Chronic osteochondrosis of the cervical spine treatment. Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine: symptoms and methods of treatment. Who is not allowed to do medical gymnastics

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine can cause more intense clinical signs than degenerative changes of this kind in other parts of the spinal column. This is due to the fact that impaired blood circulation in this area leads to oxygen starvation of the brain. Symptoms can vary depending on the extent of the pathological process.

For home treatment, with the permission of a specialist, you can resort to the use of medications aimed at relieving inflammation and pain. Therapeutic exercises and massage are effective, but they also have their limitations. Folk remedies can be used to complement these conservative measures.

Causes

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine can occur as a result of various factors. The reasons are the same for both men and women:

improper posture;
scoliosis;
overweight;
passive lifestyle;
spinal injury;
excessive physical activity;
metabolic disease;
hereditary predisposition;
nervous shocks, frequent stress;
constant tension of the back muscles in the cervical region.

The mechanics of osteochondrosis is associated with increased loads on this part of the spine, compensating them with spasm of the neck muscles. As a result, blood circulation in this zone is disrupted, degenerative-dystrophic changes occur in the cervical spine.

Symptoms

The symptomatology of the disease depends on the stage of the pathological processes. In total, there are 4 degrees of development of cervical osteochondrosis:

Stage	Typical symptoms
The first	It appears insignificantly. Usually there is a slight tension of the muscle ligaments and mild pain in the area of nerve nodules.
The second	Protrusion of the discs occurs, as a result of which the intervertebral fissures decrease and the fibrous rings begin to gradually collapse. Pain syndromes may worsen due to pinching of nerve endings
The third	Symptoms are significantly aggravated: the pain becomes permanent, begins to radiate to the shoulder and upper limbs. On palpation of the affected area, the discomfort increases sharply, feelings of numbness and tingling of the fingers may occur, since hernias are formed. Neck mobility is impaired, joints become stiff
Fourth	It is characterized by complete destruction of the intervertebral disc, which leads to pinching of the connective tissue. As a result of such changes, a person develops symptoms such as: dizziness; lack of coordination; noise in ears

The symptomatology of cervical osteochondrosis differs from the disease affecting other parts of the spine. This is due to the location in this section of the vertebrae much closer to each other. The relatively small height of the intervertebral discs leads to the fact that clinical signs are acutely manifested even with minor pathological changes in their structure. Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine very often occurs with compression of the nerve roots and spinal cord.

Symptoms in this case may vary depending on which vertebrae are subject to degenerative-dystrophic changes. Usually the main symptom is neck pain, which is transmitted to various areas of the body: sternum, arms, chin, etc. When turning the head, a characteristic crunch may occur. Pinched nerves and blood vessels can numb the tongue and fingertips. Pain syndrome can vary:

Syndrome	Description
Radicular	It is caused by a pinched nerve. The pain is of a descending, sharp character. It extends to the shoulder, forearm and fingertips. With radicular syndrome, a feeling of creeping and tingling is possible. Another characteristic sign is a decrease in the elasticity, firmness of the skin, the appearance of slight puffiness and paleness.
Vertebral artery	It occurs when the vertebral artery is squeezed. The pain is throbbing or burning in nature, affecting the brow region, temple, occiput and the dark of the head. It is usually constant, but it can also be paroxysmal. The discomfort increases after prolonged movement or being in an uncomfortable position. With the weakening of the body, the symptoms can expand with manifestations of nausea and loss of consciousness. If blood flow to the brain is impaired, symptoms such as: decreased hearing acuity; noise in ears; lack of coordination; loss of visual acuity; Pain in the eyes
Cervical migraine	It is provoked by irritation of the sympathetic nodes, due to which disorders occurring in the brain are manifested. These include pathologies of vascular reactivity and blood circulation. This leads to the following symptoms: tinnitus; tachycardia; congestion in the ears; mild head pain that resembles a noise
Hypertensive	It is characterized by increased intracranial pressure. In hypertensive syndrome, the headache has a bursting character, it can be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Exacerbation of the disease leads to an increase in body temperature

Treatment

It will not be possible to completely cure osteochondrosis and permanently get rid of its manifestations, but the symptoms can be eliminated. With osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, you can use conservative methods aimed at reducing pain syndromes, dysfunctions of the spinal roots and prevention of complications of the degenerative process in the intervertebral discs.

To do this, use:

medicines;
massage;
Exercise therapy (physiotherapy exercises);
folk remedies.

It is impossible to self-medicate for spinal pathology. All therapeutic measures and methods used must be discussed with a specialist, applied at home with his approval. In the absence of effectiveness from conservative methods (if it is not possible to get rid of the pain), you should consult a doctor, since surgical intervention may be required.

Medicines

With cervical osteochondrosis, analgesics are used to relieve pain. They can be taken as tablets and capsules. However, long-term treatment with analgesics irritates the lining of the digestive tract, so they should not be taken frequently. The most popular and effective drugs from this group are Piroxicam and Diclofenac.

To relieve inflammatory processes, steroid, hormonal drugs are used. If analgesics do not affect the pathological process itself, these drugs relieve pain. Usually, topical agents are used in the form of ointments or tablets based on hydrocortisone, dexamethasone and prednisolone.

Chondroprotectors are recommended for the restoration of intervertebral discs. They contain substances that are substitutes for the components of cartilage tissue - hyaluronic acid and chondroitin. However, the effectiveness of these groups of drugs is possible only with prolonged use.

Chondroprotectors

Muscle relaxants are used to relax the muscle structure. They help to further reduce pain. They are used as injections. For the treatment of osteochondrosis, drugs containing glycerol and benzimidazole are most effective.

Vitamins are necessary to improve the conduction of nerve fibers and the condition of the peripheral nervous system. Water-soluble vitamins B1, B6, B12 and fat-soluble vitamins A, C, D are used.

The most convenient form of medication for the treatment of osteochondrosis at home is ointments and gels. There are various types of external use: warming, anti-inflammatory, pain relievers. The most popular drugs are Fastum-gel, Nurofen, Voltaren Emulgel.

Massage

With cervical osteochondrosis, massage should be performed carefully, without excessive force loads. Improper manual therapy can lead to complications. When massaging, you need to pay attention to the cervical region, upper back and neck area.

1. Stroking - surface effects on the skin. Performed with the hands or fingertips, from the head to the upper third of the mid-back. Zigzag strokes can be used from the base of the neck.
2. Squeezing - the impact on the deep layers of the skin with the fingers (thumb and forefinger) across the neck. This technique is used for tissues located far from the vertebrae.
3. Rubbing - the development of the collar zone in order to warm up the skin and increase blood flow. Should be applied with extreme caution, without affecting the spinous processes of the vertebrae. Rubbing can be replaced with movements resembling sawing or circular stroking.
4. Kneading - impact on deep tissue. They have limited use, mainly in the area remote from the cervical region - the upper back.

The patient can massage himself - in a sitting position. To do this, he can use such techniques as stroking, circular rubbing in the neck and shoulders. It is recommended to combine self-massage with rubbing in ointments designed to increase blood flow and relieve pain.

Applicator Kuznetsov

Manual therapy can be carried out passively using Kuznetsov's applicator, which is a special device with plastic spikes that act on acupuncture points in the cervical region. Acupressure massage is useful in that it stimulates the skin receptors that are responsible for the physiological processes in the body. In certain cases, the applicator can help to permanently and effectively reduce pain syndrome, normalize blood circulation and restore the patient's working capacity.

However, there are certain contraindications to the use of a medical device. It cannot be used for infectious, skin, tumor and vascular diseases. Despite the simplicity of the device, it is recommended to first consult with a doctor about the possibility of its use. If, during the treatment with the applicator, unpleasant sensations arise, the state of health worsens, then it should be abandoned.

For effective prevention, you can use special orthopedic sleep pillows. In case of pathology of the intervertebral discs in the cervical spine, finding the head in an uncomfortable position for an 8-hour rest will contribute to the development of the disease.

The advantage of an orthopedic product is that it is a means not only for prevention, but also for treatment - this is the so-called position therapy. With the correct selection of a pillow for sleeping, pain in the neck area will significantly decrease; you will not need to resort to dangerous self-massage using intense movements.

Exercise therapy

Physiotherapy is one of the most effective methods of conservative therapy. However, it must be carried out in compliance with certain rules. It is advisable that the set of exercises was established by a specialist, and the first lessons were held under his control.

clothes should not hinder movement;
exercise should be done in a well-ventilated area;
classes are recommended to be carried out no earlier than half an hour after eating;
within a week, it is necessary to repeat up to 4 workouts;
all movements should be performed smoothly, since quick action can provoke a complication;
it is necessary to control the pulse;
if soreness occurs during exercise, you need to replace them with stretching and relaxing actions;
the intensity of classes and loads must be increased gradually;
It is advisable to alternate exercises of physiotherapy exercises with gymnastics for proper breathing.

A simple exercise for proper breathing

Exercise therapy for cervical osteochondrosis is not performed in the following cases:

1. The period of exacerbation of the disease, when pain is pronounced both during movement and at rest.
2. Dizziness occurs due to impaired blood circulation, provoked by instability of the vertebrae.
3. There are acute diseases with signs of inflammation.
4. Cancer diagnosed at any stage.
5. Impaired blood clotting, that is, there is a risk of thrombosis or there is a tendency to bleeding.
6. Poisoning.
7. There are cardiovascular diseases in the stage of decompensation and arterial hypertension.
8. Diagnosed with high myopia with concomitant pathology from the fundus.

Initial position	A set of exercises
Standing on your feet	1. Neck circumference. Hands should be used as collar brace. When grasping the neck, the thumbs should be located in the lower part of the jaw, the rest - behind the back of the head. In this position, you need to tilt the head left and right, lingering in a tilted state for 2 seconds. After 8-10 repetitions, the girth is stopped and the exercise is performed again. 2. Squats with support on hands. You need to rest your palms on the tabletop, standing with your back to the table. It is necessary to tilt your head back slightly and stretch your body upward, lingering at the maximum mark for 2 seconds, then sit down without letting go of your hands and tilting your head forward. The squat level should be comfortable. 3. Book on the head. Place the hardcover edition on top of your head so that it does not slide out. In this state, you need to hold out for 3-4 minutes. If there is a feeling of discomfort, then the time is shortened. This exercise is designed to return the vertebrae to a physiologically correct position. 4. Flexion of the neck with resistance. You should put your palm on your forehead and put pressure on it from the side of your hand. At this time, the head should maintain its position for 20 seconds, after which it is thrown back, and a second palm is placed under the back of the head. Then you need to simultaneously press with both hands, creating tension for 5 seconds. This exercise is used to relieve spasms and stretch muscles. 5. Extension of the neck with head resistance. The exercise is similar to the previous one. In this case, the palm is first placed on the back of the head and presses on it for 20 seconds without changing the position of the head, after which it bends down, the second palm is applied to the forehead and bilateral squeezing is performed for 5 seconds. This exercise is used to stretch the vertebrae. 6. Neck bends with resistance. Similar to the previous two exercises, use your palms to create tension. First, they tilt the head to the left, put the left palm on the right temple and press lightly, thereby stretching the muscles. Then the exercise is repeated to the right.
Sitting on a chair	1. It is necessary to place the lower parts of the palms on the temples, close the jaws and tighten the muscles while inhaling. The skin in the temporal region should be pulled up with your hands. On exhalation, the tension stops, and the temples relax. The exercise is repeated up to 5 times. 2. Hands with palms should be pressed to the cheekbones so that the tips of the outstretched fingers slightly press on the temples. With a slow movement of the head back and forth, it is necessary to smoothly guide the fingers up and down, they should reach the top of the head when the head is tilted forward, and go down to the cheeks when it is thrown back. This exercise will allow you to simultaneously tense and relax your muscles and improve blood circulation. 3. Both hands should be placed on the back of the neck, fingers crossed, while the neck and back should be straight. In this position, you need to perform sliding movements with your fingers, while tilting your head

Initial position

A set of exercises

Standing on your feet

1. Neck circumference. Hands should be used as collar brace. When grasping the neck, the thumbs should be located in the lower part of the jaw, the rest - behind the back of the head. In this position, you need to tilt the head left and right, lingering in a tilted state for 2 seconds. After 8-10 repetitions, the girth is stopped and the exercise is performed again.
2. Squats with support on hands. You need to rest your palms on the tabletop, standing with your back to the table. It is necessary to tilt your head back slightly and stretch your body upward, lingering at the maximum mark for 2 seconds, then sit down without letting go of your hands and tilting your head forward. The squat level should be comfortable.
3. Book on the head. Place the hardcover edition on top of your head so that it does not slide out. In this state, you need to hold out for 3-4 minutes. If there is a feeling of discomfort, then the time is shortened. This exercise is designed to return the vertebrae to a physiologically correct position.
4. Flexion of the neck with resistance. You should put your palm on your forehead and put pressure on it from the side of your hand. At this time, the head should maintain its position for 20 seconds, after which it is thrown back, and a second palm is placed under the back of the head. Then you need to simultaneously press with both hands, creating tension for 5 seconds. This exercise is used to relieve spasms and stretch muscles.
5. Extension of the neck with head resistance. The exercise is similar to the previous one. In this case, the palm is first placed on the back of the head and presses on it for 20 seconds without changing the position of the head, after which it bends down, the second palm is applied to the forehead and bilateral squeezing is performed for 5 seconds. This exercise is used to stretch the vertebrae.
6. Neck bends with resistance. Similar to the previous two exercises, use your palms to create tension. First, they tilt the head to the left, put the left palm on the right temple and press lightly, thereby stretching the muscles. Then the exercise is repeated to the right.

Sitting on a chair

1. It is necessary to place the lower parts of the palms on the temples, close the jaws and tighten the muscles while inhaling. The skin in the temporal region should be pulled up with your hands. On exhalation, the tension stops, and the temples relax. The exercise is repeated up to 5 times.
2. Hands with palms should be pressed to the cheekbones so that the tips of the outstretched fingers slightly press on the temples. With a slow movement of the head back and forth, it is necessary to smoothly guide the fingers up and down, they should reach the top of the head when the head is tilted forward, and go down to the cheeks when it is thrown back. This exercise will allow you to simultaneously tense and relax your muscles and improve blood circulation.
3. Both hands should be placed on the back of the neck, fingers crossed, while the neck and back should be straight. In this position, you need to perform sliding movements with your fingers, while tilting your head

Exercises for osteochondrosis of the cervicothoracic region

Correct and regular exercise for cervical osteochondrosis can relieve tension, increase blood flow, strengthen the neck muscles and improve the mobility of the vertebrae.

Such loads as running, jumping, swinging and pushing, lifting weights are prohibited. You should also avoid exercises with emphasis on arms and hanging. With the permission of the doctor, the patient can play sports if he has previously practiced training, but only with a complete exercise program.

ethnoscience

1. Compress of horseradish leaves. The plant has anti-inflammatory properties. Horseradish leaves should be young and fresh. They are dipped in boiling water for a few seconds, after which they are immediately applied to the cervical spine. The top of the applique is covered with cellophane and a warm scarf. The compress is kept as long as possible. It is advisable to make a bandage at night and clean it up in the morning.
2. Alcohol compress. You will need 300 ml of medical alcohol, 10 tablets of analgin (powder), 10 ml of iodine and 10 ml of camphor alcohol. All ingredients are thoroughly mixed together. In the resulting solution, gauze is moistened, applied to the sore neck, covered with polyethylene and a warm scarf on top. The compress is kept for no more than 2-3 hours, since alcohol can provoke skin irritation. This method is contraindicated even for minor injuries.
3. Compress of potatoes and honey. 1 large raw potato is chopped on a grater and diluted with 2 tbsp. l. honey. The resulting mixture is spread on a tissue, which is attached to the painful area. The compress is removed after 2 hours.
4. Ointment with hops. 1 tbsp. l. powder obtained from hop cones, grind with 1 tbsp. l fresh butter. The resulting ointment is applied to the sore spot and insulated.
5. Elecampane broth. The root of the plant of the second year of life in the amount of 2 tbsp. l. pour a glass of boiling water. The solution is boiled for 10 minutes on low heat, and then filtered. The elecampane remedy is used for compresses applied to the spine. The application is removed after 20 minutes. This tool is also used for baths, while the amount of raw materials is increased to 10 tbsp. l.

To relieve pain, the following recipes are recommended for oral administration:

1. Tincture on pine buds. They are harvested in spring, choosing specimens with a size of at least 15 mm and no more than 20 mm. The collected raw materials are thoroughly washed, ground in a coffee grinder and diluted with sugar in a 2: 1 ratio. The ingredients are mixed together and stored in the refrigerator for 2 weeks. The resulting product is taken in 1 tsp. 3 times a day. The course of treatment is 3 weeks. The tincture is allowed to be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 year.
2. Celery juice. The root of the plant is grinded and squeezed out. They drink it in 1 tbsp. l. 3 times a day before meals. Sometimes they mix 1 tbsp. l juice with a glass of boiling water, insist for 2 hours. Such a composition is taken in 1 tbsp. l. an hour before meals 4 times a day.
3. Infusion of celery root. 3 g of raw material is filled with 500 ml of boiling water, wait until it cools completely and consume 20 ml before meals.
4. Decoction of bay leaves. Put 12 g of raw materials in an enamel bowl, pour 300 ml of cold water, boil for 5 minutes, then insist for 3 hours and filter. The tool is used throughout the day between meals in small sips. The remainder is drunk before going to bed. The course of treatment is 4 days, then a week break is taken and repeated. As a preventive measure, therapy is carried out every spring.

With osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, you can use herbal teas with a tonic effect. Drinks are useful with the use of:

lingonberry and birch leaves;
chamomile;
linden flowers;
rose hips;
calendula;
St. John's wort;
horsetail;
motherwort.

What are the most important symptoms of osteochondrosis is briefly described in this video:

Blood pressure surges

Unstable is caused by impaired blood flow in the medulla oblongata, which is responsible for the functions of the vascular-motor center.

Sudden fainting, or syncope

It occurs with spasm of the arteries of the brain due to a short-term cessation of blood flow through the vertebral arteries. The patient can be quickly brought out of the state of loss of consciousness by laying him down so that his legs are slightly higher than his head - the blood flow to the brain allows him to revive. After a fainting attack, reversible speech and movement problems may occur for some time due to a brief interruption in blood flow.

Pharyngeal symptoms

Often they can be the only sign indicating cervical osteochondrosis. Expressed as tickling, dryness and sensation, difficulty swallowing. Symptoms are associated with compression of the nerve plexuses, which are responsible for the innervation of the pharyngeal region. It is necessary to differentiate such manifestations from a similar clinic for inflammation or neoplasms.

Rise in body temperature

For cervical osteochondrosis - not the most typical symptom, it is observed rarely and locally: in the cervical and collar zone, with a slight reddening of the skin.

The clinic of osteochondrosis in the cervical spine can be, firstly, of varying severity, it depends on the stage of development of the pathology, also during periods of exacerbations they are brighter, and secondly, they develop into certain syndromes.

Symptoms depending on the stage of cervical osteochondrosis

Stage I

The beginning of degenerative processes in the cartilage of the vertebral discs. Symptoms are mild, sometimes they may not be observed at all. The first signs of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine:

discomfort in the neck, arms, shoulders, sometimes turning into pain;
headache;
slight limitation of motor activity of the neck;
fast passing visual impairment;
decrease in the sensitivity of the skin of the collar zone.

Important: these symptoms become more pronounced with tilting the head.

As a rule, patients do not turn to, believing that all symptoms are associated with fatigue, stress, age, lack of sleep.

Stage II

At this stage, the intervertebral fissures begin to narrow, collagen fiber of the annulus fibrosus of the disc is destroyed. There are noticeable pain symptoms of a point nature due to compression of the nerve trunks, aggravated by movements of the neck and. Here you can already suspect cervical osteochondrosis, the symptoms of which are as follows:

severe pain in the neck, sometimes with;
the skin of the shoulders and arms loses sensitivity almost completely;
headaches are frequent, do not go away for a long time;
visual impairment with "flies" in the eyes;
ringing and noise in the ears;
muscle weakness of the upper limbs;
reduced clarity of tendon reflexes;
shooting pains with recoil;
feeling of a lump in the throat, trouble swallowing;
sleep disturbances, usually insomnia.

Holding the head in one position for a long time leads to severe pain. At this stage of the development of the disease, patients already come to the doctor for help.

Stage III

The annulus fibrosus in the disc is destroyed, hernias are formed. there is a deformation of the spine, displacement and dislocation of the vertebrae due to their weak fixation. The symptoms are as follows:

intense, acute pain in the neck, collar zone, heart area;
impaired sensitivity of the scalp on the back of the head, in the shoulder region, up to complete absence;
hernia of the cervical spine;
paresis and paralysis of the upper limbs;
tendon reflexes are practically not observed.

This is a severe stage of the disease in which the patient is no longer able to support his head on his own. Spinal cord ischemia and compression of the spinal arteries lead to paralysis and paresis in other parts of the body and spinal stroke.

Syndromes due to osteochondrosis of the cervical spine

The non-specificity and a large number of various symptoms accompanying osteochondrosis of the cervical spine complicate the diagnosis and further treatment, since some of them may be a sign of completely different diseases. Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis are grouped together, called syndromes. Their presence and severity may indicate a pathology in the cervical spine with a specified localization.

A group of common syndromes:

Also called cervical sciatica. It combines the symptoms associated with infringement of the nerve roots of the cervical vertebrae. Characterized by "chills" in the affected area, tingling in the fingers, forearms, pasty skin, spreading to certain fingers.

Irritative reflex. Burning and sharp, sometimes with recoil to the chest and shoulder, arising at the moment of a change in the position of the head and neck, when sneezing, and a sharp turn of the head.

Elena Malysheva and her constant assistants talk about the pain, symptoms and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in the video:

Includes:

headache, seizures or constantly, of a pulsating nature;
discomfort with some movements, including after a long static position;
weakness, nausea, loss of consciousness;
hearing loss, balance problems;
decreased visual acuity.

Cardiac... Almost the same picture with angina pectoris often leads to incorrect diagnosis and treatment. The syndrome appears due to irritation of the phrenic nerve receptors, partially capturing the pericardium and pectoralis major muscle. Thus, spasms in the cardiac area are more reflex, like a response to irritation of the cervical nerves. Symptoms:

Sudden onset, prolonged pain, aggravated by a sharp movement of the neck, coughing, sneezing, which does not go away when taking heart medications.
The ECG shows no abnormalities in the blood flow of the heart muscle.
Sometimes there may be extrasystoles and.

Vegetative-dystonic syndrome. Subluxation of the first vertebra of the cervical spine with displacement can lead to the development of vegetative-vascular dystonia. VSD is not a definite diagnosis, since it does not have pronounced symptoms. There may be neurological signs, symptoms of impaired cerebral blood flow, surges in intracranial pressure, muscle spasms. As a result, the patient's complaints are reduced to dizziness, decreased visual acuity, loss of consciousness, headaches, and nausea.

How to treat cervical osteochondrosis

The described condition of the spine is a very serious pathology, which, when neglected, leads to, as the pain subsides, the patient switches to. Joins the course of drugs, exercise therapy exercises, usually prescribed at the stage of remission. In difficult cases, osteochondrosis is treated with surgery.

In this video you can see what a quick start looks like:

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is a degenerative-dystrophic disease that affects the intervertebral discs in the cervical spine.

Degenerative changes usually develop in the most mobile parts of the spine, therefore, in the cervical region, due to violations in the structure of the vertebrae, nerve roots at the level of C5, C6 and C7 most often suffer.

Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis can be observed in people of any age, and especially among the working population from 30 to 50 years old. Some people suffer from this ailment, sometimes unaware of the cause of the ailments, because degenerative changes in the cervical spine occur imperceptibly. Timely treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine will return a person to excellent health, and give health in the future.

Causes of cervical osteochondrosis

Cervical osteochondrosis has a number of features in comparison with the lumbar and thoracic. They are determined by the structural features of the vertebrae of this section, the size of the structures of which is much smaller than the vertebrae of other sections. It should be borne in mind that the cervical region is the most mobile, it is almost constantly loaded, since it holds the head. Osteochondrosis usually affects the most mobile segments, which further determines the symptoms of this disease.

Despite the prevalence of this disease and advances in modern medicine, the pathogenesis of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is not fully understood. It is known that the disease can develop against the background of metabolic disorders in the cervical spine, which eventually leads to a change in the structure of the intervertebral discs and vertebral bodies.

Poor posture, excess weight, back injury, as well as curvature of the spine can lead to osteochondrosis. Excessive physical activity, improper training, stressful situations, a sedentary lifestyle can also provoke the onset of osteochondrosis. And, of course, one must not lose sight of infectious diseases, as well as elementary hypothermia, since this can subsequently cause osteochondrosis.

Degrees of development of osteochondrosis

The disease in its development goes through several stages, during which the spine undergoes pathological changes:

Cervical osteochondrosis 1 degree... Symptoms are negligible. Basically, there is tension in the muscle ligaments and a slight pain syndrome in the area of nerve nodules. Therapy includes the use of physiotherapeutic procedures, vitamin complexes, exercise therapy. Ointments for the treatment of osteochondrosis of the neck in this period are quite an effective and effective remedy.
Osteochondrosis of the cervical vertebra in the second stage characterized by protrusion of the discs. There is a decrease in the intervertebral clefts, a gradual destruction of the fibrous ring. The appearance of pain syndromes is likely, because pinching of the nerve endings is possible.
In the third degree all symptoms are aggravated - the pain becomes constant and severe, spreading to the shoulder area and upper limbs. When palpating the cervical zone, the pain sensations increase sharply, numbness of the fingers and muscles may occur, since dangerous hernial formations develop. Stiffness occurs in the joints, their mobility deteriorates sharply.
Fourth degree... There is a complete destruction of the intervertebral disc and its replacement with connective tissue. Dizziness intensifies, a lack of coordination appears, since the process involves the vertebral artery that feeds the cerebellum and the occipital lobe of the brain.

Symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine differ from the manifestations of this disease in other parts of the spinal column. This is due to the fact that in the cervical spine, the vertebrae are located closer to each other, the intervertebral discs have a relatively small height, which leads to the appearance of a clinic even with the most insignificant pathological processes. Also, in the cervical spine, compression of the nerve roots and spinal cord occurs more often.

Symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine

Symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine appear in different ways, depending on which vertebrae are damaged by the disease. First of all, most patients feel pain in the neck, and pains can also occur in other parts of the body: in the hands, in the region of the heart, chin, and so on.

Also, a person can hear a crunch when turning the neck. Due to pinched nerves and blood vessels, a person may experience numbness of the tongue and fingertips. The patient will complain of decreased hearing and vision, high blood pressure and weakness in the muscles of the arms and legs.

Typical syndromes in cervical osteochondrosis are:

radicular syndrome;
vertebral artery syndrome;
cervical migraine syndrome;
hypertensive syndrome.

All these syndromes are accompanied, first of all, by different types of pain.

Radicular syndromes

When a nerve is pinched, the patient experiences acute pain sensations that are descending. The pain spreads from the neck to the shoulder, from the shoulder to the forearm, then affects the fingers of the hand or both hands.

A person experiencing radicular syndrome on the neck may feel "goose bumps" on the skin, tingling. The elasticity, firmness of the skin decreases, paleness and slight swelling appear.

Vertebral artery syndrome

With this syndrome of cervical osteochondrosis, a throbbing or burning headache appears, spreading to the brow region, back of the head, temple and dark. As a rule, the pain is constant, although in some cases it can be paroxysmal.

Increased pain is observed after prolonged movement or being in an uncomfortable position for a long time. If the body is weakened, nausea and loss of consciousness may occur. Hearing disorders may occur: noise, decreased hearing acuity, disruption of the vestibular apparatus. Possible effect on vision: decreased visual acuity, pain in the eyes.

Cervical migraine syndrome

In the syndrome of "cervical migraine", irritation of the sympathetic nodes is observed, which leads to a violation of the reactivity of the vessels of the brain and impaired blood circulation.

As a result, hypertension may develop, often accompanied by:

congestion in the ears;
noise in the head;
ringing in the ears.

Hypertensive syndrome

When hypertensive syndrome is determined. The headache is more of a bursting character, may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. With an exacerbation of cervical osteochondrosis, an increase in temperature and may be observed.

What is the danger of osteochondrosis of the neck?

If the disease occurs at a young age, you should expect possible complications in all parts of the spine:

Hernia of the cervical spine (intervertebral disc);
Radiculopathy of the cervical roots;
Intervertebral protrusion (protrusion) in the cervical spine;
Vertebral cervicalgia, cervicothoracalgia, cervicobrachialgia, cervicocranialgia;
In advanced cases, large osteophytes of the cervical spine, paresis, problems with the vertebral arteries, etc. can form.

If the treatment of osteochondrosis is started in the later stages, then this will only relieve pain and inflammation. It will be more difficult to completely get rid of negative changes. This is real only when long-term and complex treatment is carried out.

How to treat osteochondrosis of the neck, the specialist will say. He may recommend pharmacopuncture, vacuum, manual or laser therapy, dry traction, or electrical stimulation. After several sessions, the pain disappears. But it is important to have the full course of treatment.

Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine and its complications should be treated using conservative methods aimed at eliminating pain syndromes, dysfunction of the spinal roots, as well as preventing the progression of dystrophic changes in the structure of the spine.

In the case when conservative treatment is ineffective, then according to certain indications, surgical treatment is carried out, where the volume depends on the clinical manifestation of osteochondrosis and the level of the lesion. The most effective result in the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is considered to be a complex treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system as a whole.

Drug treatment

At home, medication for cervical osteochondrosis may include:

(for example, indomethacin) for 1-2 weeks 2-3 times during the day. These drugs are usually taken after meals.
Muscle relaxants (sirdalud, miolastan,) to improve muscle tone and relieve muscle spasm.
Corticosteroids used for intense pain in combination with analgesics.
Diuretic drugs, reducing edema in the area of inflammation -, diacarb.
Novocaine and lidocaine blockades- subcutaneous or intramuscular injection of the drug at several points around the cervical vertebrae.
Hondoprotectors to restore hyaline cartilage (arthra, rumalon, alflutop).
B vitamins... They improve metabolic processes in the nervous tissue, normalize neuromuscular conduction.

Some therapeutic effect is provided by ointments and gels for external use (Finalgon, Fastum gel and others).

Physiotherapy and Alternative Treatment

Non-drug treatment is prescribed for any stage of cervical osteochondrosis and may include:

Amplipulse therapy (treatment with modulated currents);
Reflexology;
Orthopedic gymnastics;
Lesson on special simulators;
Massage;
Manual methods;
Electrophoresis (introduction of medicinal substances through the skin using electrodes);
Magnetotherapy (exposure to magnetic fields);
Ultrasound therapy;
Laser therapy.

In advanced cases and in the presence of complications, doctors resort to surgical intervention.

Surgery

It is required if all measures aimed at relieving the inflammatory process at stages 3-4 of the disease have not led to any results. The usual period of therapy in this case is about six months. But the course of treatment for cervical osteochondrosis can be reduced if the patient has a stable deterioration in well-being.

Paralysis of the limbs, unbearable pain sensations are indications for early surgery.

Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine at home

At home, cervical osteochondrosis can be treated with no less success than in a polyclinic. The main thing that you need for effective treatment is a systematic and competent approach.

It is important to include dosed physical activity and neck gymnastics in the treatment program. It should be borne in mind that the increase in the number and intensity of exercises should be gradual so as not to harm the weakened spine.

And if you still do not know how to treat cervical osteochondrosis at home, we will be happy to give you some useful recommendations. From folk remedies for osteochondrosis of the neck, it is recommended to take decoctions or herbal infusions, as well as rub the ointment into the problem area.

Horseradish leaves. In case of inflammation of the vertebrae in the neck, take a fresh sheet of horseradish, attach it to the problem area and wrap a scarf around the neck. Similarly, you can use cabbage leaves, which should be beaten a little with a kitchen hammer before applying.
Ointment with hops for osteochondrosis of the neck. To prepare it, grind a tablespoon of hop cone powder with a tablespoon of fresh butter or unsalted lard. The resulting ointment is lubricated with a sore spot and is well insulated. With regular use of the ointment, the pain subsides and the inflammation subsides.
Elecampane root. It is important to use the roots of plants in the second year of life. The proportions for the preparation of the broth - 2 tablespoons of raw materials per glass of boiling water. Boil the roots for 10 minutes over low heat, then strain. Use a decoction of elecampane for compresses on the spine twice a day for 20 minutes. The same broth is useful for baths, just increase the amount of raw materials to ten tablespoons.
Rubbing. Half a glass of elderberry and two glasses of alcohol are insisted for seven days in a dark place. Then rub this remedy into the problem areas of the neck.
Compress of honey and grated potatoes: Mix the ingredients and put on the neck-collar zone for 20 minutes, after wrapping the mass in gauze (to make it easier to clean). Apply at rest to keep your position still and comfortable. It is enough to do the compress once a week.

Once again, I would like to remind you that cervical osteochondrosis can only be treated with complex actions. You need to not be lazy, develop a system and stick to it every day. Home treatment can provide a tangible impact on the healing process. And, of course, it is worth resorting to the help of professionals, if possible.

Video exercise for cervical osteochondrosis

Therapeutic gymnastics has no less effect than drug treatment of osteochondrosis, and is the basis of recovery. The exercises will not take long, especially since they are easy to do at home.

Gymnastics is aimed at relieving pain in osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, stretching the ligaments and relaxing the muscles of the neck. But you need to do the exercises only after consulting a doctor and very carefully so as not to harm the body.

Cervical osteochondrosis (SCH) is pathological changes in the vertebrae that lead to ossification of the soft components. As a result, the shock absorption effect disappears, hard bones rub against each other, squeezing the blood vessels and nerve fibers located nearby. With damage to the cervical vertebrae, patients usually complain of dizziness, soreness in the upper back, migraines. Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis at home can ease the symptoms, however, in order to completely get rid of the pathology, you need qualified help: special massage, gymnastics, physiotherapy and medications.

The vertebrae of the cervical spine are located close to each other, so the slightest changes in at least one of them lead to discomfort. In addition, the neck connects the head with the rest of the body, it is in it that the vessels pass that supply the brain with blood, and when they are squeezed, oxygen starvation can develop. Therefore, the localization of the pathological process in the cervical vertebrae is one of the most dangerous forms of the disease.

Due to disruptions in cerebral circulation, patients develop migraines, blood pressure rises (hypertension), and vegetative-vascular dystonia (VVD) occurs. In addition, problems with the sensory organs are often observed - vision and hearing decrease, coordination is impaired, and the cardiovascular and respiratory systems also fail.

In severe, advanced cases, patients develop vertebral artery syndrome. This vessel supplies oxygen and nutrients to the cerebellum and medulla oblongata, due to its compression, their functions are disrupted. The patient complains of dizziness, darkening in the eyes, and may faint. Spinal cord or brain ischemia, stroke may also occur.

In addition to vessels, nerve roots are also located in the vertebrae; their defeat is called radiculopathy. Bony growths can occur on them, as a result of which mobility in the neck partially or completely disappears.

The most serious complication of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is compression of the spinal cord, which, without specialized help, leads to death.

Causes and symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis

The causes of osteochondrosis are always associated with aging of the body and age-related changes in tissues, however, some factors increase the risk of pathology and rejuvenate it:

motionless lifestyle, sedentary work;
long-term regular presence in one, static position;
overweight, especially in the case of a sharp increase in weight;
constant being in a state of stress, nervous tension;
frequent hypothermia of the neck area;
autoimmune pathologies in which cartilage tissue is affected;
injuries in the neck or back of the head;
congenital abnormal structure of the vertebrae.

In addition, heredity, hormonal stability and metabolism will play an important role.

Symptoms are mainly localized in the neck, head and upper back. Patients complain of the appearance of lumbago, increased pain when trying to turn the head, the appearance of a crunch when moving. Sometimes a person cannot move at all due to severe pain.

In addition to lumbago, sick people are worried about constant headaches, which are given to the eyes and temples. Vision or hearing may also deteriorate, and a haze appears before the eyes. After sharp movements of the neck, nausea appears, sometimes vomiting, dizziness may occur, and consciousness is impaired.

Special attention should be paid to radicular symptoms, the manifestation of which depends on the defeat of a particular nerve ending:

C1 - pathological sensitivity or its disappearance in the occiput;
C2 - the appearance of pain in the region of the parietal bones or occiput;
C3 - loss of control over the tongue, as a result of which speech is impaired, neck soreness from the side of the affected nerve;
C4 - muscular hypotonia in the neck and head, impaired breathing, irradiation of pain in the right hypochondrium and heart region;
C5 - pathological sensitivity on the outer surface of the shoulder;
C6 and C7 - soreness that spreads to the neck, scapula and arm from the side of the compressed nerve root.

The degree of development of the disease

In the development of cervical osteochondrosis, four stages of the disease are distinguished, which differ in the intensity of symptoms and changes in the vertebrae:

In the first stage, the reserves of fluid disappear from the nucleus of the intervertebral discs, from which its location changes, the functioning and physiological structure are disrupted. At this stage, there are no clinical manifestations, since the pathological process has not yet spread beyond the vertebra.
In the second stage, the disc becomes flatter, which increases the load on the ligaments and muscles. They overexert themselves, and it becomes harder and harder for them to work normally. Dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis can manifest itself already at this stage.
The third stage is characterized by striking changes in bone and cartilaginous tissues, the development of subluxation, arthrosis. A pronounced clinical picture appears.
At the fourth stage, the appearance of bone growths on the vertebrae, traumatization of nerve fibers is observed.

Early detection of the disease increases the chance of full recovery, and late initiation of treatment can lead to unpleasant consequences.

Diagnostic methods

An experienced doctor can easily diagnose cervical osteochondrosis, since the disease has a characteristic clinical picture.

To determine the stage, neglect and prevalence of the pathological process, the patient is prescribed a number of additional examinations:

radiography - changes in the mobility and location of the vertebrae, a decrease in intervertebral clefts, salt deposits are determined;
computed tomography - makes it possible to see breaks, changes in the height of the disc, instability of the vertebrae, compression of nerve fibers and spinal cord;
Magnetic resonance imaging - allows you to accurately see pathological changes, determine the blood flow and the state of the nerve roots.

Usually, only an X-ray of the cervical spine is sufficient; more expensive methods are used in confusing and unclear cases.

Syndromes due to osteochondrosis of the cervical spine

A syndrome is a collection of several clinical manifestations that are combined into one symptom complex.

For osteochondrosis of the cervical vertebrae, the following syndromes are characteristic:

vertebral - pathological processes in the cartilage and bone tissue of the vertebrae;
cardiac - resembles pathologies of the cardiovascular system, for example, angina pectoris or pre-infarction state;
vertebral artery - compression of the vessels that supply the brain;
radicular - dysfunction of the nerve roots.

Each syndrome has its own characteristic list of symptoms that must be present in a given symptom complex.

Treatment of the disease

Treatment of osteochondrosis in traditional medicine is carried out with the help of massage, special exercises, physiotherapy and the use of medications. The choice of methods depends on the course of the disease: in an acute process, treatment with drugs comes to the fore, and in case of osteochondrosis in remission - physiotherapy and self-massage.

Medicines

To eliminate the cause and reduce the intensity of symptoms, several groups of medications are used:

analgesics - eliminate pain, with severe pain they are administered intravenously, and when the disease subsides, prescribe tablet forms of drugs;
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory - when taken orally, they have an analgesic effect, and when applied locally, they relieve swelling and inflammation;
muscle relaxants - help to relax the cervical muscles, which are in constant tension with osteochondrosis;
vitamins - strengthen the general health of the patient.

Drug therapy is actively used in the acute phase of the disease, other methods are used during remission.

Folk remedies

Means based on various plants (decoctions, tinctures or infusions) are often used to prevent relapse of the disease. However, before using traditional recipes, you need to consult a doctor and make sure there are no contraindications, for example, allergies.

Some of the more popular recipes are using lilacs, dill, or hops. Funds based on them help fight inflammation, relieve pain, and improve neck mobility.

Massage for cervical osteochondrosis

Massage for osteochondrosis should be prescribed only during remission of the disease. In rare cases, the use of massage therapy in the acute phase is allowed, however, then a specially trained person is needed. It must act on certain points of the body, reflexively affecting the cervical muscles; it is strictly forbidden to massage the diseased area.

During the procedure, the muscles of the patient's neck and back, at least the upper part of it, must be completely relaxed. You can sit or lie on your stomach, but for the first option, you should use a special massage chair.

The procedures have the following actions:

decrease in pain;
relieving muscle tension;
improvement of tissue trophism at the site of injury;
elimination of inflammation.

The most commonly used methods are electrophoresis, balneotherapy, ultrasound, acupuncture.

Physiotherapy

Exercises for cervical osteochondrosis are allowed to be done strictly during remission, movements in the acute phase can lead to a deterioration in the patient's condition. All physiotherapy exercises are reduced to turning and tilting the head. It is important to act slowly, without sudden movements. In case of painful sensations, stop exercising and seek the advice of a specialist.

Prophylaxis

Osteochondrosis, like any other disease, is easier to prevent than to cure later.

Preventive measures include:

posture tracking;
neck exercises;
breaks when working at the computer, reading, writing, etc.
the use of chondroprotectors and vitamins;
playing sports.

If a person has a tendency to develop pathology, he needs to periodically visit a specialist and undergo research. This will help to identify the disease at an early stage and start treatment on time.

Osteochondrosis is a dystrophic-degenerative disease, during which there is a violation of the structure and function of the intervertebral discs. Osteochondrosis of the neck is a lesion of the cervical spine.

In the course of the pathological process with osteochondrosis of the neck, the pulp of the intervertebral disc (its central, soft part) ossifies, eventually losing its cushioning properties. The cervical spine loses its flexibility, mobility, blood vessels and nerve endings are infringed in the canals between the vertebrae. The peculiarity of this pathology is that its symptoms may resemble signs of other diseases, as a result of which the diagnosis of the disease is difficult and adequate treatment is prescribed too late, when irreversible changes have already begun in the cartilage tissue.

Cervical osteochondrosis, the symptoms and treatment of which will be described below, as well as cervicothoracic osteochondrosis, develop in middle and older age, earlier in men, and somewhat later in women, and in recent years there has been a significant "rejuvenation" of osteochondrosis of the neck. Of course, over the years, even in a healthy spine, the cartilaginous tissue of the intervertebral discs is eventually replaced by fibrous fibers, thickens and hardens. This is a natural process, it leads to a decrease in the mobility of the spine, however, as a rule, it is not accompanied by pain, since the processes of fibrosis do not in any way affect the nerve endings and do not provoke their infringement. In contrast to natural physiological, pathological changes in the intervertebral discs, characteristic of osteochondrosis, extend beyond the cartilage, which provokes compression of blood vessels and nerve endings, pain and vascular syndromes.

Causes of cervical osteochondrosis

Partly in the development of osteochondrosis of the neck, the upright posture of a modern person and the corresponding distribution of loads along the spinal column, as well as the natural aging processes of body tissues, are "guilty", in addition, there are a number of provoking factors that contribute to the development and progression of this pathology:

sedentary lifestyle;
prolonged stay in the same position during work;
overweight;
past injuries of the spine in the neck;
chronic stress, constant nervous tension;
regular hypothermia of the muscles of the collar zone (for example, when being near the air flow from the air conditioner);
congenital anomalies of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs.

What is the danger of osteochondrosis of the neck?

First of all, osteochondrosis of the neck complicates a number of movements, makes them painful, contributing to the patient's hypodynamia, which is harmful in itself. A vicious circle arises: low physical activity provokes osteochondrosis, which makes the patient even less physically active, which in turn contributes to the progression of the disease.

In addition, the most important nerve plexuses and vessels pass in the canals along the vertebrae of the cervical spine, irritation and infringement of which causes reflex headaches, chronic dizziness, destabilization of blood pressure, which can make the patient disabled, significantly reduce his quality of life.

The special danger of osteochondrosis of the neck is in its difficult diagnosis and high probability of incorrect, inadequate treatment.

Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis

The manifestations of cervical osteochondrosis are erased, which greatly complicates the diagnosis. As a result, the patient, as a rule, consults a doctor even when the processes in the intervertebral joints have become irreversible. The most important symptoms of neck osteochondrosis include:

dizziness;
headache;
sharp drops in blood pressure.

All of these signs are nonspecific, they can indicate not only cervical or cervicothoracic osteochondrosis, but also many other diseases. Therefore, it is very important for any of the listed symptoms to consult a doctor and undergo a full medical examination in order to find out the true cause of the condition.

In addition, cervicalgia, or neck pain, is characteristic of osteochondrosis of the neck. It can be either localized in the back, "deep" of the neck, or given to the shoulder or arm. Characterized by the sudden onset of a painful attack - immediately after waking up, after sneezing or coughing, laughing, sudden movement. The pain, as a rule, is moderate, combined with a crunch in the cervical vertebrae when trying to turn the head, and, if the process has not yet taken an irreversible course, after a while it subsides on its own.

Separately, it should be said about fluctuations in blood pressure in cervical osteochondrosis. This is a nonspecific symptom, however, there are some signs according to which it is possible to establish a connection between blood pressure surges and osteochondrosis. This relationship is characterized by fluctuations in blood pressure throughout the day. Long-term hypertension, on the contrary, is not typical for osteochondrosis. The reason for pressure fluctuations is the reflex reaction of nerve endings in the walls of blood vessels in response to their irritation and compression. As a rule, jumps in blood pressure in osteochondrosis are accompanied by headache, pain in the extremities, impaired sensitivity of muscles and skin in the collar zone.

In addition, cervical osteochondrosis is characterized by a number of syndromes (combinations of several symptoms):

vertebral- a number of symptoms associated with damage to the bone tissue of the vertebrae (pain in the neck when trying to turn the head, impaired mobility of the cervical spine, morphological changes in the vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs visually noticeable on the roentgenogram);
vertebral artery syndrome- a number of symptoms indicating the connection of the pathological process with the vertebral arteries. With insufficient blood flow in the artery, when it is compressed, tinnitus, dizziness, drops in blood pressure, nausea up to vomiting, a feeling of stunnedness are disturbing. Irritation of the nerve endings in the walls of the arteries is manifested by migraines, flashing "flies in the eyes", a temporary decrease in visual acuity. Oxygen starvation of the brain tissues that feed the vertebral arteries is manifested by fainting, chronic drowsiness, mild persistent headache, a feeling of weakness, and decreased concentration and performance. The syndrome is typical not only for osteochondrosis, but also for atherosclerosis and other pathologies occurring with impaired circulation in the vertebral arteries;
radicular - occurs due to compression of the roots of the spinal nerves, characterized by unilateral lesion. Typical symptoms: pain, sensory disturbances, paresis and paralysis of the hands, face and neck;
cardiac - a number of symptoms arising from reflex disorders of the heart (pain, burning sensation behind the breastbone, shortness of breath, tachycardia).

Degrees of osteochondrosis of the neck

First degree- characterizes the initial stage of the disease, clinically manifested by pain in the neck after sudden movements, sneezing. The pain is acute, reminiscent of an electric shock. In this case, morphologically, damage to the capsule of the intervertebral disc is noted, which provokes irritation of the nerve endings. Neck pain can be accompanied by pain in the back of the head, tinnitus, and flashing flies in front of the eyes.

Second degree- the period of progression of the disease. At this stage, the pain in the neck becomes constant, there is a narrowing of the intervertebral openings and, in this regard, the regular infringement of the roots of the spinal nerves and the vessels passing through them. The capsule of the intervertebral joint becomes thinner, there is a pathological mobility of the spine in this area. Muscles atrophy. Fluctuations in blood pressure are characteristic. In severe cases of the disease, a "falling head symptom" may appear - the need to support the head with a hand to relieve pain and fix it in a certain position.

Third degree characterized by the destruction of the fibrous ring of the intervertebral disc, as a result of which complications of osteochondrosis may develop: dislocations of the vertebrae, intervertebral hernias, curvature of the spine. The pain is intense, radiates to the shoulder, arm, in addition to pain in the neck, headaches, dizziness, sudden jumps in blood pressure are disturbing, the patient loses the ability to work.

Diagnostics of the cervical osteochondrosis

The diagnosis of "osteochondrosis of the neck" is made on the basis of examination and questioning of the patient, the degree of morphological changes in the intervertebral discs helps to establish an X-ray examination and magnetic resonance imaging. In addition, it is important to exclude other diseases with similar symptoms: heart attack, hypertension, organic brain damage, migraine, which requires consultations of related specialists.

Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine

The volume of therapeutic measures for osteochondrosis of the neck directly depends on the degree of the pathological process. Treatment will be all the more effective the earlier it is started, so it is especially important to consult a doctor in a timely manner, with the first episodes of neck pain, dizziness, not hoping that the painful symptoms will go away on their own.

At the initial stage of the disease, the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is reduced to the elimination of pain with NSAIDs and local anesthetics (ointments, creams) or systemic (tablets, injections) action. In addition, the restoration of normal metabolic processes in the cartilaginous tissue of the intervertebral disc plays a huge role, for which chondroprotectors are used - drugs that stimulate the metabolism in the cartilage tissue and normalize its structure. In particular, in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis, the drug Dona® has shown its effectiveness - its active ingredient, crystalline glucosamine sulfate, is a source of valuable components of cartilage tissue. It stimulates the production of proteoglycans in the cartilage tissue, which form the structure of the cartilage. At the same time, glucosamine sulfate suppresses inflammation and destructive processes in the cartilage tissue.

With the progression of the pathological process, antispasmodics and muscle relaxants can serve in addition to the described therapy to eliminate muscle spasm. The doctor may recommend novocaine blockade to relieve pain, however, this method can be attributed exclusively to palliative, allowing to eliminate painful symptoms, but in no way affecting the course of the neck osteochondrosis itself. With advanced osteochondrosis, the only effective remedy can be surgical treatment, since the possibilities of conservative treatment at this stage have been exhausted.

They have proven themselves well: electrophoresis, magnetotherapy, ultrasound therapy, mud therapy. Massage and manual therapy are traditionally important parts of the complex treatment of osteochondrosis. It should be remembered that all physiotherapy methods must be used only if the osteochondrosis of the neck is in remission, otherwise you can only activate the pathological process. Any manipulations during massage should be as gentle as possible.

Physiotherapy exercises (exercise therapy) for cervical osteochondrosis

It acquires an important role in the treatment of osteochondrosis. The methods of physiotherapy exercises are different, but their general essence is unchanged: accurate restoration of healthy mobility of the affected area of the spine and, associated with this, stimulation of blood supply and nutrition of the cartilaginous tissue. When diagnosed with cervical osteochondrosis, exercises should be as gentle as possible, the load on the spine is minimal. Sharp turns, rotational movements, deep inclinations, which can damage the capsule of the intervertebral joint and aggravate the pathological process, are unacceptable.

Prevention of cervical osteochondrosis

Cartilage tissue is not restored, and therefore it is advisable to prevent its progression, rather than then try to treat the consequences. The basis for the prevention of cervical osteochondrosis is a healthy lifestyle, reasonable mobility, balanced nutrition, body weight control, short breaks for gymnastics with sedentary professional activities. In addition, at the very first signs of trouble on the part of the cervical spine, you should consult a doctor and, if indicated, start taking chondroprotectors, for example, which will help normalize the metabolism in the cartilaginous tissue and significantly slow down the progression of the disease.