Osteochondrosis in the usual sense for us is a disease of the spine, manifested by a decrease in the height of the discs. But this is a natural process in the body, associated with its aging and retribution for bipedalism. Changes of this type can be found in most people in the age group of 25-40 years and older.
The structure of the cervical spine includes seven C1-C7 vertebrae, connected by an elastic tissue of the intervertebral discs. At the bow there are seven processes connected to each other and the blood vessels and nerve endings pass through their small openings. With a disease, the disc loses 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 the x-ray, this has no important clinical significance.
In general, the prognosis of the pathology is favorable, in the vast majority there is a recovery, but it can be delayed for several weeks or months.
Incidence statistics
Most people with osteochondrosis are adults. On average, only 15% of cases involve patients under the age of 30. For people aged 30 to 49, cervical vertebrae problems occur in 65% of cases. Over the years there have been more and more reports of the disease due to the sedentary lifestyle of many workers.
| How is it going | The age of women | Age of men |
|---|---|---|
| Not progressing | 58 | 65 |
| Progressing slowly | 46 | 46 |
| progresses rapidly | 49 | fifty |
The relationship between disease severity and dynamics is approximately the same in men and women (~ 50/50). The ages are also nearly identical. The difference is only for the group in which the disease does not progress: it is evident that the average age of men in this case is 7 years older.
| city dwellers | villager | Mental work | Physical work | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Not progressing | 41 | 56 | 55 | 55 |
| Progressing slowly | 31 | 31 | 29 | 28 |
| progresses rapidly | 28 | fourteen | fifteen | 17 |
It is also evident that fast-acting osteochondrosis occurs more often in urban residents than in rural ones.
Causes of the disease
Many factors, individually or in combination, affect the condition of the cervical spine.
Osteochondrosis of the cervical region - degenerative changes of the intervertebral discs in the cervical region.
Manifested by pain, general weakness, numbness in the arms and neck, sometimes tinnitus.
To determine the degree of damage to cartilage tissue and the involvement of vessels and nerves in the process, X-ray, CT, MRI and other studies are performed.
Medical and physiotherapy treatment, lifestyle correction.
The list of causes contributing to intervertebral disc malnutrition:
- physical inactivity or a sedentary lifestyle;
- improper metabolism;
- salt deposits;
- unbalanced diet;
- sedentary work, including driving a vehicle or working on a computer;
- obesity;
- violation of posture;
- depression, stress, overexertion;
- viral diseases in a chronic form;
- abrupt interruption of training in athletes or incorrect movements during physical exertion;
- wound;
- genetic predisposition;
- childbirth;
- violations in the formation of the bone tissues of the spine;
- hypothermia;
- weightlifting;
- flat feet.
This list can be supplemented, it all depends on the individual characteristics of development, lifestyle and the presence of concomitant diseases.
The degree of development of the intervertebral disc pathology
Pathology develops gradually and there are 4 degrees in total:
1 degree
Signs of manifestation of the disease are minimal, pain in the cervical region is insignificant. When you turn your head, they can intensify and create discomfort. When examined by a doctor, there is slight muscle tension in the neck area.
2 degrees
The pain in this case is stronger than in the description above. And they can give way in the arm or shoulder area. This manifestation is provoked by a decrease in the height of the spinal disc and the violation of the nerve endings contained in it.
The pain is noticeable when turning or tilting the head. At the same time, the patient's working capacity decreases, headache attacks occur, general weakness of the body.
3 degrees
The pain becomes stronger, numbness in the limbs and weakness in the muscles of the hands appear, which means the formation of intervertebral hernias. This degree of the disease is accompanied by frequent dizziness and general weakness of the body.
4 degrees
This is the most dangerous condition of the body, as there is a complete destruction of the disc and the replacement of bone tissue with elastic. At the same time, dizziness becomes frequent, noise appears in the back of the head and ears, coordination of movements is disturbed.
This is due to the violation of the artery that supplies the cerebellum and the back of the head. In the fourth stage of the disease, the pain in the neck subsides significantly due to the regeneration of cartilage tissue, but pinched nerve endings remain.
Pain syndrome is not always associated with the presence of protrusions, hernias in the spine, more often it is a question of nonspecific back pain.
Symptoms
Pain can occur in various parts of the body, so special examinations are required. For example, pain can occur in the area of the eyeballs, in the dental nerves, or in the ears. In some cases, they can spread to the shoulders, arms, shoulder blades, and lower back.
Pain in the heart muscle is not excluded, they can easily be confused with heart disease. If you use drugs that help eliminate pain from heart failure, they will not be helpful.
Due to cervical osteochondrosis, arteries can be pinched (which is extremely rare and only with massive osteophytes or large hernias) which feed the brain with blood, hence dizziness, noise in the head, nausea, headache, loss of orientation, decreased visual function may appear and hear.
| Place of demonstration | characteristic sensations |
|---|---|
| Cervical | It hurts and turns the head, it is difficult to breathe, hearing and vision deteriorate, hoarseness appears in the voice, hands become numb. |
| Lumbar | Low back pain - acute or dull, sweating problems, leg cramps, cold feet, menstrual irregularities, erectile dysfunction. |
| thoracic | It is difficult to breathe, tightness in the chest or back, the pain radiates to the region of the heart and occurs when bending and breathing. |
After a long time in an upright position of the body and a sharp rise, severe dizziness may occur. The fingers, toes and the tip of the nose are often cold.
Each case is individual and an examination must be carried out before prescribing drugs.
Syndromes with cervical osteochondrosis
A syndrome is a group that combines several clinical features. The following varieties are distinguished.
Cardiac
Symptoms are similar to the image that arises in violation of the heart, as well as to a condition that precedes a heart attack. This category includes:
- burning and pain in the chest;
- increased fatigue;
- dyspnea;
- general weakness;
- frequent heartbeat.
To differentiate cervical osteochondrosis from heart disease, functional tests and electrocardiography are used.
Vertebral
Such a syndrome indicates the relationship of the pathological condition with the cartilage and the body of the bone tissue. It includes three main symptoms:
- acheduring the turns of the neck;
- change tospacebetween the vertebrae and their body;
- violationmobilityin the neck area.
These characteristics are directly related to each other. If any of the symptoms are absent, we are not talking about vertebral syndrome.
Vertebral artery
Indicates the relationship between pathological processes and arteries that feed brain tissue. The syndrome includes the following symptoms which are directly related to blood flow dysfunction in the brain:
- nerve irritationendings, which is manifested by migraines, severe headaches, tinnitus, numbness of the limbs;
- dysfunctionBlood flowin the trunk, which will be indicated by attacks of nausea and vomiting, dizziness, changes in blood pressure;
- defectoxygen, manifested by drowsiness, depression, fainting, decreased performance.
The development of the syndrome is facilitated not only by cervical osteochondrosis, but also by other pathological processes.
Root
The manifestation is based on the connection of 1 of 8 pairs of roots that innervate the cervical spine. Typically, only one side of the body is affected.
The following symptoms will indicate a violation of conductivity:
- 1-2 pairs- pain in the nape;
- Third- difficulty chewing food, numbness of the tongue;
- fourth- hiccups, pain in the collarbone;
- fifth- Difficulty in moving the shoulder joint;
- sixth- discomfort in the forearm and shoulder blades;
- seventh- numbness of the middle and index fingers of the upper limbs;
- eighth- violation of the mobility of the little fingers and ring finger on the hands.
Since in most cases several couples are involved in the pathological process at the same time, mixed symptoms are observed.
Diagnostics
To diagnose the presence of the disease, an analysis of the patient's lifestyle is initially performed, including his professional activity. Summarizes information about symptoms. In addition, an investigation is conducted on the presence of a similar pathology among family members in order to determine the hereditary predisposition factors.
Next, a direct examination of the neck and back is performed in different positions so that changes in posture and visible disc positions can be determined. Painful areas and points of muscle tension are felt. But these are only external examinations, and a more detailed picture can only be drawn with the help of instrumental methods.
X-ray of the cervical spine
The information content of this method for diagnosing hernia is small.
CT scan
This is a more advanced way to detect changes in the vertebrae, but it is difficult to determine the size and presence of hernias, as well as the compression points of the spinal cord.
magnetic resonance
This method is the most progressive, compared to the previous two. With it, you can draw a detailed conclusion about the size, location and structure of intervertebral changes.
Duplex ultrasonic scanning
It is used for suspected changes in blood flow in the vertebral arteries, including the speed and presence of obstructions.
Reoencephalography or REG
This test is intended to study normal blood supply and blood outflow from the brain. Currently, it is rarely prescribed due to the low information content.
The above diagnostic methods can be used individually or in combination to determine the cause of the disease.
Treatment
It is completely impossible to cure cervical osteochondrosis, but with the help of some methods this process can be slowed down.
With an exacerbation of this disease, pain relieving drugs are usually prescribed, and together with them vitamins and muscle relaxants, the latter are aimed at increasing the elasticity of soft bone tissues. Specialists prescribe massage procedures, wearing a Shants collar. Electrophoresis and ultrasound procedures are also effective.
You can do the massage yourself, but only after consulting a specialist. The main methods are:
- kneadmuscles: deep external impact, crease grip, relatively strong squeezing and pressure;
- lightvibration- tap and shake;
- shredding- a small application of effort to implement friction in the muscle warming state;
- caress- the movements are gentle without the use of effort;
- squeezing- Light pressure and release.
With the help of manual therapy, you can get rid of pain of a chronic nature and correct your posture. Its direction is to warm the muscles, relieve tension, restore the normal functions of the joints, and with a strong effect on the pathogenic zones, the restoration of the cervical vertebrae occurs.
Acupuncture: This method promotes the release of the hormone cortisol, which has anti-inflammatory properties, into the bloodstream.
Exercise therapy at home
Correctly performed therapeutic exercises have the most positive effect. The main principle of the exercise is based on the normalization of blood flow in the damaged area.
During physical therapy, strong inclinations and rotation of the head should not be used. Movements are allowed in which the joints are in the original position.
There are a number of effective exercises for osteochondrosis of the cervical region.
First
Lie on your stomach, place 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. The number of repetitions is not more than 3.
According to
Sit down and lean forward as you inhale. In this case, the head should touch the chest. During exhalation, the head is tilted and tilted back. You have to repeat up to 15 times.
Third
In a sitting position, rotate your head alternately in each direction. In this case, the movements should be smooth and shallow. If dizziness occurs, exercise should be stopped.
Physical therapy is allowed only in the absence of an exacerbation of the pathology. The best effect is obtained at the time of recovery.
The absence of pain and discomfort will indicate the correct use of the complex.
Orthopedic pillows
As a rule, most of the time a person is in a sedentary state. As a result, back pain begins to appear. The rest of the spinal section is only possible at night during sleep. Therefore, it is important to choose the right pillow.
Orthopedic sleep items help reduce stress and normalize the physiological position of the spine during the night.
Before choosing a pillow, you should consult your doctor. An experienced specialist will select the most suitable options, taking into account the rigidity, the presence of rollers along the edges, intended for placement under the neck.
If a person is overweight, a pillow with a shoulder notch may be recommended.
To achieve maximum effect, it is also important to consider the following criteria:
- The dimension. If a person is used to sleeping on his back, then the optimal height will be 9 cm, if on the stomach - less.
- Levelrigidity. Here you also need to take into account your preferred sleeping position. If you sleep on your stomach most of the time, a softer product will do; on the back, better opt for a firm pillow.
- The module. For night rest, doctors recommend taking a rectangular model. For a short rest, the crescent option is suitable.
The main disadvantage of orthopedic pillows is that with the wrong choice, a person will constantly experience discomfort.
Needle applicator
It is a device consisting of a fabric base and an elastic material on which plastic plates with spikes are fixed. Additionally, the kit may include inserts with magnetic strips.
The work of the device is based on the effect of acupuncture on the human body. The use of the applicator for cervical osteochondrosis contributes to:
- eliminationspasmsand muscle relaxation
- cuppingpainfulback syndrome;
- normalizationblood circulation;
- improvementmobilityjoints;
- revitalizationmetabolic processes in tissues.
The main contraindications for use:
- chronicdiseases;
- pregnancy;
- oncologicalpathology;
- epilepticattacks;
- tendency tobleeding;
- cardiaclung disease and damage.
The therapeutic path lasts 14-21 days in compliance with all the prescriptions of the attending physician. Use the device only in a well-ventilated area.
Diet
Compliance with proper nutrition is an important component in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis.
General recommendations
A properly formulated diet has its own characteristics. First of all, there are no strict restrictions on food. The menu involves the use of a variety of healthy foods. In each case, the daily energy value is calculated individually. It is important that proteins, fats, carbohydrates and fiber are constantly present in the diet.
To prevent tissue dehydration, it is recommended to drink at least 1. 5 liters of pure water per day. In the summer, the daily rate is significantly increased.
Also, the salt intake should be reduced. Its excessive amount in the body contributes to the appearance of edema and constitutes an additional burden on the vascular system. No more than 5 grams of this product per day are allowed.
It is also advisable to reduce the consumption of starch and sugar.
All dishes are steamed, in the oven, by boiling.
Prohibited products
Patients with cervical osteochondrosis will have to give up a large amount of coffee, pastries and sweet products.
From the diet it is necessary to completely exclude:
- dried fish;
- carbonated drinks;
- pickles;
- preserves and sausages;
- cakes;
- fatty broths;
- nutritional supplements.
In addition, strong tea, sweet grapes, spicy dishes, marinade and smoked meats are prohibited.
Complications and consequences
Pain resulting from cervical osteochondrosis is not yet a serious symptom of the disease. But if you don't respond to them in a timely manner and take no action, then there may be irreversible processes later on. The most dangerous disease resulting from displacement or herniation of the vertebral discs can be cardiovascular pathologies.
When the arteries that pass into the spine are squeezed, the cerebral circulation is disturbed and, as a result, the brain experiences hunger. As a result, the function of the cerebellum and upper parts of the spinal cord is disturbed, noises appear in the back of the head.
Due to the poor blood supply, vision is impaired and hearing is lost. Comorbidities begin, such as thyroid disease, migraines, and curvature of the spine. Cervical osteochondrosis can provoke a violation of the normal function of the digestive system and genital organs.
By studying the pathogenesis of the disease, experts found that its origin is often provoked by an unhealthy lifestyle, malnutrition, as well as stress and increased stress on the body. Therefore, if minor signs appear, it is recommended to contact your doctor to prevent them from developing into a more serious pathology.
Prevention
Preventive measures to prevent such a disease should be different. Experts advise:
- to sleepon a medium-hard mattress and a low pillow;
- visit periodicallybathor a sauna. This helps relieve tension in the muscles;
- take every dayshowerwith hot water;
- walk moreon foot, swim or do yoga exercises;
- Nottouron the sides of the head sharply;
- after work forcomputerat the end of each hour, rest for five minutes, while working with your hands, making small bends of the torso, not forgetting to maintain the posture;
- tosedentarywork to keep your back straight;
- select speciallyarmchairsor comfortable chairs for work.
In addition to the physical impact on the proper functioning of the cervical vertebrae, it is necessary to adjust the nutritional diet. To do this, you need to eat a little, but often - at least 5 times a day.
Steam dishes will ensure good digestion and will not have a negative effect on soft bone tissue. It is necessary to drink at least one and a half liters of clean water a day and completely exclude alcoholic beverages and smoking. It is recommended to dress salads with olive oil.
The following foods should be included in the nutritious diet:
- rabbit meat,Chickenor lean beef
- tomatoesand cucumbers, kale, beets, avocado, celery, spinach, lettuce, peppers, carrots, and onions;
- hangcheeses, ricotta and milk;
- fish, squid, crab and oysters;
- aspicand gelatin;
- seedsunflower, almonds and hazelnuts;
- cereals, eggs and mushrooms.
It is recommended to exclude from the diet or limit the amount of consumption:
- fatty soups;
- beans;
- beans;
- grape;
- smoked meats;
- flour products and spicy dishes.
For preventive purposes, you can perform simple physical exercises:
- lyingstomachand put your hands on the floor. Then slowly and carefully raise your head and fix this position for a minute. After returning to the starting position. Then repeat 3 or 4 times.
- Lying on your stomach, handsto organizealong the body, then gently turn the head to the right. Return to the starting position and turn your head to the left as well. Repeat on both sides 5 times.
- Sitting on a chairdisappointhead until the chin touches the body. Do this exercise as you exhale. Then take the starting position. After inhaling the air from your lungs, tilt your head back. Repeat the exercise - 10 times.
- Rotatetest 4 times clockwise and counterclockwise, but if health permits.
Complexes of exercises can be different, a medical operator will help you choose them.
In any case, before performing gymnastics, it is necessary to consult a specialist, and if during the exercises you have dizziness or pain, you should stop them and consult your doctor.
Answers to common questions
Which doctor does he treat?
At the first signs of the development of pathology, it is necessary to contact a therapist who, after an initial examination, will refer to a neurologist (it is he who treats problems of the nervous system), a radiologist and a specialist in tomography. The vertebrologist carries out the subsequent diagnostics and prescribes treatment. An osteopath will help determine the location of the lesion.
What pillow to sleep on with cervical osteochondrosis?
Experts recommend using only orthopedic pillows for sleeping. They must meet the following requirements: elastic, moderately dense, rectangular in shape, small in size.
How long does an exacerbation last?
The duration of an attack is on average 2-5 days. However, after this period, for another 2-3 weeks, the patient will feel discomfort in the affected area of the spinal region. Therefore, the exacerbation phase can last from several days to several months.
How long to stay on the needle applicator?
With cervical osteochondrosis, one session lasts no more than 7 minutes. At the same time, every 60 seconds it is necessary to slightly change the position of the head and back. It is necessary to carry out 2-3 procedures per day.