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 punishment for bipedalism. Changes of this type are observed in most people in the age group of 25-40 years and above.
The structure of the cervical spine includes seven vertebrae C1-C7, connected by an elastic tissue of intervertebral discs. In the arch there are seven processes connected to each other, and blood vessels and nerve endings pass through their small holes. With a disease, the disc loses strength and elasticity.
The main purpose of an X-ray of the cervical spine is to rule out spondylitis, osteoporosis or tumors.
If osteochondrosis is described on radiographs, this has no significant 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 prone to osteochondrosis are adults. On average, only 15% of cases are in patients under 30 years old. For people from 30 to 49 years old, the problem with cervical vertebrae appears in 65% of cases. Over the years, there have been more and more complaints about this disease due to the sedentary lifestyle of many workers.
| how are you doing | age of women | Men's age |
|---|---|---|
| It does not progress | 58 | 65 |
| Slowly progressing | 46 | 46 |
| progress quickly | 49 | fifty |
The ratio of severity and dynamics of the disease is approximately the same in men and women (~ 50/50). The ages are also almost identical. The difference is only for the group in which the disease does not progress - it is noted that the average age of men in this case is 7 years older.
| the inhabitants of the city | rustic | Brain work | Physical work | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| It does not progress | 41 | 56 | 55 | 55 |
| Slowly progressing | 31 | 31 | 29 | 28 |
| progress quickly | 28 | fourteen | fifteen | 17 |
It is also noted 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 in the intervertebral discs in the cervical region.
It is manifested by pain, general weakness, numbness in the arms and neck, sometimes tinnitus.
To determine the degree of cartilage tissue damage and the involvement of vessels and nerves in the process, X-ray, CT, MRI and other studies are performed.
Medical and physiotherapeutic treatment, lifestyle correction.
List of causes that contribute to malnutrition of the intervertebral disc:
- physical inactivity or a sedentary lifestyle;
- improper metabolism;
- salt deposits;
- unbalanced diet;
- sedentary work, including driving a vehicle or working at a computer;
- obesity;
- violation of standing;
- depression, stress, overload;
- viral diseases in a chronic form;
- immediate cessation of training in athletes or incorrect movements during physical exercise;
- injury;
- genetic predisposition;
- Childbirth;
- violation in the formation of bone tissue of the spine;
- hypothermia;
- weight lifting;
- flat feet.
This list can be supplemented, it all depends on the individual characteristics of development, lifestyle and the presence of concomitant diseases.
The rate of development of intervertebral disc pathology
The pathology develops gradually and has 4 degrees in total:
1 degree
Signs of disease manifestation 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, a slight muscle tension is observed in the neck-collar area.
2 degrees
The pain in this case is stronger than in the description above. And they can be inserted into the arm or shoulder area. This manifestation is provoked by the decrease in the height of the spinal disc and damage to the nerve endings in it.
The pain is noticed when you turn or tilt your head. At the same time, the patient's working capacity decreases, headache attacks appear, general weakness of the body.
3 degrees
The pain becomes stronger, numbness of 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 damage to the artery that feeds the cerebellum and the back of the head. In the fourth stage of the disease, the pain in the neck decreases significantly due to the regeneration of the cartilage tissue, but the compressed nerve endings remain.
The pain syndrome is not always associated with the presence of protrusions, hernias in the spine, more often it is non-specific back pain.
Symptoms
The pain can appear in different parts of the body, so special examinations should be performed. For example, pain can occur in the eyeball area, in the nerves of the teeth or in the ears. In some cases, they can spread to the shoulders, arms, shoulder blades and lower back.
Pains in the heart muscle are not excluded, they can easily be confused with heart diseases. If you use drugs that help eliminate pain from heart failure, then they will not be useful.
Due to cervical osteochondrosis, arteries can be compressed (which is extremely rare and only with massive osteophytes or large hernias) that feed the brain with blood, so dizziness, noise in the head, nausea, headache, loss oforientation, reduced visual function can appear and hear.
| Place of manifestation | characteristic feeling |
|---|---|
| Cervix | Pain and dizziness, it is difficult to breathe, hearing and vision deteriorate, hoarseness appears, hands become numb. |
| lumbar | Lower back pain - sharp or dull, trouble sweating, 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 you bend over and breathe. |
After a long time in a vertical position of the body and a sharp rise, severe dizziness may appear. The fingers, toes and tip of the nose are often cold.
Each case is individual, and before prescribing drugs, an examination must be done.
Syndromes with cervical osteochondrosis
A syndrome is a group that combines several clinical features. The following varieties are distinguished.
Cardiac
The symptoms are similar to the picture that manifests itself in heart failure, as well as a condition that precedes a heart attack. This category includes:
- burning and pain in the chest;
- increased fatigue;
- dyspnea;
- general weakness;
- frequent heartbeats.
Functional tests and electrocardiography are used to distinguish cervical osteochondrosis from heart disease.
Vertebral
Such a syndrome indicates the relationship of the pathological condition with cartilage and the body of bone tissue. It includes three main symptoms:
- sorenessduring neck bends;
- changes inROOMbetween the vertebrae and their body;
- violationmobilityin the neck area.
These characteristics are directly related to each other. If any of the symptoms are absent, then we are not talking about vertebral syndrome.
Vertebral artery
It shows the connection between the pathological processes and the arteries that feed the brain tissue. The syndrome includes the following symptoms that are directly related to the dysfunction of blood circulation in the brain:
- nerve irritationconclusion, 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;
- flawoxygen, is 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 conduction disorder:
- 1-2 pairs- pain in the back of the head;
- the third- difficulty in chewing food, numbness of the tongue;
- fourth- hiccups, pain in the clavicle;
- the fifth- Difficulty in moving the shoulder joint;
- sixth- discomfort in the forearm and shoulder blades;
- seventh- numbness of the middle and index fingers in the upper limbs;
- the eighth- violation of the mobility of the little fingers and the ring on the hands.
Since in most cases several couples are involved in the pathological process at once, mixed symptoms are observed.
Diagnosing
To diagnose the presence of the disease, an analysis of the patient's lifestyle, including his professional activity, is first performed. Summarize information about symptoms. In addition, a study is conducted on the presence of a similar pathology among family members to determine hereditary predisposition factors.
Next, a direct examination of the neck and back in various positions is performed so that changes in posture and apparent disc locations can be determined. Painful areas and places of muscle tension are felt. But these are only external examinations, and a more detailed picture can be drawn only with the help of instrumental methods.
X-ray of the cervical spine
The information content of this method for the diagnosis of 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 places of compression of the spinal cord.
MRI
This method is more progressive, compared to the previous two. With it, you can make a detailed conclusion about the size, location and structure of intervertebral changes.
Duplex ultrasound scan
It is used for suspected changes in blood flow in the vertebral arteries, including its speed and the presence of obstructions.
Rheoencephalography or REG
This examination aims to study the normal blood supply and blood flow from the brain. Currently, it is rarely described 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, as a rule, drugs are prescribed to relieve pain, 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:
- kneadingmuscles - deep external impact, grasping the fold, squeezing and relatively strong pressure;
- lightvibration- knocking and shaking;
- trituration- a small application of effort to apply friction in the state of muscle heating;
- stroking- movements are smooth without using effort;
- squeezing- Easy pressure and release.
With the help of manual therapy, you can get rid of chronic pain and correct your posture. Its direction is to warm the muscles, relieve tension, restore the normal functions of the joints, and with a sharp effect on the pathogenic areas, the restoration of the cervical vertebrae occurs.
Acupuncture - this method stimulates 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 exercise therapy, strong inclinations and rotations of the head should not be used. Movements in which the joints are in their original position are allowed.
There are a number of effective exercises for osteochondrosis of the cervical region.
First
Lie on your stomach, rest your hands on the floor. Lift your head and torso. The back forms a straight line. In this position, you should stay for about two minutes. Then slowly take the starting position. The number of repetitions is not more than 3.
Secondly
Sit and lean forward while breathing. In this case, the head should touch the chest. During exhalation, the head is bent and bent back. You should 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, the exercise should be stopped.
Exercise therapy is allowed only in the absence of an aggravation of the pathology. The best effect is achieved during recovery.
The absence of pain and discomfort will indicate the correct use of the complex.
Orthopedic pillows
As a rule, in most cases a person is in a sitting position. As a result, back pain begins to appear. The rest of the spine is possible only at night during sleep. Therefore, it is important to choose the right pillow.
Orthopedic articles for sleep help to reduce stress and normalize the physiological position of the spine at night.
Before choosing a pillow, you should consult your doctor. An experienced specialist will choose the most suitable options, taking into account the rigidity, the presence of rollers along the edges, provided for placement under the neck.
If a person is overweight, a pillow with a cutout for the shoulders may be recommended.
To get the maximum effect, it is also important to consider the following criteria:
- Size. If a person is used to sleeping on his back, the optimal height will be 9 cm. If on his stomach, then less.
- diplomarigidity. You should also consider your preferred sleeping position here. If you sleep on your stomach most of the time, a softer product will work; on the back, it is better to choose a firm pillow.
- forms. For rest at night, doctors advise to take a rectangular model. For a short break, 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
This is a device consisting of a fabric base and an elastic material on which riveted plastic plates are fixed. Additionally, the kit may include magnetic stripe inserts.
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
- CUPPainfulback syndrome;
- normalizationBlood circulation;
- IMPROVEMENTmobilityjoints;
- revitalizationmetabolic processes in tissues.
The main contraindications for use:
- CHRONICdiseases;
- pregnancy;
- oncologicpathology;
- epilepticattacks;
- tendency tobloodshed;
- cardiaclung disease and injury.
The therapeutic course lasts 14-21 days in accordance with all the prescriptions of the attending physician. Use the device only in a well-ventilated area.
diets
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 food restrictions. The menu provides for the use of a variety of healthy foods. In each case, the value of energy per day is calculated individually. It is important that proteins, fats, carbohydrates and fibers are constantly present in the diet.
To prevent tissue dehydration, it is recommended to drink at least 1. 5 liters of clean water per day. In summer, the daily rate increases significantly.
In addition, salt intake should be reduced. Its excessive amount in the body contributes to the appearance of edema and burdens the vascular system. No more than 5 grams of this product per day is allowed.
It is also recommended to reduce the consumption of starch and sugar.
All dishes are steamed, in the oven, with stew.
Prohibited Products
Patients with cervical osteochondrosis will have to give up a large amount of coffee, pastries and sweet products.
You should completely exclude from the diet:
- dried fish;
- carbonated drinks;
- pickles;
- canned food and sausages;
- sweets;
- fatty soup;
- nutritional supplements.
In addition, strong tea, sweet grapes, spicy dishes, marinades and smoked meat are prohibited.
Complications and consequences
Pain from cervical osteochondrosis is not yet a serious symptom of the disease. But if you do not respond to them in time and do not take any action, then later there may be irreversible processes. The most dangerous disease resulting from displacement or herniation of vertebral discs can be cardiovascular pathologies.
When you squeeze the arteries passing through the spine, the cerebral circulation is disturbed and, accordingly, 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 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 discovered that its origin is often provoked by an unhealthy lifestyle, malnutrition, as well as stress and increased stress on the body. Therefore, it is recommended that if small signs appear, contact your doctor to avoid their development into a more serious pathology.
prevention
Preventive measures to prevent such a disease must be different. Experts recommend:
- sleepon a medium firm mattress and a low pillow;
- visit periodicallyBATH Aor a sauna. This helps relieve muscle tension;
- take every dayshowerwith hot water;
- walk moreon foot, swim or do yoga exercises;
- nottwiston sides of head rough;
- after work forcomputerat the end of each hour, rest for five minutes, while working with your hands, making small turns of the torso, not forgetting to maintain your posture;
- INsitting downwork to keep your back straight;
- choose 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 food 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 per day and completely exclude alcoholic beverages and smoking. The preparation of salads is recommended with olive oil.
The following foods should be included in the nutritional diet:
- rabbit meat,Chickenor lean beef
- TOMATOand cucumbers, cabbage, beets, avocados, celery, spinach, lettuce, peppers, carrots and onions;
- leancheeses, cottage cheese and milk;
- the fish, squid, crab and oysters;
- aspicand jelly;
- SEEDSunflower, almonds and hazelnuts;
- CROPS, eggs and mushrooms.
It is recommended to exclude from the diet or limit the amount of consumption:
- fat soups;
- beans;
- beans;
- grapes;
- smoked meat;
- flour products and spicy dishes.
For preventive purposes, you can perform simple physical exercises:
- lie down onstomachand rest your hands on the floor. Then raise your head slowly and carefully and fix this position for a minute. After returning to the starting position. So repeat 3 or 4 times.
- Lying on the stomach, handsadjustalong the body, then gently turn the head to the right. Return to the starting position and also turn your head to the left. Repeat on both sides 5 times.
- Sitting in a chairleave in the mudhead until the chin touches the body. Do this exercise while exhaling. Then take the starting position. After inhaling the air from your lungs, tilt your head back. Repeat the exercise - 10 times.
- Roll itturn 4 times clockwise and counterclockwise, but if the state of health allows it.
Complexes of exercises can be different, a medical worker will help you choose them.
In any case, before performing gymnastics, it is necessary to consult a specialist and if during the exercises you feel dizzy or feel pain, then they should be stopped and consult your doctor.
Answers to common questions
Which doctor treats?
At the first signs of the development of pathology, you should contact a therapist who, after an initial examination, will refer you to a neurologist (he is the one who treats problems of the nervous system), a radiologist and a specialist in tomography. The vertebrologist performs the subsequent diagnosis and prescribes the treatment. An osteopath will help determine the location of the lesion.
What pillow to sleep 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 a tantrum last?
The duration of an attack is on average 2-5 days. However, after this period, for another 2-3 weeks, the patient will experience discomfort in the affected area of the spine region. Thus, the deterioration phase can last from several days to several months.
How long should you lie in the needle applicator?
With cervical osteochondrosis, one session lasts no more than 7 minutes. At the same time, every 60 seconds you need to slightly change the position of your head and back. It is necessary to carry out 2-3 procedures per day.