cervical osteochondrosis

For us, osteochondrosis in the usual sense is a disease of the spine that is characterized by a reduction in the height of the intervertebral discs. But it's a natural process of the body, related to its aging and retribution for bipedal movement. This change can be found in most people in the 25-40 age group and above.

The structure of the cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae, C1-C7, connected by the elastic tissue of the intervertebral disc. The arch has seven interconnected protrusions through which blood vessels and nerve endings pass. With disease, the discs lose their 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 an X-ray, this has no important clinical significance.

In general, the pathological prognosis is favorable, with the vast majority recovering, but may be delayed by weeks or months.

Incidence Statistics

Most people susceptible to osteochondrosis are adults. On average, only 15% of cases occurred in patients under the age of 30. For people aged 30 to 49, cervical spine problems occur in 65% of cases. Complaints about the disease have grown over the years due to the sedentary lifestyle of many workers.

How is it going	female age	male age
no progress	58	65
Slow progress	46	46
rapid progress	49	Fifty

Disease severity and dynamic ratios were approximately the same (~50/50) in males and females. Age is also almost the same. The difference was only for the group where the disease did not progress - it's worth noting that in this case, the average age for men was 7 years.

	city dweller	villagers	mental work	physical activity
no progress	41	56	55	55
Slow progress	31	31	29	28
rapid progress	28	fourteen	fifteen	17

It is also worth noting that fast-acting osteochondrosis is more common among urban residents than among rural residents.

cause of disease

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

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

It presents with pain, general weakness, numbness in the arms and neck, and sometimes ringing in the ears.

To determine the extent of damage to cartilage tissue and the extent to which blood vessels and nerves are involved in the process, X-rays, CT, MRI, and other studies are performed.

Medical and physical therapy, lifestyle modification.

List of causes of intervertebral disc dystrophy:

• Physical inactivity or a sedentary lifestyle;
• Improper metabolism;
• salt deposits;
• an unbalanced diet;
• sedentary work, including driving or working at a computer;
• obesity;
• violate posture;
• Depression, stress, overwork;
• chronic viral diseases;
• The athlete suddenly stops training or moves incorrectly during physical exertion;
• Injuried;
• genetic susceptibility;
• childbirth;
• Violation of the formation of bone tissue in the spine;
• low temperature;
• weightlifting;
• flatfoot.

This list can be supplemented, depending entirely on the individual's developmental characteristics, lifestyle and the presence of concomitant diseases.

Degree of development of disc disease

The pathology develops gradually, with a total of 4 degrees:

1 degree

There are few signs of the disease, and pain in the neck area is negligible. They intensify and cause discomfort when you turn your head. When examined by a doctor, there is slight muscle tension in the neck collar area.

2 degrees

The pain in this condition is stronger than described above. They can succumb to the arm or shoulder area. This manifestation is caused by reduced disc height and damaged nerve endings.

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

3 degrees

The pain becomes more intense and there is numbness in the limbs and weakness of the muscles in the hands, which means the formation of a herniation. This degree of illness is accompanied by frequent dizziness and general weakness.

4 degrees

This is the most dangerous situation for the body because the disc is completely destroyed and the bone tissue is replaced by elasticity. At the same time, dizziness became frequent, noises appeared in the back of the head and ears, and motor coordination was disturbed.

This is due to damage to the arteries supplying the cerebellum and the back of the head. In the fourth stage of the disease, neck pain is significantly reduced due to the regeneration of cartilage tissue, but nerve endings are squeezed.

Pain syndromes are not always associated with the presence of a herniated spine, hernias, and more commonly nonspecific back pain.

symptom

Pain can manifest in various parts of the body, so special tests should be done. For example, pain can occur in the eye area, in the nerves of the teeth, or in the ear. In some cases, they can spread to the shoulders, arms, shoulder blades, and lower back.

Myocardial pains are not excluded, they are easily confused with heart disease. If you're on medications that help relieve pain from heart failure, they won't help.

Dizziness, head noise, nausea, headache, loss ofOrientation, vision loss and other symptoms. appear and hear.

Expressively	characteristic feeling
cervical spine	Headache, dizziness, difficulty breathing, decreased hearing and vision, hoarseness, numbness in hands.
lumbar spine	Low back pain - sharp or dull pain, sweating problems, leg cramps, cold feet, irregular menstruation, erectile dysfunction.
thoracic	Difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest or back, pain radiating to the heart area and occurring when bending over and breathing.

Severe dizziness may occur after prolonged and sharp elevation of the body in an upright position. The fingers, toes, and tip of the nose are usually cold.

Each case is individualized and should be examined before prescribing medication.

cervical osteochondrosis syndrome

Syndromes are a group that combines various clinical features. Distinguish the following varieties.

heart

Symptoms are similar to pictures showing an invasion of the heart, as well as conditions before a heart attack. This category includes:

• burning and pain in the chest;
• increased fatigue;
• Difficulty breathing;
• general weakness;
• Heartbeat is frequent.

To differentiate cervical osteochondrosis from heart disease, functional tests and electrocardiograms were used.

spine

This syndrome indicates the relationship of the pathological condition to the cartilage and bony organoids. There are three main symptoms:

• painduring neck rotation;
• change inspacebetween the vertebrae and the body;
• violationfluidityin the neck area.

These features are directly related to each other. If there are no symptoms, then we are not talking about vertebral body syndrome.

vertebral artery

It shows the relationship between the pathological process and the arteries that supply blood to the brain tissue. The syndrome includes the following symptoms directly related to cerebral blood flow dysfunction:

• nerve stimulationending, manifested as migraine, severe headache, tinnitus, numbness of limbs;
• disfunctionblood flowIn the trunk, this will manifest as episodes of nausea and vomiting, dizziness, changes in blood pressure;
• defectoxygen, manifested as lethargy, depression, fainting, and decreased performance.

Not only does cervical osteochondrosis contribute to the development of this syndrome, but other pathological processes also contribute to the development of this syndrome.

root

The representation is based on the connection of 1 of the 8 pairs of roots that innervate 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, collarbone pain;
• fifth- Difficulty moving the shoulder joint;
• sixth- forearm and shoulder blade discomfort;
• seventh- Numbness of the middle and index fingers of the upper extremities;
• eighth- Violation of the mobility of the little and ring fingers on the hand.

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

diagnosis

In order to diagnose the presence of the disease, it is first necessary to analyze the patient's lifestyle, including his occupational activities. Summarize information about symptoms. In addition, to determine factors of genetic susceptibility, the presence of similar pathologies among family members was investigated.

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

cervical spine x-ray

This method is less informative for the diagnosis of hernia.

CT scan

This is a more advanced method of detecting changes in the vertebrae, but it can be difficult to determine the size and presence of the hernia, and where the spinal cord is being compressed.

NMR

Compared to the first two methods, this method is state-of-the-art. With it, you can make detailed conclusions about the size, location and structure of intervertebral changes.

Ultrasound duplex scan

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

Brain rheogram or REG

This test is designed to study the normal blood supply and outflow to the brain. Currently, it is rarely regulated due to the low information content.

The above diagnostic methods can be used alone or in combination to determine the cause.

treat

There is absolutely no way to cure cervical osteochondrosis, but there are ways to slow the process.

As the disease progresses, pain-relieving medications are often prescribed, along with vitamins and muscle relaxants, the latter designed to increase the elasticity of cartilage tissue. Experts prescribe massage procedures and wear Shants collars. Electrophoresis and ultrasound procedures are also effective.

You can massage yourself, but you must consult a specialist. The main methods are:

• kneadMuscles - deep external shocks, grabbing folds, relatively strong squeezing and squeezing;
• Lightvibration- tapping and shaking;
• grind- apply a little friction while the muscles are warming up;
• stroking- The movements are gentle and effortless;
• extrusion- Gently press 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 function of the joints, and have a noticeable effect on the diseased area, thereby restoring the cervical spine.

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

exercise therapy at home

Correctly performed therapeutic exercises have the most positive effects. The main principle of exercise is to normalize blood flow in the damaged area.

Strong head tilts and rotations should not be used during exercise therapy. Movement that allows the joint to be in its original position.

There are many effective exercises for osteochondrosis in the cervical region.

first

Lie on the ground with 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. Repeat no more than 3 times.

second

Sit down and bend forward as you inhale. In this case, the head should touch the chest. As you exhale, tilt your head back and forth. You need to repeat up to 15 times.

third

In a seated position, rotate your head alternately in each direction. In this case, the action should be smooth and shallow. If dizziness occurs, you must stop exercising.

Exercise therapy is permitted only in the absence of pathological deterioration. Best results are achieved during recovery.

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

Orthopedic pillow

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

Sleep orthotics help reduce stress and normalize the physiological position of the spine at night.

You should consult your doctor before choosing a pillow. An experienced specialist will choose the most suitable option, taking into account stiffness, the presence of rollers along the edges for placement under the neck.

If a person is overweight, a pillow with a shoulder gap is recommended.

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

1. scale. If a person is used to sleeping on the back, the optimal height is 9 cm, if sleeping on the stomach, it is even less.
2. degreerigidity. Here you also need to take into account your favorite sleeping position. If you sleep on your stomach most of the time, a soft product is fine; on your back, a firm pillow is best.
3. sheet. At night when resting, the doctor recommends taking the oblong model. For short breaks, the half-moon option is suitable.

The main disadvantage of orthopedic pillows is that if the wrong choice is made, a person will experience constant discomfort.

Needle applicator

This is a device consisting of a fabric base and an elastic material to which a pegd plastic plate is fastened. Additionally, the kit may include inserts with magnetic strips.

The work of the device is based on the effects of acupuncture on the human body. Using an applicator for cervical osteochondrosis can help:

• eliminatespasmsand muscle relaxation
• cuppingpainback syndrome;
• normalizationblood circulation;
• Improvefluidityjoint;
• RevitalizeMetabolic processes in tissues.

Main contraindications:

• chronicdisease;
• Pregnant;
• Oncologypathology;
• epilepsyattack;
• tendencybleeding;
• heartDisease and lung damage.

The course of treatment lasts 14-21 days according to all prescriptions of the attending physician. Use the device only in well-ventilated areas.

diet

Adherence to proper nutrition is an important part of treating cervical osteochondrosis.

General advice

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

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

Also, salt intake should be reduced. Its excess in the body can lead to the appearance of edema and an additional burden on the vascular system. Do not exceed 5 grams of this product per day.

It is also recommended to reduce starch and sugar consumption.

All dishes are cooked in the oven by boiling.

Contraband

Cervical osteochondrosis patients will have to give up a lot of coffee, pastries and sweets.

From the diet you need to completely exclude:

• dried fish;
• Carbonated drinks;
• Pickle;
• canned food and sausages;
• cake;
• fat broth;
• nutritional supplements.

Also, strong tea, sweet grapes, spicy dishes, marinades and bacon are banned.

Complications and consequences

Pain from cervical osteochondrosis is not yet a serious symptom of the disease. But if you don't respond to them in time and take no action, there may be an irreversible process later. Probably the most dangerous disease caused by a displaced or herniated disc is cardiovascular disease.

When the arteries that pass through the spine are squeezed, brain circulation is disrupted, so the brain becomes hungry. As a result, the functions of the cerebellum and the upper part of the spinal cord are disturbed, and noises appear in the back of the head.

Impaired vision and hearing loss due to poor blood supply. Comorbidities such as thyroid disease, migraines, and curvature of the spine begin to appear. Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine can cause violations of the normal functioning of the digestive system and reproductive organs.

Studying the pathogenesis of the disease, experts have found that its origins are often caused by an unhealthy lifestyle, poor nutrition, and increased stress and physical stress. Therefore, it is advisable to contact your doctor in case of mild symptoms to avoid developing more serious pathology.

prevention

Precautions to prevent such diseases should vary. Expert advice:

• sleepon medium firm mattresses and low pillows;
• regular visitbathor sauna. This helps relieve muscle tension;
• Take it dailytake a showeruse hot water;
• walk moreon foot, swimming or doing yoga exercises;
• noturnsharp on the sides of the head;
• after get off workcomputerAt the end of each hour, take a five-minute break while working with your hands to slightly bend your torso, not forgetting to maintain your posture;
• existsedentarytry to keep your back straight;
• special selectionarmchairOr a chair suitable for work.

In addition to the impact of the body on the normal function of the cervical spine, it is also necessary to adjust the nutritional diet. To do this, you need to eat a little, but often - at least 5 times a day.

The steamer ensures good digestion without negatively affecting cartilage tissue. Drink at least one and a half liters of clean water a day, and completely eliminate alcoholic beverages and smoking. Dressing salads with olive oil is recommended.

A nutritious diet should include the following foods:

• rabbit,chickenor lean beef
• tomatoand cucumbers, cabbage, beets, avocado, celery, spinach, lettuce, peppers, carrots and onions;
• tiltcheese, cottage cheese and milk;
• fish, squid, crab and oysters;
• aspicand jelly;
• seedsunflower, almonds and hazelnuts;
• cereals, eggs and mushrooms.

It is recommended to exclude or limit from the diet:

• fat soup;
• beans;
• beans;
• Grape;
• bacon;
• Pasta and spicy dishes.

For preventive purposes, you can do simple physical exercises:

1. lie downStomachPut your hands on the floor. Then slowly and carefully raise your head and hold this position for one minute. After returning to the starting position. So repeat 3 to 4 times.
2. lying down, handsarrangeAlong the body, then gently turn the head to the right. Return to the starting position while turning your head to the left. Repeat 5 times on both sides.
3. sit on the chairbetrayuntil the chin touches the body. Do this exercise while exhaling. Then take the starting position. After inhaling air from your lungs, tilt your head back. Repeat the exercise - 10 times.
4. rotateRotate 4 times clockwise and counterclockwise, but if your health allows it.

Combinations of exercises may vary, and your healthcare provider will help you choose them.

In any case, before doing gymnastics, it is necessary to consult a specialist, and if you feel dizzy or sore during exercise, you should stop exercising and consult a doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What doctor treats?

At the first signs of pathological development, you need to contact a therapist, who, after an initial examination, will refer you to a neurologist (who treats problems with the nervous system), a radiologist and specialist tomography. A chiropractor makes a follow-up diagnosis and prescribes treatment. An osteopath will help determine the location of the lesion.

What pillow do cervical spondylosis patients sleep on?

Experts recommend sleeping with only orthopedic pillows. They must meet the following requirements: elastic, moderately dense, rectangular, and small.

How long does the deterioration last?

The duration of an attack averaged 2-5 days. However, after this time, for another 2-3 weeks, the patient will experience discomfort in the affected area of the spinal area. Therefore, the exacerbation phase can last from days to months.

How long have you been lying on the needle?

For cervical osteochondrosis, a session of no more than 7 minutes. At the same time, every 60 seconds you need to slightly change the position of your head and back. 2-3 procedures are required per day.