Among the many known diseases, the most
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system are common and are mainly associated with physical inactivity. Moreover, such problems are inherent not only in the elderly, but also in the young. Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine occupies a special place among the pathologies affecting the musculoskeletal system. What is this disease? What does it threaten its owner with? How does it manifest itself? Are there effective prevention and treatment measures?
Cervical osteochondrosis is a progressive degenerative-dystrophic disease, accompanied by deformation of the intervertebral discs. It requires immediate treatment to prevent irreversible pathological changes. Among the various forms of osteochondrosis, cervical pathology takes second place, second only to damage to the lumbosacral region.
Stages of the disease
The development of cervical osteochondrosis occurs in stages:
- First stage. The intervertebral discs begin to collapse: cracks appear in the fibrous ring, the disc loses strength and elasticity, and becomes smaller in height. As a result, the nerve roots are compressed, which is accompanied by aching pain.
- Second phase. Destruction of the disc continues, leading to small dislocations of the vertebrae. The pain sensations intensify and become permanent. Head dropping syndrome can occur, which is characterized by severe pain that forces the head to be held in a fixed position.
- Third stage. The fibrous ring is almost completely destroyed, which leads to protrusions and intervertebral hernia. In this case, the pain may subside, as there is no source of pain - cartilage tissue. But the pain syndrome does not completely go away, as the nerve roots remain pinched. Possible violation of sensitivity, the appearance of headache and dizziness, nausea, "low back pain" in the neck.
In the first stage, the disease is successfully treated. In the second and third stages irreversible changes occur. Therefore, it will not be possible to fully restore the body.
Causes of pathological changes
The vertebrae located in the cervical spine are the most mobile. They are small in size and have weak muscles. This structure of the vertebrae contributes to the development of degenerative diseases. In addition, the cervical region is saturated with nerves and blood vessels, the damage of which not only causes unpleasant symptoms, but also causes serious complications.
The main factors leading to the development of cervical osteochondrosis include:
- sedentary lifestyle;
- prolonged stay in the same position;
- disruptions in metabolism;
- salt deposits;
- poor nutrition.
The risk of developing the disease increases with:
- hereditary predisposition;
- old age;
- neck injury;
- prolonged or regular hypothermia of the body;
- hormonal imbalance;
- obesity;
- Autoimmune diseases;
- chronic diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
Symptoms of the disease
The development of cervical osteochondrosis is slow. Symptoms of the disease depend on the number of affected vertebrae, the degree of damage and the presence of pinched nerves.
The main symptom of the pathology is pain of varying intensity in the neck, which radiates to the back of the head, ears, shoulders, forearms, chest. They are amplified by turning the head and with minimal physical exertion.
In addition to pain, with cervical osteochondrosis:
- headache and heartache appear;
- dizziness;
- darkens in the eyes;
- hands and feet are numb;
- you feel tinnitus;
- the tongue becomes numb;
- visual acuity and hearing are impaired;
- a sharp turn of the head causes loss of consciousness;
- there is rapid fatigue;
- coordination is disturbed.
Several syndromes of cervical osteochondrosis are known:
- radicular - pinching of nerve endings leads to severe pain in the neck, radiating to the shoulders, forearms, shoulder blades and lower back;
- cardiac - the root of the pectoral muscle or phrenic nerve is damaged, causing symptoms similar to a heart attack: prolonged pain in the chest area (do not go away when taking nitroglycerin), which increase with movement and deep breathing;
- vertebral artery - throbbing pain develops in the back of the head and temples;
- irritative reflex - burning pain occurs in the neck area, radiating to the shoulders and chest area, aggravated by coughing and turning the head.
Possible complications
Cervical osteochondrosis can cause significant damage to the body. It is especially dangerous due to the fact that the deformed vertebrae damage the nerve roots and blood vessels that carry blood to the brain. As a result, the brain does not receive the required amount of oxygen and nutrients, which can cause disability and even death, as heart activity and respiratory function are impaired.
If treatment is not required, the disease can lead to a number of complications: vertebral artery syndrome, protrusion, herniated disc, spinal stroke, cerebral ischemia. Often, cervical osteochondrosis causes radiculopathy. In this case, growths are formed on the damaged vertebrae, as a result of which the body partially or completely loses sensitivity and mobility.
But the most dangerous compression of the spinal cord, leading to death.
Therefore, timely treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is important, which will help to avoid many problems.
Diagnostics
To establish a diagnosis, the patient is referred for an instrumental examination:
- radiography;
- duplex scanning;
- ultrasound dopplerography;
- magnetic or computerized resonance.
Diagnostic measures will provide information on the location and extent of damage.
First aid
In case the patient experiences unbearable pain, pain relievers (metamizole sodium, etc. ) will come to the rescue. If they cannot get rid of pain, they resort to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (diclofenac, ibuprofen, nimesulide). But they cannot be taken for a long time, as they have a negative effect on the intestines.
Anesthetic ointments with a warming effect and a pepper patch can effectively relieve pain.
If the patient's limbs become numb, massage and special exercises are recommended that activate blood circulation.
For edema, diuretics are taken.
But all of the above funds can only have a temporary effect. Therefore, you should not postpone the visit to the doctor to prevent the development of complications.
Methods of treatment
In order for the fight against the disease to be successfully crowned, it is necessary:
- relieve pain syndrome;
- remove swelling;
- restore blood flow;
- strengthen the muscle corset;
- improve tissue nutrition and ensure their regeneration.
Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis should be comprehensive and include:
- pharmacological therapy;
- Physiotherapy;
- physiotherapy exercises;
- methods of alternative and traditional medicine;
- diet.
Pharmacological treatment involves the intake of:
- anti-inflammatory drugs: relieve inflammation, relieve pain, activate blood circulation;
- muscle relaxants - relieve muscle spasms;
- chondroprotector - restores cartilage tissue;
- Vitamins of group B: both oral and intramuscular administration are possible.
Physiotherapeutic procedures have an effective effect on cervical osteochondrosis:
- magnetotherapy;
- electrophoresis;
- water therapy;
- paraffin therapy.
Effective help in the fight against the disease will be provided by non-traditional methods (osteopathy, homeopathy, reflexology, hirudotherapy), massage, manual therapy and special exercises. They stimulate blood circulation, relieve muscle tension, which has a beneficial effect on the general condition of the body. But it is necessary to engage in physiotherapy exercises under the supervision of a specialist, otherwise the opposite effect can be achieved.
In addition to drug treatment (but not instead of), it is recommended to use folk remedies.
For 3-4 months, you need to follow a strict diet:
- refuse products containing cholesterol: animal fats, fatty meat;
- limit the consumption of sugar, salt, flour products;
- exclude alcoholic beverages.
Prophylaxis
An active lifestyle and weight loss are essential for preventive measures. A diet that contains the necessary vitamins and minerals is of no small importance.
The sleeping mattress should be firm and the pillow low.
When working sedentary, be sure to take breaks.
People who are prone to osteochondrosis need to periodically visit an orthopedist.