Cervical osteochondrosis is a progressive disease characterized by deformation and structural changes of the intervertebral disc.
Cervical osteochondrosis has recently become more common, 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 often, 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 poorly developed, which leads to displacement of the vertebrae even with small loads on the neck area and, as a result, to the compression of blood vessels and nerves.
Causes of cervical osteochondrosis
Relationship - cervical osteochondrosis, dizziness, fears, tension and depression.
The human mental factor is not a less relevant cause of manifestation and aggravation of cervical and spinal osteochondrosis - it is frequent or constant stresses, fears, anxieties, a state of depression, which arealways accompanied by internal stress.
Our spine, including the cervical section, consists of 24 vertebrae and intervertebral discs (cartilage), and in order for all of this structure to be maintained and strong, the spine is linked with many muscles and ligaments that create asort 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, due to which damping occurs.
When these same discs or vertebrae are damaged (change in structure due to metabolic disturbances), osteochondrosis occurs, which is named after the affected area: cervical, thoracic and lumbar osteochondrosis.
In cervical osteochondrosis, the roots of the nerves from the spinal cord are pinched and the vessels are squeezed, disrupting blood flow. because, inside tight muscles, the blood is difficult to move. Of course, the blood supply to the brain is also disrupted, which leads to oxygen starvation.
In addition, all these nerves coming out of the spinal cord are connected to our internal organs and as a result their work is also disturbed.
Cervical osteochondrosis can also be caused by:
- lesions of the intervertebral discs;
- weightlifting;
- incorrect posture;
- hypothermia, draft;
- improperly performed procedures, such as massages and the like.
- overeating, overweight - excessive stress on the spine;
- the use of spices, salty aggravates osteochondrosis;
- congenital or acquired scoliosis, kyphosis, lordosis;
- long-term exposure to vibration - working with construction machinery, driving a car, etc.
- uncomfortable bed, feather beds, large pillows, therefore, the position of the neck during sleep is wrong;
- hereditary predisposition;
- load on the spine, not only strong, but, for example, monotonous;
- pathology of the musculo-ligamentous system;
- asymmetry of the temporomandibular joint, its injuries, chewing habits, malocclusion;
- tight uncomfortable straps, tight collars;
- work with intense movements of the same type (especially when leaning half forward): sawing-splitting wood, gardening with a shovel, with a hoe, washing on the board, vacuuming, etc. .
Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis
Symptoms of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis depend directly on the target. In this regard, a group of syndromes accompanying this disease are distinguished:
- Root syndromes.Radicular syndrome occurs when the nerve roots in the cervical region are compressed (pinched nerve). It is also called cervical radiculitis. The pain that occurs in the neck is transmitted downwards and can extend to the scapula and even the outer part of the forearm to the fingers. Among the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, in some cases, there is tingling of the forearm, hand or fingers, grazing, the effect of goosebumps.
- Irritated reflex syndromes.With reflex-reflex syndrome, symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis may include a sharp burn in the neck or occiput, which occurs during movement after a static state (with sharp turns in thehead, when sneezing, after sleep). The pain can radiate to the shoulder and chest.
- Heart 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 throbbing or burning headache, which most often captures the eyebrow region, back of the head, temple, l'darkness. Pain, as a rule, practically does not stop, and only in some cases has a paroxysmal character. Increased pain occurs when moving or after staying in an awkward position for a long time.
There is a possibility of hearing and visual disturbances (reduced hearing and visual acuity, tinnitus, vestibular disturbances, pain in the eyes). Against the background of a general weakness of the body, nausea or loss of consciousness is possible.
To summarize the above, we can distinguish a number of the most characteristic symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine:
- constant neck pain extending to shoulder girdle, ears and eyes, back of head and does not stop even at night;
- pain in hands, forearm, shoulder, worse even with light load;
- weakened muscle strength and decreased sensitivity of the hands, hands, fingers, as well as difficulty in their movements;
- pain in the neck when turning and tilting the head;
- tightness of the neck muscles, sensation of lying down in the morning;
- burning, numbness, tingling in the legs or arms;
- extensive headache with primary localization in the occiput;
- darkening of the eyes, tinnitus, numbness of the tongue, dizziness, with sudden head turning - fainting,
- decreased visual acuity and hearing;
- proliferation of connective tissue in the cervical spine;
- pain in the region of the heart.
Drugs for cervical osteochondrosis
Cervical osteochondrosis is a complex disease that requires long-term, systematic and progressive treatment. Therapy is aimed at eliminating pain and combating the inflammatory process in the affected area.
Pain relievers are prescribed to patients. Recently, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which effectively eliminate the pain syndrome and help reduce the activity of the inflammatory process, have become increasingly popular in the treatment of degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the spine.
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 nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is ineffective. The drug substance that is part of their composition is unlikely to reach the affected area due to the skin barrier, subcutaneous tissue and muscles. Nevertheless, there is a sense in using these external agents, because when they are rubbed on the skin, a neck massage is performed.
To improve the regenerative and metabolic processes of the affected nerve root, patients are prescribed vitamins of group B. Very often, doctors recommend combined vitamin preparations to patients, which are administered intramuscularly.
Traditional methods of treating cervical osteochondrosis
Folk remedies certainly cannot be reversed - 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 get anti-inflammatory and warming agents that are quite effective for both external and internal use.
Phytotherapy for cervical osteochondrosis
Celery remedy. Grate the celeriac on the finest grater, squeeze out the juice. Take celery juice for cervical osteochondrosis, symptoms and treatment at home three times a day for a tablespoon before meals.
Less concentrated version of the drug - for 1 tablespoon of juice 100 ml of boiling water, let stand for a few hours and take a tablespoon of solution one hour before meals 4 times a day.
You can also use the root itself instead of the juice - pour 3 grams of the root into 0. 5 liters of boiling water, let stand for a few hours until it cools completely and drink 20 ml beforeevery meal.
Bay leaf remedy. In an enamel saucepan pour 12 grams of bay leaf with 300 ml of cold water, boil for five minutes. Leave to infuse 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 break for a week and repeat the course. For prevention, repeat the course every spring.
Cervical osteochondrosis herbal collection. Grind and mix 100 grams of chamomile, parsley, hops and oregano, add 100 grams of nettle leaf and 200 grams of burdock root. Infuse in a thermos, pouring 1. 5 liters of boiling water. Leave for three days. Drink the filtered solution in a tablespoon twice a day - in the morning and in the evening. Store in a cool, dark place.
Friction
Red chilli remedy.Finely chop two hot red peppers, pour them into a tightly closed container and add 200 ml of vegetable oil. Close tightly with a non-metallic lid. Leave in a dark, warm place for five days. Rub the affected area with gentle movements twice a day. It is not necessary to take a lot of funds at once, as it can burn a lot. The effect of the product warms up, blood circulation is improved.
Based on butter.Mix the egg with a tablespoon of vinegar, add a tablespoon of flour and 100 grams of softened butter. Leave the product for a few 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 up to 3 days.
Compresses
Burdock and horseradish leaves have proven themselves as 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 to combat existing osteochondrosis of the cervical spine and as a prophylactic. Gymnastics for cervical osteochondrosis for preventive purposes can be performed in the evening at home, but it is better to use short breaks from work for this (this is a recommendation for those who have sedentary work). Gymnastics with cervical osteochondrosis does not take much time, 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 performed slowly and smoothly, the muscles are not strained. Do five repetitions for each side.
- Exercise 2.Sit up straight with your face facing forward, chin slightly raised. Slowly and gently turn your head to the right - as much as possible. Return to the starting position and make the same turn to the left. Repeat 5 times in each direction.
- Exercise 3.Put your palm on your forehead and rest your head on it, while the palm should remain in the same place, that is to say resist the pressure. While pressing with your head, you need to strain the muscles of the neck. Slowly count to 5 for yourself and relax. Repeat 3 times.
- Exercise 4.The exercise is similar to exercise 3, only the palm (or two palms) should be placed at the back of the head and it is with them that youpress the palm. Tension should be maintained, counting up to 5. Repeat 3 times.
- Exercise 5.The exercise is similar to exercise 3, but in this case, place your right palm on the right temple and rest your head against the palm. Tension should be maintained, counting 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, tilt your head slightly back and then slowly, with tension, as if overcoming resistance, lower your head, resting your chin against your chest. Repeat 5 times.
- Exercise 7.Sit up straight, lower your head, and slowly turn your head to the right and left - 5 times in each direction. In this case, the head remains lowered.
Gymnastics for cervical osteochondrosis should not include head rotations without hand support, especially in times when the neck is strained and sore.
Self-massage for cervical osteochondrosis
Self-massage never hurts, it's a key treatment at home. The main requirement is a thrifty diet. You can not use excessive force, the procedure is carried out exclusively with your fingers. You can do this all day at least. While exercising, 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, up and down. If a muscle in the cervical region is stiff, it can be kneaded separately. Remember the symmetrical load. The massage time of the right and left parts is approximately equal. 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 healing.
Nutrition for cervical osteochondrosis
In case of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, doctors advise eating in small portions at least 5 times a day. Eat cooked or steamed meals. Drink at least 1. 5 liters of water per day. Season salads with olive oil. Avoid cigarettes and alcoholic drinks.
Include the following products in the menu:
- lean meat: beef, rabbit, chicken;
- vegetables and fruits: cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, onions, peppers, beets, cabbage, broccoli, celery, eggplant, avocado, spinach, watercress;
- dairy products: cheese, cottage cheese, milk;
- seafood: fish, lobsters, oysters, crabs;
- gelatin dishes: jelly, jelly meat, fish aspic;
- nuts and seeds: almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds;
- mushrooms, eggs, cereals.
Try to eat less sugar, grapes, broths. Eliminate salty and smoked foods, flour products, hot spices from the diet.
Prevention of cervical osteochondrosis
As usual, proper prophylaxis will help to avoid osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, but, of course, all physical exercise should be done regularly, otherwise “periodic” exercises will hardly benefit.
There are some simple rules to remember:
- regularly does sports, 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 that are high in calcium and magnesium. These are fish, peas, legumes, nuts, cheese, herbs, but it is better to refrain from sugar, flour, smoked and spicy foods;
- choose a good orthopedic mattress and a perfect neck pillow, supporting the head in the correct anatomical position while sleeping (yes, your favorite huge down pillows won't go away with spinal problems! ).
- during sedentary work, at least twice a day, perform a special series of medical gymnastic exercises.