and tilting the head;
- neck muscle tension, feeling of lying down in the morning;
- burning, numbness, tingling in the legs or arms;
- extensive headache with primary location in occiput;
- darkening of the eyes, tinnitus, numbness of the tongue, dizziness, with a sharp turn of the head - fainting,
- decreased visual acuity and hearing;
- proliferation of connective tissue in the cervical spine;
- pain in the region of the heart.
Medications for cervical osteochondrosis
Cervical osteochondrosis is a complex disease that requires long-term, systematic and gradual treatment. The therapy aims to eliminate pain and combat the inflammatory process in the affected area.
Patients are prescribed analgesics. Recently, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have become more and more popular in the treatment of degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the spine, which effectively eliminate the pain syndrome and reduce the activity of the inflammatory process.
In the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis, the appointment of chondroprotectors is indicated, drugs that slow down the destruction of cartilage tissue. Many doctors believe that the use of these drugs also promotes the regeneration of cartilage tissue.
The use of topical ointments and gels containing irritants or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is ineffective. The drug that is part of them is unlikely to reach the affected area due to the barrier of the skin, subcutaneous tissue and muscles. However, it makes sense to use these external agents, since when they are rubbed into the skin, a neck massage is performed.
To improve regenerative and metabolic processes in the affected nerve root, patients are prescribed vitamins of group B. Most often, doctors recommend patients combined vitamin preparations, which are administered intramuscularly.
Traditional methods of treating cervical osteochondrosis
Home remedies definitely cannot be ruled out: cervical osteochondrosis with its symptoms can be treated at home with essential oils, herbs, fats, roots and poisons. They are combined with alcohols, iodine and turpentine, and obtain quite effective anti-inflammatory and warming agents to use both externally and internally.
Phytotherapy of cervical osteochondrosis
Celery remedy. Grate the celery root on the finest grater, squeeze out the juice. Take celery juice for cervical osteochondrosis, symptoms and home treatment three times a day for one tablespoon before meals.
Less concentrated version of the drug: for 1 tablespoon of juice 100 ml of boiling water, leave it for a couple of hours and take a tablespoon of solution an hour before meals 4 times a day.
You can also use the root itself instead of juice: pour 3 grams of root 0. 5 liters of boiling water, leave it for a couple of hours until it cools completely and drink 20 ml before each meal.
Bay leaf remedy. In an enameled saucepan, pour 12 grams of bay leaf with 300 ml of cold water, boil for five minutes. Let it sit for three hours, drain. Throughout the day, between meals, drink the infusion in small sips. Drink the rest before going to bed. Continue to take the drug for four days, take a week break and repeat the course. For prevention, repeat the course every spring.
Herbal collection for cervical osteochondrosis. Crush and mix 100 grams of chamomile, parsley, hops and oregano, add 100 grams of nettle leaf and 200 grams of burdock root. Prepare in a thermos, pouring 1, 5 liters of boiling water. Leave for three days. Drink the strained solution in a tablespoon twice a day, in the morning and in the evening. Store in a cool dark place.
Rub
Red pepper remedy.Finely chop two red hot chili peppers, pour them into a tightly closed container and pour 200 ml of vegetable oil. Close tightly with a non-metallic lid. Leave it in a dark and warm place for five days. Rub into the affected area with gentle movements twice a day. You don't need to take a lot of funds right away as it can burn a lot. The effect of the product is heated, blood circulation is improved.
Butter-based.Mix the egg with a tablespoon of vinegar, add a tablespoon of flour and 100 grams of soft butter. Leave the product for a couple of days in a dark place, remove the film formed on the surface of the mixture and rub it into the skin in the area of cervical osteochondrosis during massage. Store the prepared mixture for no more than 3 days.
Compress
Burdock and horseradish leaves have proven to be compresses. They are scalded with boiling water, applied to the damaged area and kept for several hours, wrapped in a cotton cloth. Repeat every day 10 times. Repeat 2-4 times a year.
Therapeutic exercises for cervical osteochondrosis
These exercises will help both with existing osteochondrosis of the cervical spine and as a prophylaxis. Gymnastics for cervical osteochondrosis for preventive purposes can be done in the evenings at home, but it is better to use short breaks at work for this (this is a recommendation for those who have a sedentary job). Gymnastics with cervical osteochondrosis does not take long, but it gives a positive result and quite quickly.
- Exercise 1.Sit up straight, tilt your head back and try to reach your right shoulder with your right ear, then return to the starting position. The exercise is done slowly and smoothly, the muscles are not tense. Do five reps for each side.
- Exercise 2.Sit up straight, with your face facing forward and your chin slightly raised. Turn your head slowly and gently to the right, as much as possible. Return to the starting position and do the same turn to the left. Repeat 5 times in each direction.
- Exercise 3.Place the palm of the hand on the forehead and press the head on it, while the palm must remain in the same place, that is, resist the pressure. During head pressure, you need to tense your neck muscles. Count slowly to 5 and relax. Repeat 3 times.
- Exercise 4.The exercise is similar to Exercise 3, only the palm (or two palms) should be placed on the back of the head and it is with them to press on the palm. The tension should be maintained, counting to yourself up to 5. Repeat 3 times.
- Exercise 5.The exercise is similar to Exercise 3, but in this case, place the palm of the right hand on the right temple and press the head against the palm. The tension should be maintained, counting to yourself up to 5. Repeat 3 times. Then do the same, placing the left palm on the left temple; repeat 3 times.
- Exercise 6.Sit up straight, slightly tilt your head back and then slowly, with tension, as if overcoming resistance, lower your head down, pressing your chin against your chest. Repeat 5 times.
- Exercise 7.Sitting upright, lower your head and slowly turn your head to the right and left, 5 times in each direction. In this case, the head remains low.
Gymnastics for cervical osteochondrosis should not include rotations of the head without support for the hands, especially at those times when the neck is tense and sore.
Self-massage for cervical osteochondrosis
Self-massage never hurts, it is a key treatment at home. The main requirement is a tolerant regime. You cannot use excessive force, the procedure is performed exclusively with your fingers. You can do this all day at a minimum. During exercise, it is advisable not to bend or tilt the neck to the sides.
It is necessary to start from the upper cervical vertebra and gradually lower the massaged area. The movements should be smooth in a spiral or circular, from the center to the periphery, from top to bottom. If a muscle in the cervical area is stiff, it can be kneaded separately. Remember the symmetric loading. The time to massage the right and left parts is approximately the same. It will not be possible to completely cure the disease with self-massage, but it is quite possible to slow down the disease and speed up recovery.
Nutrition for cervical osteochondrosis
With osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, doctors recommend eating in small portions at least 5 times a day. Eat cooked or steamed foods. Drink at least 1. 5 liters of water a day. Season salads with olive oil. Avoid cigarettes and alcoholic beverages.
Include the following products in the menu:
- lean meat: beef, rabbit, chicken;
- vegetables and fruits: cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, onions, peppers, beets, cabbage, broccoli, celery, aubergine, avocado, spinach, watercress;
- dairy products: cheese, cottage cheese, milk;
- shellfish: fish, lobster, oysters, crabs;
- gelatin dishes: gelatin, jellied meat, fish asp;
- nuts and seeds: almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds;
- mushrooms, eggs, cereals.
Try to eat less sugar, grapes, broths. Eliminate salty and smoked foods, flour products, spicy seasonings from the diet.
Prevention of cervical osteochondrosis
As usual, proper prophylaxis will help prevent osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, but of course all physical exercises must be done regularly, otherwise "regular" exercises will have little benefit.
It remains to remember simple rules:
- playing sports regularly, especially swimming, water aerobics, gymnastics for stretching and flexibility of the vertebrae is also suitable for preventing osteochondrosis, which can be practiced at home;
- Eat more foods high in calcium and magnesium. These are fish, peas, legumes, nuts, cheese, herbs, but it is better to refrain from sugar, flour, smoked, spicy;
- choose a good orthopedic mattress and pillow that is ideal for your neck, supporting your head in the correct anatomical position during sleep (yes, your favorite large down pillows won't go away with spinal problems).
- during sedentary work, at least a couple of times a day, perform a special set of medical gymnastics exercises.