Osteochondrosis is a common disease of the spine, characterized by degenerative changes in the structure of the cartilaginous tissue of the discs and bone base.The pathology manifests itself mainly after 30 years.
Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis can be different, which greatly complicates the process of diagnosis and subsequent treatment.
Features of the disease
The cervical region consists of vertebrae and nerve endings.Osteochondrosis of this area is formed during degeneration of the intervertebral nucleus.In this case, the ongoing pathology affects nerve endings and important blood vessels.
The disease disguises itself well as other diseases, since the symptoms of osteochondrosis are characterized by bouts of headaches, as well as the occurrence of significant discomfort in the neck.Patients complain of blood pressure problems and nausea.Many people tend to confuse these symptoms with heart and blood vessel diseases.
Often, against the background of ongoing problems, the patient suddenly begins to lose consciousness, there is shortness of breath and numbness in the tongue.The disease is diagnosed mainly in people over 30 years old, which is associated with constant dynamic and static loads.Recently, such 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.In the first phase, the nutrition of cartilaginous tissue is disturbed, resulting in the production of certain enzymes that have a destructive effect.The person feels great 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 cartilaginous tissue gradually wears out, as a result of which the vertebrae begin to touch each other, compressing the nerve endings.Painful sensations become more pronounced.It becomes very difficult for a person to work.
In the third degree, neoplasms and growths begin to form in the bone tissue.Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in this case manifest themselves in the form of severe pain.There is a metabolic disorder, so salts begin to be deposited 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, which are closely interconnected and are considered mainly together.
Physiological changes can be provoked by irreversible age-related processes in cartilaginous 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 teenagers and middle-aged people.
In some cases, osteochondrosis may disappear on its own or manifest itself in the form of short-term disorders.Among the main provoking factors, the following stand out:
- lack of regular physical activity;
- overweight;
- frequent stay in an uncomfortable position;
- incorrectly selected pillow or mattress;
- nervous overload;
- hypothermia;
- injuries to the back of the head 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 region.It is for this reason that the symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical and thoracic spine are associated with ischemia of certain areas of the brain.Furthermore, the nerve endings that provide motor activity and sensitivity of the shoulder girdle and upper limbs, when compressed by destroyed vertebrae, can cause various manifestations.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:
- disruption of 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 collar region.The location of the pain can be more generalized, causing severe migraines.The nature of the pain largely depends on the location of the injury and the severity of the pathology.In the early stages of the disease, discomfort may pass quickly, and gradually the pain becomes chronic and aching.During the period of exacerbation, the pain becomes acute, the tone of the neck muscles increases and there is restriction in head movements.
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 decreased blood flow.
Also among the main features are the following:
- dizziness,
- pressure changes,
- shortness of breathe,
- 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 body's balance.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 shortness of breath or asthma attacks.
Lack of oxygen associated with breathing problems is the main cause of increased fatigue, decreased attention and memory problems.In some cases, there may be nausea, 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 deterioration in visual acuity.However, such a violation occurs very rarely.It is worth noting that performing therapeutic exercises and wearing glasses do not give the desired result, and vision improves only after osteochondrosis treatment.
Unstable pressure is caused by impaired blood circulation in the area of the brain responsible for the functioning of the motor-vascular center.In some cases, a slight increase in temperature and local redness of the skin may be observed.
It is very important to promptly recognize the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis.A feeling of discomfort and pain does not always occur, therefore it is important to carry out a complete examination and competent treatment in a timely manner.It is important to note that each patient experiences a characteristic crunching and clicking sound when moving the neck, and it is by this sign that the course of the pathology can be recognized.
Carrying out diagnostics
If symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis occur, treatment must be started immediately, therefore it is advisable to immediately consult a neurologist.To establish the cause of the existing symptoms, a comprehensive examination is necessary.
During an examination with neurological examinations, the doctor assesses 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, the following stand out:
- 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 cartilaginous structures, but it is possible to significantly improve the quality of life and get rid of chronic pain.It is very important to monitor the course of the disease to adjust the treatment program if necessary and predict possible improvements or complications.
Features of treatment
Regardless of the symptoms, the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is carried out using conservative methods and is always comprehensive.It is mandatory to use medications, especially:
- anti-inflammatory medications,
- analgesics,
- corticosteroids,
- muscle relaxants,
- vitamin complexes.
In severe cases, novocaine blockades are prescribed in the area of greatest pain.Sometimes the introduction of hormonal agents may be indicated.In addition, local treatment is indicated, which involves the use of warming 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 gap 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.
Therapy can be complemented with the use of a Shants orthopedic collar.Due to the strong fixation of the cervical vertebrae, treatment is carried out much faster.This device allows you to quickly deal with painful sensations, normalize blood circulation in the neck and improve the patient's general well-being.
Drug therapy
Depending on the symptoms of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis, drug treatment is selected individually.Therapy is aimed at eliminating pain, inflammation, as well as returning normal mobility to the vertebrae and blood circulation.
Among the main groups of medicines, the following stand out:
- analgesics;
- anti-inflammatory;
- chondroprotectors;
- muscle relaxants;
- vitamin complexes.
Products for external use are needed, which can be used in the form of ointments and gels.They help to 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 medications are needed.
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 set of measures includes the following methods of influence:
- spine stretching,
- massage,
- physiotherapeutic influence.
Spinal traction 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, mainly using special tables.
The massage gives very good results.This procedure normalizes blood circulation, nutrition and gas exchange in cartilaginous tissue.In addition, with the help of massage you can eliminate muscle tension and spasms, as well as 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 the body's 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 occur, home treatment involves the use of medicinal baths to quickly eliminate pain and inflammation.Furthermore, they help to relax the spine.Water procedures should be carried out 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 suitable 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 quickly help eliminate the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, but before using any means and techniques, you should consult a doctor to avoid complications.
Preventing
The best form of prevention is a healthy lifestyle, as well as posture formation from childhood.For prevention purposes, it is recommended:
- nutritional adjustments;
- use of a pillow and orthopedic mattress to sleep;
- gentle lifting of weights.
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 proceeds 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 protrusions;
- vegetative-vascular dystonia;
- neurological disorders.
To prevent the development of complications, you must strictly follow all your doctor's recommendations.Getting rid of discomfort early is much easier than treating an advanced disease.It is also important not to forget prevention and prevent poor posture in the child.Folk remedies help in the fight against the disease, but you should not completely trust them and refuse drug treatment.This can lead to an exacerbation of the problem when surgical intervention is necessary.