Osteochondrosis is a common disease of the spine characterized by degenerative changes in the structure of the cartilage 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.
Characteristics of the disease
The cervical region consists of vertebrae and nerve endings.Osteochondrosis in this area develops during the degeneration of the intervertebral core.In this case, the ongoing pathology affects nerve endings and important blood vessels.
The disease is well disguised as other disorders, since the symptoms of osteochondrosis are characterized by headaches and significant discomfort in the neck.Patients complain of blood pressure problems and nausea.Many people often confuse such symptoms with cardiovascular diseases.
It often happens that against the background of continuous problems, the patient suddenly loses consciousness, lacks air and the tongue becomes numb.The disease is mainly diagnosed in people over 30 years of age, which is associated with constant dynamic and static loads.Recently, such disorders have been observed even in adolescence.
Stages 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, which results in the production of certain enzymes that have a destructive effect.The person feels severe discomfort.Daily morning exercises help to get rid of such symptoms.
In the second stage, the harmful effect of the pathological enzymes increases continuously, and inflammation begins to develop in the body.The cartilage tissue gradually wears away, as a result of which the vertebrae begin to touch, pinching the nerve endings.Painful feelings become more pronounced.It becomes very difficult for a person to work.
In the third degree, neoplasms and growths begin to form on the bone tissue.The symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in this case appear in the form of intense pain.There is a metabolic disorder, which is why salts begin to deposit 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.
Based on the existing symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, it is not always possible to immediately determine the stage of the disease, since the degree of tissue destruction may not correspond to the existing signs.
Reasons
Before determining the symptoms and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis, you need to understand exactly what factors influence the development of the pathological process.The development of the disease is influenced by pathological and physiological processes, which are closely related to each other and can mainly be considered together.
Age-related irreversible processes can provoke physiological changes in the cartilage tissue.In case of irritation of the nerve endings, an unpleasant sensation occurs.Pathological changes occur as a result of improper nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle.Most often, such disorders occur in adolescents 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 should be highlighted:
- lack of regular physical activity;
- overweight;
- frequent stay in an uncomfortable position;
- incorrectly selected pillow or mattress;
- nervous surge;
- hypothermia;
- injuries to the back of the head and neck.
The cause of osteochondrosis can be congenital disorders, as well as various types of autoimmune diseases.
Main symptoms
There are many blood vessels and nerve endings in the neck area.This is why 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 limbs, 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 signs can be identified:
- disturbance 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 cervical thoracic osteochondrosis of the spine is the presence of pain in the neck, back of the head and collar area.The localization of the pain can be more extensive, provoking a severe migraine.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 quickly disappears, and gradually the pain becomes chronic and painful.During the period of exacerbation, the pain becomes shooting, the tone of the neck muscles increases, and the movement of the head is limited.
Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in women and men include ringing in the ears and noise, as well as congestion.In some cases, hearing loss occurs.All these manifestations are associated with a decrease in blood flow.
Key features also include:
- 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 the blood flow of the organs that ensure the balance of the body.Lack of air can occur as a result of irritation of the nerve endings involved in the regulation of the breathing process.Patients often complain that they cannot breathe deeply.In some cases, the symptoms worsen to severe shortness of breath or asthma attacks.
The lack of oxygen associated with breathing problems is the main cause of increased fatigue, reduced attention and memory problems.In some cases, nausea may occur, which is caused by poor circulation in certain 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 deterioration of visual acuity.However, such a violation occurs quite rarely.It is worth noting that performing therapeutic exercises and wearing glasses does not give the desired result, and vision improves only after treatment of osteochondrosis.
Unstable pressure is caused by a disturbance in blood circulation in the area responsible for the operation of the vascular-motor center of the brain.In some cases, a slight increase in temperature and local redness are observed.
It is very important to immediately recognize the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis.Discomfort and pain do not always occur, so it is important to conduct a comprehensive examination and competent treatment in time.It is worth noting that when moving the neck, all patients experience a crackling sound and characteristic clicks, and the course of the pathology can be recognized from this sign.
Performing diagnostics
If symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis appear, treatment should be started immediately, so it is advisable to consult a neurologist immediately.A comprehensive examination is required to determine the cause of the existing symptoms.
During the examination with neurological tests, the doctor assesses the degree of neck mobility and pain, as well as the characteristics of the blood circulation of 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 allows us to determine the location of the lesion and the extent of the advanced disease, as well as to select the most effective treatment regimen.The treatment process is quite long and requires patience.
A complete restoration of cartilage structures is impossible, but the quality of life can be significantly improved and you can get rid of chronic pain.It is very important to monitor the course of the disease in order to modify the treatment program if necessary and predict possible improvements or complications.
Features of the treatment
Regardless of the symptoms, cervical osteochondrosis is treated with conservative methods and is always comprehensive.The use of medicines is necessary, in particular:
- anti-inflammatory drugs,
- pain relievers,
- corticosteroids,
- muscle relaxants,
- vitamin complexes.
In severe cases, novocaine blockades are prescribed in the area of greatest pain.Sometimes the introduction of hormonal drugs may also be justified.In addition, local treatment is prescribed, which includes the use of warming ointments and gels.Physiotherapy and movement therapy have a good effect.Such techniques allow you to strengthen the neck muscles very quickly and effectively.However, their use is possible only after the acute period has ended.
In order to increase the space between the vertebrae, hardware traction of the spinal column is recommended.In severe cases, surgical intervention is necessary, but there must be appropriate indications for this.
The therapy can be supplemented by wearing a Shants orthopedic collar.Due to the strong fixation of the cervical vertebrae, the treatment is carried out much faster.This tool allows you to quickly cope with painful sensations, normalizes blood circulation in the neck and improves the general well-being of the patient.
Drug therapy
Depending on the symptoms of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis, drug treatment is selected individually.The goal of therapy is to eliminate pain, inflammation, and restore normal mobility of the vertebrae and blood circulation.
Among the main groups of drugs, the following should be highlighted:
- pain relievers;
- 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 normalize blood circulation, eliminate pain and spasms, and have a warming effect.
Treatment with drugs that normalize cerebral circulation helps eliminate the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis of the spine.In order to improve the metabolic processes of the brain, as well as to restore thinking and memory, nootropic drugs are needed.
Physiotherapy techniques
Treatment with special therapeutic exercises quickly and effectively helps eliminate the existing symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis at home.In addition to exercise therapy and medication, the range of measures includes the following influencing methods:
- spine stretching,
- massage,
- physiotherapy effect.
Traction of the spine increases the space between the vertebrae.However, it is worth remembering that the load must be dosed.The effect is carried out in different ways, especially with the help of special tables.
Massage gives very good results.This procedure normalizes the blood circulation, nutrition and gas exchange of the cartilage tissue.In addition, with the help of massage, you can eliminate muscle tension and spasms, as well as get rid of painful sensations.
Physiotherapy effects involve the use of various tools, such as:
- laser exposure,
- magnetic field,
- ultrasound,
- low frequency current.
In some cases, drugs are also used in combination with physiotherapy, which increases their effectiveness and avoids the occurrence of side effects.
Acupuncture makes it possible to increase or slightly slow down processes in the body by influencing biologically active points.The greatest effectiveness of all these measures can be achieved if they are applied comprehensively.
Traditional methods
When the first symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis appear, home treatment includes the use of spas to quickly eliminate pain and inflammation.They also help to relax the spine.Water treatment should be done every other day, the course of therapy is 15-20 procedures.
You can add a decoction of mint, chamomile, birch, lemongrass or sage to the bath water.Yarrow infusion is great for oral administration as it helps to quickly relieve inflammation, pain and spasms.The sea salt solution can be used as a poultice.Home treatment will quickly help eliminate the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, but before using any tools and techniques, be sure to consult your doctor to prevent complications.
Implementation of prevention
The best way to prevent it is to develop a healthy lifestyle and posture in childhood.Recommended for prevention:
- dietary adjustments;
- use of orthopedic pillow and mattress for sleeping;
- straight weight lifting.
The initial form of the disease usually has no pronounced symptoms.If you feel a sharp pain in the sternum area, see a doctor immediately.
Possible complications
With timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, osteochondrosis of the cervical spine occurs without complications.Otherwise, there is a risk of various pathological changes that can lead to disability.Major complications include:
- circulatory disorders in the brain;
- increased blood pressure;
- weakness, numbness, muscle wasting;
- hernias and protrusions;
- vegetative-vascular dystonia;
- neurological disorders.
In order to prevent the development of complications, you must strictly follow all the recommendations of the doctor.Getting rid of discomfort in the early stages is much easier than treating an advanced disease.We must not forget about prevention and the prevention of the child's bad posture.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 a worsening of the problem if surgery is required.