Osteochondrosis is a common disease of the spine, characterized by degenerative changes in the structure of the cartilaginous tissue of the discs and the bone base.The pathology manifests itself mainly after the age of 30.
The symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis can be different, which greatly complicates the process of diagnosis and subsequent treatment.
Characteristics of the disease.
The cervical region is made up of vertebrae and nerve endings.Osteochondrosis of this area is formed during the degeneration of the intervertebral nucleus.In this case, the ongoing pathology affects the nerve endings and important blood vessels.
The disease is well disguised as other disorders, since the symptoms of osteochondrosis are characterized by attacks of headaches, as well as the appearance of significant discomfort in the neck.Patients complain of blood pressure problems and nausea.Many people often confuse these symptoms with diseases of the heart and blood vessels.
Often, against the background of continuous problems, the patient suddenly begins to lose consciousness, there is shortness of breath and numbness of the tongue.The disease is diagnosed mainly in people over 30 years old, which is associated with constant dynamic and static loads.Recently, these disorders have been observed even in adolescents.
Degrees of development
Symptoms and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis largely depend on the degree of development of the disease.At the first stage, the nutrition of the cartilaginous tissue is disturbed, as a result of which certain enzymes are produced that have a destructive effect.The person feels intense discomfort.Daily morning exercises will help eliminate these symptoms.
In the second stage, the harmful effects of pathological enzymes constantly increase and inflammation begins to develop in the body.The cartilage tissue gradually wears out, as a result of which the vertebrae begin to touch each other, pinching the nerve endings.Painful sensations become more pronounced.It is very difficult for a person to work.
In the third degree, neoplasms and growths begin to form in the bone tissue.The symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in this case manifest themselves in the form of severe pain.There is a metabolic disorder, due to which salts begin to deposit in the spine, in the area of inflammation.The process of ossification of the vertebrae begins, which leads to the gradual development of an intervertebral hernia.
It is not always possible to immediately determine the stage of the disease based on the existing symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, since the degree of tissue destruction may not correspond to the existing signs.
Causes
Before determining the symptoms and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis, it is necessary to understand exactly what factors influence the formation of the pathological process.The development of the disease is influenced by pathological and physiological processes that are closely interrelated and are mainly considered together.
Physiological changes can be caused by irreversible age-related processes in cartilage tissue.Discomfort occurs when nerve endings are irritated.Pathological changes occur as a result of poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle.Mostly, these disorders occur in adolescents and middle-aged people.
In some cases, osteochondrosis can disappear on its own or manifest itself as short-term disorders.Among the main provoking factors, it is worth highlighting the following:
- lack of regular physical activity;
- overweight;
- frequent stay in an uncomfortable position;
- incorrectly selected pillow or mattress;
- nervous overstrain;
- hypothermia;
- Injuries to the neck and neck.
The cause of the development of osteochondrosis can be congenital anomalies, as well as various types of autoimmune diseases.
Main symptoms
There are many vessels and nerve endings located in the neck area.That is why the symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical and thoracic spine are associated with ischemia of certain areas of the brain.In addition, the nerve endings that provide motor activity and sensitivity of the shoulder girdle and upper extremities, when compressed by destroyed vertebrae, can provoke various manifestations.The symptoms and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis largely depend on which system is affected by the pathological process.In particular, the following signs can be identified:
- impaired blood microcirculation due to compression of the vertebral arteries;
- signs of damage to nerve endings;
- severe neurotic pathologies in advanced cases.
The first symptom of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis of the spine is the presence of pain in the neck, neck and neck area.The location of the pain may be more generalized and cause intense migraines.The nature of the pain largely depends on the location of the injury and the severity of the pathology.In the initial stages of the disease, the discomfort may pass quickly, and gradually the pain becomes chronic and painful.During the period of exacerbation, the pain becomes stabbing, the tone of the neck muscles increases, and there is a restriction in head movement.
Among the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in women and men are the presence of ringing and noise in the ears, as well as congestion.In some cases, hearing loss occurs.All of these manifestations are associated with a decrease in blood flow.
Also among the main features are the following:
- dizziness,
- pressure changes,
- shortness of breath,
- nausea,
- visual impairment.
Dizziness is considered one of the symptoms of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis.They are caused by a violation of blood flow to the organs that ensure the balance of the body.Shortness of breath can occur as a result of irritation of the nerve endings involved in regulating the respiratory process.Patients often complain that they cannot breathe deeply.In some cases, symptoms worsen to severe respiratory distress or asthma attacks.
The lack of oxygen associated with respiratory problems is the main cause of increased fatigue, decreased attention and memory problems.In some cases, nausea may appear, which is caused by poor circulation in certain areas of the brain.Sometimes it can be accompanied by vomiting, loss of appetite and weight loss.
Symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine manifest themselves in the form of impaired visual acuity.However, such a violation occurs very rarely.It is worth noting that performing therapeutic exercises and wearing glasses does not give the desired result and vision improves only after treatment of osteochondrosis.
Unstable pressure is caused by impaired blood circulation in the area of the brain responsible for the functioning of the vascular-motor center.In some cases a slight increase in temperature and local redness of the skin can be observed.
It is very important to quickly recognize the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis.The feeling of discomfort and pain does not always occur, so it is important to carry out a thorough examination and competent treatment in a timely manner.It is worth noting that each patient experiences a characteristic crunch and clicking when moving the neck, and it is by this sign that the course of the pathology can be recognized.
Carrying out diagnoses.
If symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis occur, treatment should be started immediately, so it is advisable to immediately consult a neurologist.To establish the cause of the existing symptoms, a comprehensive examination is required.
During an examination with neurological tests, the doctor evaluates the degree of mobility and pain in the neck, as well as the characteristics of blood circulation in the vertebral artery.Among the main diagnostic methods, it is worth highlighting the following:
- x-ray of the cervical vertebrae,
- discography,
- tomography,
- myelography,
- Doppler ultrasound.
All of this will allow us to determine the location of the lesion and the degree of advanced disease, as well as select the most effective treatment regimen.The treatment process is quite long and requires patience.
It is impossible to completely restore cartilage structures, but it is possible to significantly improve the quality of life and eliminate chronic pain.It is very important to monitor the course of the disease in order to adjust the treatment program if necessary and predict possible improvements or complications.
Treatment features
Regardless of the symptoms, the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is carried out using conservative methods and is always comprehensive.The use of medications is required, in particular:
- anti-inflammatory medications,
- pain relievers,
- corticosteroids,
- muscle relaxants,
- vitamin complexes.
In severe cases, novocaine blocks are prescribed in the area of greatest pain.Sometimes the introduction of hormonal agents may be indicated.Additionally, local treatment is indicated, which involves the use of warm ointments and gels.Physiotherapy and exercise therapy have a good effect.These techniques allow you to strengthen your neck muscles very quickly and effectively.However, its use is possible only after the acute period has passed.
To increase the space between the vertebrae, hardware traction of the spine is indicated.In severe cases, surgical intervention is necessary, but there must be adequate indications for this.
The therapy can be complemented with the use of a Shants orthopedic collar.Thanks to the strong fixation of the cervical vertebrae, the treatment is carried out much faster.This device allows you to quickly cope with pain, normalize blood circulation in the neck and improve the general well-being of the patient.
Drug therapy
Depending on the symptoms of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis, drug treatment is selected individually.The therapy is aimed at eliminating pain, inflammation, as well as returning normal mobility to the vertebrae and blood circulation.
Among the main groups of drugs, the following should be highlighted:
- pain relievers;
- anti-inflammatory;
- chondroprotectors;
- muscle relaxants;
- vitamin complexes.
Products are needed for external use, which can be used in the form of ointments and gels.They help normalize blood circulation, eliminate pain and spasms, and also produce a warming effect.
Treatment with drugs that normalize cerebral circulation will help eliminate the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis of the spine.To improve metabolic processes in the brain, as well as restore thinking and memory, nootropic drugs are required.
Physiotherapeutic techniques
Treatment with special therapeutic exercises will help quickly and effectively eliminate the existing symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis at home.In addition to exercise therapy and the use of medications, the range of measures includes the following methods of influence:
- spine stretching,
- massage,
- physiotherapeutic influence.
Traction of the spine will increase the spaces between the vertebrae.However, it is worth remembering that the load must be dosed.The impact is carried out in different ways, in particular using special tables.
The massage gives very good results.This procedure normalizes blood circulation, nutrition and gas exchange of cartilage tissue.In addition, with the help of massage you can eliminate muscle tension and spasms and get rid of painful sensations.
Physiotherapeutic effects involve the use of various means, such as:
- laser exposure,
- magnetic field,
- ultrasound,
- low frequency current.
In some cases, medications are also used in combination with physiotherapy, which increases their effectiveness and prevents the occurrence of side effects.
Acupuncture allows you to improve or slightly slow down body processes by influencing biologically active points.The greatest effectiveness of all these measures is achieved when they are used comprehensively.
Traditional methods
When the first symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis appear, home treatment involves the use of medicinal baths to quickly eliminate pain and inflammation.In addition, they help relax the spine.Water procedures should be performed every other day and the course of therapy is 15-20 procedures.
You can add a decoction of mint, chamomile, birch, lemon balm or sage to your bath water.Yarrow infusion is well suited for oral administration, as it helps to quickly eliminate inflammation, pain and spasms.A sea salt solution can be used as compresses.Home treatment will help quickly eliminate the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, but before using any means and techniques, you should definitely consult a doctor to prevent complications.
Carrying out prevention.
The best form of prevention is a healthy lifestyle, as well as posture training from childhood.For prevention purposes, it is recommended:
- nutritional adjustments;
- use of orthopedic pillow and mattress for sleeping;
- gentle weight lifting.
The initial form of the disease usually does not have pronounced symptoms.If you feel pain in the sternum area, you should immediately consult a doctor.
Possible complications
With timely diagnosis and adequate treatment, osteochondrosis of the cervical spine occurs without complications.Otherwise, there is a risk of various types of pathological changes that can lead to disability.Among the main complications are:
- circulatory disorders in the brain;
- increased blood pressure;
- weakness, numbness, muscle atrophy;
- hernias and lumps;
- vegetative-vascular dystonia;
- neurological disorders.
To prevent the development of complications, you must strictly follow all the recommendations of your doctor.Getting rid of unpleasant sensations at an early stage is much easier than treating an advanced disease.It is also important not to forget about prevention and prevent bad posture in the child.Folk remedies help in the fight against the disease, but you should not completely rely on them and refuse drug treatment.This can lead to an exacerbation of the problem when surgical intervention is required.