Osteochondrosis is a common disease of the spine, characterized by degenerative changes in the structure of the cartilaginous tissue of the discs and the bone base.The pathology manifests itself mainly after 30 years.
Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis can be different, which significantly complicates the diagnosis process and subsequent treatment.
Characteristics of the disease
The cervical region is made up of vertebrae and nerve endings.Osteochondrosis of this area is formed during the degeneration of the intervertebral nucleus.In this case, the ongoing pathology affects nerve endings and important blood vessels.
The disease is well masked by other ailments, since the symptoms of osteochondrosis are characterized by attacks of headaches and the appearance of significant discomfort in the neck.Patients complain of blood pressure problems and nausea.Many people often confuse such symptoms with diseases of the heart and blood vessels.
Often, against the background of ongoing problems, the patient suddenly begins to lose consciousness, there is lack of air and numbness of the tongue.The disease is diagnosed mainly in people over 30 years of age, which is associated with constant dynamic and static loads.Recently, such disorders have also been observed in adolescents.
Degrees of development
Symptoms and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis largely depend on the degree of development of the disease.In the first stage, the nutrition of the cartilage tissue is interrupted, resulting in the production of certain enzymes that have a destructive effect.The person feels severe discomfort.Daily morning exercises will help get rid of such symptoms.
In the second stage, the harmful effects of pathological enzymes steadily 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, pinching the nerve endings.Painful sensations become more pronounced.It becomes very difficult for a person to work.
At the third degree, tumors and growths begin to form on the bone tissue.Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in this case manifest themselves in the form of intense pain.There is a metabolic disorder, so salts begin to settle on 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 related and are mainly considered together.
Physiological changes can be caused by age-related irreversible processes in cartilage tissue.Discomfort occurs when nerve endings are irritated.Pathological changes occur due to poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle.In most cases, such disorders occur in adolescents and middle-aged people.
In some cases, osteochondrosis can disappear on its own or manifest itself in the form of short-term disorders.Among the main provoking factors, the following should be highlighted:
- lack of regular physical activity;
- excess weight;
- 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
In the neck area there are numerous vessels and nerve endings.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.In addition, the nerve endings that provide motor activity and sensitivity of the shoulder girdle and upper extremities, when compressed by the 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 signals can be identified:
- blood microcirculation disorder 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, back of the head and collar area.The location of the pain may be more widespread, causing severe migraines.The nature of the pain largely depends on the location of the lesion and the severity of the pathology.In the initial stages of the disease, the discomfort can pass quickly, and gradually the pain becomes chronic and aching.During the period of exacerbation, the pain becomes excruciating, the tone of the neck muscles increases, and a restriction in head movements is observed.
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 these manifestations are associated with a decrease in blood flow.
Furthermore, the main features include the following:
- dizziness,
- pressure changes,
- lack of air,
- 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 balance of the body.Lack of air can occur due to irritation of the nerve endings involved in regulating the respiratory process.Patients often complain of being unable to 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 nausea may occur, caused by poor circulation in some areas of the brain.It can sometimes be accompanied by vomiting, loss of appetite and weight loss.
Symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine are manifested in the form of deterioration of visual acuity.However, such a violation occurs quite rarely.It is worth noting that performing therapeutic exercises and wearing glasses do not give the required result, and vision improves only after treatment of osteochondrosis.
Unstable pressure is caused by impaired blood circulation in the area of the brain responsible for the functioning of the vascular-motor center.In some cases, a slight increase in temperature and local redness of the skin may be observed.
It is very important to timely recognize the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis.The feeling of discomfort and pain does not always occur, which is why it is important to carry out a comprehensive examination and competent treatment in a timely manner.It is worth noting that each patient feels a characteristic creaking sound and clicks when moving his neck, and it is by this sign that the course of the pathology can be recognized.
Perform diagnostics
If symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis appear, treatment should be started immediately, which is why it is advisable to immediately consult a neurologist.To establish the cause of existing symptoms, a comprehensive examination is necessary.
During the examination with neurological tests, the doctor evaluates 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 should be highlighted:
- x-ray of the cervical vertebrae,
- discography,
- tomography,
- myelography,
- Doppler ultrasound.
All 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 eliminate 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.
Characteristics of the treatment
Regardless of the symptoms, treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is carried out using conservative methods and is always comprehensive.The use of drugs is required, in particular:
- anti-inflammatory drugs,
- analgesics,
- corticosteroids,
- muscle relaxants,
- vitamin complexes.
In severe cases, novocaine blocks 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 physical therapy have a good effect.Such techniques allow you to very quickly and effectively strengthen the neck muscles.However, their use is possible only after the acute period has subsided.
To increase the distance between the vertebrae, hardware traction of the spine is indicated.In severe cases, surgical intervention is necessary, but there must be appropriate indications for this.
The therapy can be integrated by wearing a Shants orthopedic collar.Due to the strong fixation of the cervical vertebrae, the 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 overall well-being of the patient.
Drug therapy
Depending on the symptoms of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis, treatment with drugs is selected individually.Therapy is aimed at eliminating pain, inflammation, as well as restoring normal mobility of the vertebrae and blood circulation.
Among the main groups of drugs the following should be highlighted:
- 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 drugs 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 physical therapy and the use of medications, the range of measures includes the following methods of influence:
- lengthening of the spine,
- massage,
- physiotherapy 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 several ways, in particular using special tables.
The massage gives excellent results.This procedure normalizes blood circulation, nutrition and gas exchange of cartilage tissue.Also, with the help of massage you can eliminate muscle tension and spasms and get rid of pain.
Physiotherapy effects involve the use of various means, such as:
- laser exposure,
- magnetic field,
- ultrasound,
- low frequency current.
In some cases the drugs are also used in combination with physiotherapy, which increases their effectiveness and avoids the appearance of side effects.
Acupuncture allows you to improve or slightly slow down processes in the body by influencing biologically active points.The maximum 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 relax the spine.Water procedures should be done 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 the 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 help quickly eliminate the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, but before using any means and techniques, you should definitely consult a doctor to prevent complications.
Carry out prevention
The best way of prevention is a healthy lifestyle, as well as posture training from childhood.For prevention purposes it is recommended:
- nutritional adjustments;
- use of orthopedic pillow and mattress for sleeping;
- regular weight lifting.
The initial form of the disease generally does not have pronounced symptoms.If you experience aching pain in the sternum area, you should immediately consult a doctor.
Possible complications
With timely diagnosis and adequate treatment, osteochondrosis of the cervical spine occurs 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 bumps;
- vegetative-vascular dystonia;
- neurological disorders.
To prevent the development of complications, you must strictly follow all recommendations of your doctor.Getting rid of unpleasant sensations at an early stage is much easier than treating an advanced disease.It is also important not to forget about prevention and prevent bad posture of the child.Folk remedies help in the fight against the disease, but you should not completely rely on them and refuse drug treatment.This can lead to an exacerbation of the problem when surgery is necessary.