Non-surgical treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is a disease characterized by damage to the intervertebral discs.

Cervical osteochondrosis is one of the most common diseases in the world. According to statistics, about 60% of the world's population suffers from it, because modern people suffer from physical inactivity, as well as spend a lot of time in sedentary work. Osteochondrosis manifests itself in the form of damage to the intervertebral cartilage, as well as reactive processes in adjacent tissues.

The vertebrae of the cervical spine are much smaller than the vertebrae of other vertebrae, but the load on them is not small. We constantly turn our heads, so the neck is in a systematic motion. In the early stages, the disease is difficult to recognize, and the main manifestations of the disease are often overlooked by patients. The result is the onset of cervical collar osteochondrosis, which significantly complicates the subsequent treatment process.

In a modern clinic, he successfully treats cervical osteochondrosis with non-surgical methods using correction and kinesitherapy.

Causes of osteochondrosis of the neck

There are several factors that contribute to the development of osteochondrosis:

• Physical inactivity is the main reason that prevents the development of a dangerous disease. Moderate incomplete physical activity leads to muscle and bone skeletal degradation. Inadequate daily activities are not the only problem of office workers and drivers. People who prefer to spend their free time at the computer or watch TV suffer from hypodynamics.
• Excessive physical activity. Professional athletes often suffer from axial loads in the back. Working to the best of your ability also threatens inexperienced athletes who train without the supervision of a professional coach and train with the wrong equipment.
• Negative factors for posture include walking in high heels and uncomfortable shoes, scoliosis, flat feet, as well as incorrect body position during sleep.
• Excess weight puts too much strain on the spine, causing vertebral displacement and erosion of cartilaginous structures.
• Rheumatism.
• Disorders of the endocrine system.
• Stress.
• Neck hypothermia.
• A sedentary lifestyle (like drivers and office workers) or excessive physical activity (like athletes).

As a rule, under the influence of these factors, a load is formed on the cervical vertebrae, which leads to muscle spasm. As a result, the circulatory system is disrupted and metabolism deteriorates, leading to degenerative changes.

An interesting fact: the risk of developing a disease such as osteochondrosis is mainly associated with evolutionary changes in the human body. It's about walking upright. Throughout life, the spine serves as the "core" of our body. The vertebrae gradually wear out by pressing on the cartilaginous discs, thus damaging the connective tissue. Therefore, osteochondrosis often feels old.

The symptoms and treatment of cervical spine osteochondrosis will largely depend on the causes that trigger the onset of the disease. Doctors conduct a series of examinations to develop an individual therapeutic plan. Self-medication for neck pain is not strongly recommended. Improper massage, medication or traditional medicine can aggravate the condition and lead to a number of irreversible consequences!

Cervical osteochondrosis: symptoms and treatment

Manifestations of a dangerous disease depend on 2 main factors:

1. Type of load on the cervical spine.
2. Location of damage to the cartilage structure of the intervertebral disc.

Nerve roots perform many functions, so the symptoms of damage to their individual parts can be very different. In addition, the stage of development of the disease should be taken into account. There are 4 of them, each of which is heavier than the previous one.

Cervical osteochondrosis 1 degree

This degree is called preclinical and is poorly expressed, so patients associate symptoms with stress, lack of sleep, and other seemingly insignificant problems. The spine begins to defend itself against "destructive" movements and excessive stress, so people begin to feel discomfort.

The main symptoms are:

• headache
• discomfort in the neck, shoulders and arms
• mild visual impairment
• a slight decrease in motor activity of the neck

One of the most noticeable symptoms of the preclinical stage of cervical osteochondrosis is constant tension in the neck muscles. Muscles work too fast, which causes unbearable pain, as well as a crisis when turning / bending the head.

Since the above problems are not very worrying, most patients prefer the situation to go its own way. In fact, it is necessary to start treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, because the sooner you start therapy, the more effective it will be.

Grade 2 cervical osteochondrosis

In this condition, patients begin to feel noticeable pain when tilting / turning their heads. Unpleasant sensations often spread to the arms, shoulder joints and hands. Problems with the state of the nervous system begin to appear: a person becomes irritable, inattentive, significantly reduces the ability to work daily. The main symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in women are almost identical to the symptoms of problems with the reproductive system (weakness, fatigue, apathy, and more).

Despite the obvious signs of the disease, it is still possible to get rid of osteochondrosis of the neck. First of all, doctors try to eliminate the risk of hernia, which leads to impaired mobility of organs and blood supply to the brain.

The main symptoms are:

• severe neck pain
• noise in the ears
• vision impairment
• decreased sensitivity of the skin of the shoulders and arms
• worsening of tendon reflexes

Cervical osteochondrosis 3 degrees

At this stage of development, the disease is already considered indifferent. In stage 3, cervical osteochondrosis is more difficult to treat because the destruction / deformation of cartilaginous structures is often irreversible. The pain syndrome is exacerbated, which is associated with the active development of hernias and the friction of the bone tissue of the vertebrae.

In addition to pain, the patient experiences weakness and dizziness. This is due to damage to the large blood vessels and nerves that run through the spine. The brain receives insufficient amounts of nutrients and oxygen, which can cause dizziness. The pain spreads to the upper extremities, there is a feeling of weakness in the arms. Another obvious symptom of grade 3 osteochondrosis is loss of sensitivity in the fingers, as well as their tingling.

The main symptoms are:

• increasing pain
• cervical spine hernia
• very weak tendon reflexes
• paralysis of the upper extremities

Cervical osteochondrosis 4 degrees

The intervertebral discs have undergone major changes due to the destruction of cartilage tissue. In stage 4 of the disease, in 99% of cases, there are protrusions and tears that significantly affect the patient's condition. The body begins to recover independently and "builds" tissue in the damaged areas of the disc. As a result, the column itself loses its ability to move.

As nerves and blood vessels constrict, a person loses coordination of movements. Insomnia, apathy and pain only intensify. Patients often complain of disturbing tinnitus. In addition, stage 4 cervical osteochondrosis threatens with a number of the following consequences:

1. Cerebral ischemia, risk of developing stroke. This is due to the strong compression of the vertebral arteries.
2. Disorders of perception of the environment and systematic loss of consciousness. The reason is the narrowing of blood vessels and the lack of sufficient blood supply to the cerebral cortex.
3. Fatal outcome. Compression of the spinal cord can have catastrophic consequences.

The main symptoms are:

• depression of brain activity
• lack of coordination
• increased dizziness
• paralysis
• hearing and vision loss
• angina pectoris, shortness of breath

How to treat cervical osteochondrosis: the diagnostic stage

Before starting to eliminate the disease, doctors conduct a thorough examination of the patient's cervical spine. This is necessary to determine the presence and severity of the disease. Diagnosis consists of several stages:

1. x-ray. This is a visual way to determine the location of the vertebrae, as well as changes in their mobility.
2. Laboratory research. With the help of tests, doctors determine the disorders of the spine, as well as make a final diagnosis.
3. CT. This is a modern technique for assessing fractures and changes in height of intervertebral discs. Computed tomography also helps to monitor the instability of individual vertebrae.
4. MRT. The presented stage of the examination is performed to determine the condition of the nerve roots, the quality of blood circulation, as well as pathological changes in cartilage / bone structures.
5. Differential diagnostics. This includes ultrasound, cardiogram and a number of other procedures. They are necessary not to confuse osteochondrosis with other diseases with the same symptoms. These include diseases of the urinary system, all kinds of deformities of the spine, hip injuries, as well as disorders of the central nervous system.

Identification and treatment of symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis is not possible without a thorough diagnosis. The sooner it is done, the more effective the therapy will be. If you find symptoms of the disease, consult a doctor as soon as possible. He will make recommendations for meetings with narrower specialists: a neurologist and an orthopedist. In some cases, it may be necessary to consult a cardiologist if the symptoms of the disease coincide with the suspicion of angina pectoris or ischemia of the heart muscle.

Diagnosis and successful treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in modern clinics is based on the use of kinesitherapy. With the help of this treatment technique, patients significantly improve their health by performing a series of physical exercises on special simulators to recover.

The main methods of treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in women and men

High-quality and stable results in the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine can be achieved only with an integrated approach to the problem. The effectiveness of recovery depends largely on the patient's mood, which requires a complete rethinking of lifestyle, diet, sleep and wakefulness.

There is no way to independently treat osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in women and men, because the main symptoms of the disease may indicate the development of a completely different disease. Medications selected without a doctor's knowledge can seriously aggravate the condition. Even elemental administration of painkillers does not always have the expected effect, which once again proves the need to consult a specialist in advance.

Eliminate the aggravation of pain

The disease often manifests itself in the form of stabbing, aching and stabbing pain syndrome. The main task of the doctor is to alleviate your suffering, so first of all specialists prescribe:

• anti-inflammatory drugs;
• vitamins;
• painkillers;
• Chondroprotectors.

The latter category of drugs is aimed at the restoration of cartilage structures, which are especially important in the later stages of the disease. In addition, patients are prescribed medications to relieve muscle spasms and improve blood flow in the body.

Therapeutic gymnastics exercises

Physical therapists know how to get rid of cervical osteochondrosis in the most cost-effective way. Exercise therapy is one of the most effective treatments for osteochondrosis and can even be used at home. In this case, the intensity of training does not play a role. Regular physical activity will help you achieve results. The effect of the exercise is as follows:

1. Strengthen the muscles in the neck that are responsible for supporting weakened vertebrae.
2. Stimulation and normalization of blood supply in the body, which is especially important for the cerebral cortex.
3. Increased overall tone, energy load, productivity and ability to work.

Exercise therapy classes are allowed on a daily basis. The set of exercises includes all types of head rotation and bending. With the right level of physical fitness, the level of difficulty increases and hand movements are linked to work. The advantage of the elements of therapeutic gymnastics is that they can be used even in the workplace. But keep in mind that they can be performed only after the elimination of acute pain syndrome.

As an additional burden, doctors recommend that patients visit the pool, because swimming relieves stress on the spine and relieves stress on the intervertebral discs. Show and work light dumbbells to strengthen the shoulder girdle.

Physiotherapy

There are many methods of physiotherapy:

1. Electrophoresis.
2. Magneto, laser and shock wave therapy.
3. Mud therapy.
4. Medicinal baths and showers.

The above are the main therapeutic methods aimed only at restoring the blood supply to the affected spine, relieving inflammation, pain and slowing the process of cervical ossification.

Massage

Massage therapy for osteochondrosis of the spine is widespread throughout the world. However, this method should be used very carefully, because a rough and incompetent impact on the damaged parts of the neck can worsen the situation. You should consult your doctor before making an appointment with a masseur.

Due to the effect of the hands on the painful area, muscle tone is reduced, which helps to get rid of painful spasms. It also improves blood circulation, restores clarity of thought and the overall well-being of the patient.

Surgery

The final stage of the disease leads to the formation of severe intervertebral hernias, as well as narrowing of the lumen of the spine. In this case, treatment of the patient may require surgery. The surgeon decides whether surgery is necessary. It also defines a set of preparatory measures, the period of postoperative recovery and rehabilitation.

Most surgeries involve the removal of hernias, as well as the replacement of damaged vertebrae.

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in the clinic

Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in a professional clinic involves only the use of non-surgical methods. Specialists work on a unique technique based on the principles of kinesiotherapy. Patients who come to us for help are treated with a set of physical exercises in a specially equipped room.

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis takes place according to an individually developed program. The therapeutic effect applies not only to a specific part of the spine, but also to internal organs. The process of treatment without medication and surgery is difficult, but we provide comprehensive support to patients, helping them to be more determined and reconsider their attitude to their illness.

The treatment process consists of the following:

1. Exercises in the rehabilitation room at least 2-3 times a week.
2. Parterre therapeutic gymnastics.
3. Thermotherapy according to individual indications.
4. Pain reliever with ice massage.
5. Therapeutic / restorative massage.
6. Adaptive exercises for working at home.
7. Ultrasound micro-anatomical studies to monitor recovery over time.
8. Individual consultations with kinesitherapy clinic specialists.

Prevention of osteochondrosis

In the context of modern medicine, the treatment of cervical spine osteochondrosis involves many effective methods. However, it is better not to allow this problem to occur at all than to deal with it. There are a number of preventive measures that can minimize the risk of developing and developing a dangerous disease:

1. Take a hot shower for 10 minutes every day. A regular visit to the baths / saunas is also recommended. Keep in mind that these recommendations are only suitable for people who do not have a cardiovascular problem.
2. Go swimming and take regular walks in the fresh air at a comfortable pace. Physical inactivity is one of the main causes of musculoskeletal disorders.
3. Avoid excessive physical force to the best of your ability. This is especially true when working out in gyms. Critical axial loads on the spine cause protrusion.
4. Especially if you are over 30, try to avoid being stabbed in the back.
5. Review your diet. Try to exclude the consumption of confectionery, flour, moderate salt and sugar. Reducing the caloric content of foods allows you to lose weight, which puts additional stress on the spine.
6. If you work in the office and spend a lot of time on the computer, be sure to buy a special chair with back and neck support. Try to do basic warm-up exercises every 60 minutes.
7. If you feel pain after waking up, consider getting an orthopedic mattress and pillow. If possible, get a bed with a flat, hard surface.
8. To prevent degenerative and dystrophic changes in the cervical spine, consult a professional masseur at least 2-3 times a year. Neck and neck massage is one of the most effective preventive measures.
9. Women should minimize walking in high heels, as this interferes with the natural condition of the spine. With diagnosed flat feet, it is recommended to buy special shoes or padding, as orthopedic products improve the condition of the foot and relieve unnecessary stress on the spine.

As well as:

• you should visit the bath regularly
• you should give up bodybuilding, which can help remove the cervical disc
• Gentle exercise can be a good prevention of the disease

The result

Treatment of osteochondrosis in a professional clinic is carried out under the strict supervision of highly qualified specialists. Physicians follow an integrated approach to working with patients and even deal with advanced stages of the disease. If you see signs of osteochondrosis, you do not need to be patient, self-medicate and delay a visit to the doctor. Start your journey to a healthy, happy life!