Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis

11 August 2022

Cervical osteochondrosis is a degenerative and dystrophic disease of one of the sections of the spine. With the development of the disease, the intervertebral discs in the neck suffer the most, and damage also extends to the articular surfaces, ligaments, and vertebrae. Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine depends on the current stage of the disease. Pathology mainly occurs in patients over the age of 30, but cases are also recorded in young people, especially if a person leads an unhealthy lifestyle and is at risk.

The most common symptom is severe pain in the neck, which can spread down the spine, move to the upper limbs, deform into a severe headache. Below we will look at what symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine are better to start treatment, find out the causes of the disease and the methods that are used to combat the problem.

Causes and risk factors

The main reason for the development of osteochondrosis in humans is the ability to walk upright acquired with evolution. When walking, the vertebrae put excessive pressure on each other. Every year this leads to the fact that the amount of intervertebral fluid and connective tissue between the vertebrae decreases, as a result, the bones begin to rub against each other, causing severe pain.

The longer osteochondrosis of the cervical region develops without the necessary treatment, the less chance to stop degenerative processes. In old age, it is almost impossible to restore connective tissue.

Cervical osteochondrosis in old age is a predominantly natural process that is not associated with the influence of external factors. If the problem begins to develop at an early age, if the pain intensifies too quickly, it is necessary to look for the cause of such a violation.

The development of cervical osteochondrosis at an early age is most often due to the following factors:

Lack of physical activity in daily life. In the modern world, a person leads a predominantly sedentary lifestyle - he works in the office all day, spends time in the evening sitting on the couch or at the computer, often drives a car;
In the process of performing work tasks, the human body often takes on an unnatural, tense position (a strong forward deviation when working at a computer);
Excessive sports. The opposite reason is playing sports with uncontrolled loads. The problem is faced not only by ordinary citizens, but also by professional athletes;
The reasons that provoke the spine to be in the wrong position are flat feet, wearing uncomfortable shoes with heels, scoliosis, arthritis, etc . ;
Abuse of junk food, obesity;
Severe hypothermia of the cervical spine;
Nervous strain - frequent stress in everyday life and at work, lack of proper sleep at night.

Vertebral syndrome

The complex of symptoms is associated with damage to the bones and cartilage of the spinal column. It includes:

impaired mobility in the cervical region;
pain when turning the head;
X-ray signs of damage to the vertebrae themselves and the space between them.

vertebral artery syndrome

Symptoms are caused by narrowing or spasm of the vertebral arteries, which are partially responsible for the blood supply to the brain. It manifests itself with the following symptoms:

noise in ears;
dizziness;
jumps in blood pressure;
nausea and vomiting;
headache;
visual impairment;
decrease in working capacity;
drowsiness;
fainting.

cardiac syndrome

It resembles a condition with damage to the heart muscle and includes:

pain or burning sensation behind the breastbone;
weakness and fatigue;
rapid pulse.

radicular syndrome

The condition is associated with damage (compression or pinching) of the nerve roots emerging from the spinal column in the cervical region. Depending on the level of damage, a person may experience:

numbness or pain in the back of the head;
numbness of the tongue;
collarbone pain, difficulty swallowing, hiccups;
discomfort in the shoulder area, aggravated by hand movements;
pain in the shoulder blades and forearms;
numbness of the index and middle fingers;
numbness of the ring finger and little finger.

Most often, several nerve roots are involved in the pathological process at once, as a result of which several characteristic symptoms are observed at once.

Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis

All of these risk factors and lifestyle features lead to the fact that the intervertebral discs in the cervical region are undernourished. If the problem is not identified and corrected, the discs will begin to gradually collapse, the distance between them will decrease, as a result, this will lead to constant friction of the bones against each other. As the connective tissue is depleted, bone growths begin to form on the spines, which are prone to uncontrolled growth. In advanced cases, the growths begin to put pressure on the surrounding tissues, blood vessels, nerves that are located in the cervical spine.

Cervical osteochondrosis does not develop instantly, in the absence of proper treatment of the symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, the problem is aggravated. The entire course of the disease can be divided into 4 stages. The symptoms that the patient faces are directly dependent on the current stage of the problem. Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis include:

Discomfort in the neck that extends to the shoulder area;
The appearance of pain in the cervical region during sports;
Stiffness when turning the neck;
Private headaches that are not caused by external factors;
When you change the position of the head, you can hear a characteristic crunch;
Numbness and loss of sensitivity of some areas in the skin of the back of the head, shoulders, arms, neck;
Hypoxia of trophodependent organs;
Development of pathologies of the circulatory system;
Severe pain leads to complete immobilization of the upper shoulder girdle.

The further the disease has advanced, the more discomfort the patient experiences. In the last stages of the problem, the patient's quality of life deteriorates significantly. Common symptoms for all stages of the problem include headache, ringing or noise in the ears, visual defects, nausea and vomiting with a sharp change in head position.

Diagnosis of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it is advisable to seek immediate medical attention. The sooner a problem is diagnosed, the more likely it is to be completely fixed. A neurologist is engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis of the spine.

After the patient's appeal, the neurologist will interview the patient and, based on his complaints, will conclude that the disease is present. Most often, patients complain of pain, discomfort, problems with the movement of the upper limbs. After the interview, the doctor will conduct a visual examination of the patient. Will be evaluated:

correct posture;
At what angle are the shoulder blades, shoulders and iliac bones;
Location of the line of spinous processes along the length of the spine.

A visual examination allows you to determine what pathological processes have begun in the spine, how much they have affected the spine and surrounding tissues.

The final diagnosis is not made only on the basis of examination and questioning of the patient. Additional examinations are required. Most often, the patient is sent for x-rays, computed tomography. If for one reason or another it is impossible to make a final diagnosis, the patient is referred for magnetic resonance imaging. Additional examinations include dopplerography, the procedure allows you to find out what state the circulatory system is in the cervical region.

Degrees of cervical osteochondrosis

The choice of methods for the treatment of osteochondrosis directly depends on the stage of the disease, which is diagnosed in a particular patient. It is customary to subdivide 4 stages of osteochondrosis, the division is conditional, since some symptoms may pass from one stage to another or not appear at all.

1 degree

The initial stage of the problem, at this stage, if pain is felt, then it is often attributed to stress or other disorders (improper sleep, prolonged exposure to an uncomfortable position). The patient may experience slight stiffness and limitation in movements, especially sudden ones. If you seek treatment for cervical osteochondrosis at this stage, you can eliminate the symptoms at home. To completely get rid of the problem, it will be possible to limit yourself to special exercises and visits to physiotherapy procedures. For prevention, it will be useful to start an active lifestyle (it is enough to take 20 minutes of daily walks in the fresh air), adjust the diet (exclude too fatty, fried, salty foods, give preference to fermented milk products, fruits and vegetables, food with sufficient calcium and trace elements, necessary for the restoration of connective and cartilage tissue).

2 degree

The pain intensifies, begins to become permanent. Sharp movements and turns bring discomfort, the patient is faced with a severe headache, begins to notice that he is very tired from everyday activities. Often patients become distracted, because they think only about pain. Some experience numbness in certain areas of the face.

3 degree

In the area of damaged discs, hernias begin to develop, which causes dizziness and weakness in the arms. It hurts not only the head and neck, the pain gradually spreads to the entire shoulder girdle.

4 degree

A characteristic process is the destruction of intervertebral discs, the replacement of "empty places" with connective tissue. This leads to pinched nerves, the pain becomes unbearable, does not go away without taking special drugs. The patient experiences dizziness, especially with sudden turns of the head and a change in body position, ringing appears in the ears, sleep is disturbed, the quality of life deteriorates greatly, disability is possible if left untreated.

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis

The doctor selects the appropriate method for treating the patient, depending on the stage of the disease. The most commonly used drug treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in combination with a visit to physiotherapy. In advanced cases, surgery may be required to remove overgrown connective tissue and bone processes.

Conservative treatment

Most often based on the intake of certain medications. Drug treatment helps to reduce pain, get rid of muscle tension, and localize inflammation. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as painkillers, are used.

Often, the doctor also includes chondroprotectors in the prescription. This group of drugs activates the restoration of destroyed tissues in the region of the intervertebral discs.

These drugs are prescribed in the form of injections or tablets. A good therapeutic result is demonstrated by ointments based on NSAIDs. They are rubbed into the damaged area, relieving pain within 10-20 minutes. The main advantage of ointments is a local effect on the painful area and a minimal effect on other organs.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy procedures have a number of goals at once:

Localization of the inflammatory process;
Removal of muscle spasm;
Relief of pain syndrome;
Launch of regenerative processes;
Increased general and local immunity;
Restoration of the normal position of nerve fibers, elimination of compression and pinching.

Most often, with cervical osteochondrosis, the following procedures are prescribed:

Shock wave therapy. With the help of a special device, an acoustic wave is directed directly to the cartilage tissue of the spine, which has been damaged. As a result, metabolic processes are launched, salt and calcium deposits are destroyed, which interfere with the normal movement of joints and vertebrae. The procedure is characterized by a cumulative effect, often the first results become noticeable only 2-3 months after the start of treatment.
Acupuncture. Acupuncture is often used to treat and prevent cervical osteochondrosis. It is important that the procedure is carried out only by a qualified doctor, otherwise you may not only encounter a lack of effect, but also an aggravation of the current condition. The essence of the procedure is that special needles are installed on biologically active points, forcing the body to start metabolic processes, stimulate the production of natural painkillers.
Massage. The main goal is to reduce pain and improve blood circulation in the damaged area of the cervical segment of the spine. With proper massaging, the muscles acquire a lost tone, as a result, it is possible to eliminate the risk of recurrence of osteochondrosis in the future. When visiting the first massage sessions, the patient is faced with severe pain, it is important not to stop treatment because of pain, but to go through all the procedures prescribed by the doctor.

Surgery

It is mainly prescribed at advanced stages of the disease, when the use of medications and visits to physiotherapy procedures do not bring any results. The indication for surgical intervention is a catastrophic narrowing of the spinal canal.

Modern methods of surgery allow the patient to be discharged from the hospital after 3-5 days and switch to outpatient treatment of symptoms of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis. Over the next three months, the patient undergoes rehabilitation.

Physiotherapy

A correctly chosen set of exercises for osteochondrosis can not only improve the general condition of the patient, but also speed up the process of treating the disease. There are several effective exercises:

Turns and tilts of the head in different directions. The exercise is performed in a sitting position, it is important not to jerk, all movements should be smooth with a gradual increase in the number of repetitions and the amplitude of the slope.
Head tilts to the side with resistance. Body position - sitting at the table, one elbow is on the table, while the palm presses on the temple. Tilt your head towards your hand, while creating slight resistance.
Shoulder lift. Raise your shoulders as high as possible and fix in this position for a while.
Self-kneading the back of the head and neck with your fingertips. It is important that the movements are soft and do not cause pain. You can perform self-massage in any comfortable position.

It is important not to treat cervical osteochondrosis at home without consulting a neurologist, a set of exercises must be agreed with your doctor.

Manual therapy for cervical osteochondrosis

Treatment with manual therapy relieves muscle tension and joint blockage, relieves pain, restores the capabilities of the musculo-articular apparatus. The doctor evaluates the condition of the muscles, determines the pain points and the degree of springing of the spinal joint. Further, through active and passive movements of the hands, it affects the damaged tendons, ligaments and muscles. Treatment of manual therapy is contraindicated during acute inflammation and instability of the vertebrae.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture for cervical osteochondrosis is carried out using sterile needles, which are inserted into pre-selected points at different depths and left for a certain time. Needles are chosen very thin to minimize discomfort. The procedure relieves pain, activates microcirculation, normalizes metabolic processes, improves overall health and increases the effectiveness of drug treatment.

Kinesiology taping

This is the imposition of an elastic bandage in the form of the letter Y on the area of the cervical-collar zone while maintaining the mobility of the neck. Tapes for cervical osteochondrosis relieve pain, inhibit inflammation, and provide support for the paravertebral muscles.

Orthopedic collars

A collar for osteochondrosis of the cervical region is needed in the acute period of the disease. It fixes the bones and joints, reducing the load on the affected segment. The collar also corrects the position of deformed vertebrae and bones of the skeleton, and relieves pain.

Depending on the degree of fixation, orthopedic collars are of several types:

soft splint (Schanz collar). This product is made of dense, elastic polyurethane foam in a fabric cover with fastening in the form of Velcro, buttons or plastic fasteners. With its help, you can adjust the volume of the collar. A soft tire is worn from 2 weeks to 4 months, after every two hours of use, you need to take a break;
inflatable collar. Consists of dense, flexible material. The course of treatment depends on the stage of osteochondrosis. In the early days, it is recommended to wear the collar for five minutes twice a day, gradually increasing the time to 30 minutes. An inflatable collar is worn to prevent cervical osteochondrosis;
semi-rigid collar. A semi-rigid corset for the neck is made of polyurethane with a clasp at the back. Compared to a soft splint, it fixes the neck more firmly. It comes in different sizes;
rigid collar. Made of thermoplastic material with front and rear caliper. It is made according to individual sizes and is recommended to be used during the entire course of treatment of cervical osteochondrosis.

physiotherapy for cervical osteochondrosis

Complications of osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis causes disruption of the most important structures: blood vessels and nerves. Without treatment, the disease can lead to the following complications:

ischemic stroke;
loss of sensation or motor function of the hand;
difficulty swallowing;
violation of the thyroid gland;
loss or significant reduction in visual acuity.

In addition, damage to the intervertebral discs and joints leads to a significant limitation of neck mobility.

What is dangerous osteochondrosis of the cervical

Many patients complain that their neck and head hurt at the same time. Patients have to choose a certain position in which the pain subsides or seems less acute. This is not always comfortable, so performance is reduced.

As the disease progresses, disc protrusion develops, intervertebral tissues are destroyed, and the gaps decrease. At the last stage of the disease, the disc is completely destroyed, and connective tissue forms in its place. Because of this, the patient has a limitation of mobility: for example, he cannot turn or tilt his head.

If time does not cure osteochondrosis in the cervical region, it can lead to compression of the spinal cord, disability and paralysis.

Prevention

The main rule of preventive measures is that they must be comprehensive and observed on an ongoing basis. Only in this way will they bring the expected result. Prevention is indicated for people who are at risk.

Watch your posture. The ideal position of the body - the head and back are on the same line. Always make sure that your shoulders are straightened, your stomach is pulled in, and your chest is raised. The gait also plays a role - it should be springy and even. Never give yourself indulgence, at the initial stage it is important to discipline yourself, in the future, correct posture will become a habit.
Well organized workplace. When working, the shoulders should be relaxed, the constant tension of the lumbar belt has a direct effect on the cervical spine. Basic requirements - a chair with a comfortable back and armrests, a monitor at eye level, a keyboard below the elbows (the angle between the shoulder and forearm is about 120 degrees). During work, make it a habit to take a break every 40-50 minutes with basic stretching exercises.
Adjust the car seat properly. Many motorists are faced with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine due to the fact that they set up the driver's seat not according to the rules, but in a way that suits them. The correct position of the body in the chair - the entire spine touches the back, and not just the shoulders. It is advisable to purchase special lumbar pillows that will help support the body in the desired position. With a long ride, it is important to go out into the streets after 1. 5-2 hours and warm up.
Watch your nutrition. Problems with the cervical spine are often associated with the fact that the patient does not eat properly. Dangerous foods that increase the risk of osteochondrosis include: white bread, rich products, sweets, dishes high in salt and sugar, fried and fatty foods. The main danger is refined sugar - the substance contributes to the leaching of calcium from the body. Include legumes and nuts, high-protein foods, seasonal vegetables and fruits in your daily diet. Low-fat fermented milk products - kefir, fermented baked milk, cottage cheese, natural yoghurts - will also have a positive effect. If you have a problem with being overweight, visit a nutritionist.
Daily physical activity. Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis at home with the help of physical education is an excellent prophylactic against diseases of the spine. It is important to do exercises at an easy pace, without exceeding the permissible load. If there is no time for a full-fledged set of exercises, make it a rule to take daily walks.
Massage. Correct techniques restore muscle tone, relieve tension, start metabolic and regenerative processes in the body. It is not necessary to visit specialists, the correct massage of the cervical spine can be performed independently.
Correct sleep. During the day, the intervertebral discs experience increased stress, complete relaxation and rest can be achieved only during a night's sleep. For the prevention of osteochondrosis, it is important to organize the right place to sleep and keep track of time (at least 8 hours).

Sanatorium treatment and its benefits

The sanatorium specializes in identifying symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis and treating diseases of the musculoskeletal system, including osteochondrosis of various localization. The procedures are selected individually for each individual patient, taking into account the degree of damage to the tissues of the spine, the presence of concomitant diseases, the age of the patient, and possible contraindications.

An integrated approach is practiced - a combination of drug treatment with physiotherapy procedures and physiotherapy exercises. This approach helps to forget about the problem forever.

A positive effect in the treatment of symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervicothoracic spine also demonstrates mud therapy, manual and hardware massage, various physiotherapy.