Osteochondrosis in the usual sense for us is a disease of the spine that is manifested by a decrease in the height of the discs. But this is a natural process in the body, associated with its aging and retaliation for bipedalism. Changes of this type can be found 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 the elastic tissue of the intervertebral discs. There are seven interconnected processes in the arch, and blood vessels and nerve endings pass through their small openings. In 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 an X-ray, it has no important clinical significance.
In general, the prognosis of the pathology is favorable, recovery occurs in the vast majority, 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 of age. In people aged 30 to 49, the problem with the cervical vertebra occurs in 65% of cases. Over the years, there are more and more complaints about illness due to the sedentary lifestyle of many workers.
| How is it going | Women's age | Age of men |
|---|---|---|
| It's not progressing | 58 | 65 |
| It's slowly progressing | 46 | 46 |
| is progressing rapidly | 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 noticeable that the average age of men in this case is 7 years older.
| city dwellers | A villager | Brainwork | Physical work | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| It's not progressing | 41 | 56 | 55 | 55 |
| It's slowly progressing | 31 | 31 | 29 | 28 |
| is progressing rapidly | 28 | fourteen | fifteen | 17 |
It is also noticeable that fast-acting osteochondrosis occurs more often in urban than in rural areas.
Causes of disease
Many factors, individually or in combination, affect the condition of the cervical spine.
Osteochondrosis of the cervical region - degenerative changes on the intervertebral discs in the cervical region.
It is manifested by pain, general weakness, numbness in the hands and neck, and sometimes tinnitus.
In order to determine the degree of damage to the cartilage tissue 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;
- irregular metabolism;
- salt deposits;
- unbalanced diet;
- sedentary work, including driving a vehicle or working at a computer;
- obesity;
- breach of posture;
- depression, stress, overstrain;
- viral diseases in chronic form;
- sudden cessation of training in athletes or irregular movements during physical exertion;
- injury;
- genetic predisposition;
- childbirth;
- violations 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 degree of development of intervertebral disc pathology
The pathology develops gradually and there are a total of 4 stages:
1 degree
Signs of disease manifestation are minimal, pain in the cervical region is insignificant. When you turn your head, they can increase and cause discomfort. During the examination by the doctor, there is mild muscle tension in the cervical area.
2 degree
The pain in this case is stronger than in the above description. And they can give in the hand or in the shoulder area. This manifestation is caused by a decrease in the height of the spinal disc and a violation of the nerve endings in it.
The pain occurs when turning or tilting the head. At the same time, the patient's working capacity decreases, headache attacks, general weakness of the body occur.
3 degree
The pain becomes stronger, numbness of the limbs and weakness of the hand muscles appear, which means the formation of intervertebral hernias. This stage of the disease is accompanied by frequent dizziness and general weakness of the body.
4 degree
This is the most dangerous state of the body, because the disc is completely destroyed and bone tissue is replaced by elastic tissue. 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 an injury 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 subsides significantly due to the regeneration of cartilage tissue, but the pinched 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
Pain can manifest itself in different parts of the body, so it is necessary to perform special examinations. For example, pain can occur in the area of the eyeballs, in the dental nerves or in the ears. In some cases, they can spread to the shoulders, arms, shoulder blades, and lower back.
Pain in the heart muscle is not excluded, they can easily be confused with heart diseases. If you are using medications that help relieve heart failure pain, then they will not be of any use.
Due to cervical osteochondrosis, the arteries that feed the brain with blood can be pinched (which is extremely rare and only in massive osteophytes or large hernias), so dizziness, noise in the head, nausea, headache, loss of orientation, reduced visual function can occur. appear and listen.
| Place of manifestation | characteristic sensations |
|---|---|
| Cervical | It hurts and makes you dizzy, it's hard to breathe, your hearing and vision get worse, hoarseness appears in your voice, your hands are tingling. |
| Lumbar | Lower back pain - sharp or dull, sweating problems, leg cramps, cold feet, menstrual irregularities, erectile dysfunction. |
| thoracic | Difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest or back, pain spreads in the heart area and occurs when bending and breathing. |
After a long time in a vertical body position and a sudden ascent, severe dizziness may occur. Fingers, toes and the 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.
Heartfelt
The symptoms are similar to the picture that manifests itself in heart failure, as well as the condition that precedes a heart attack. This category includes:
- burning and pain in the chest;
- increased fatigue;
- dyspnea;
- general weakness;
- fast heartbeat.
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:
- painwhile turning the door;
- changes inspacebetween the vertebrae and their bodies;
- violationmobilityin the neck area.
These features are directly related to each other. If any of the symptoms are absent, then we are not talking about vertebral syndrome.
Vertebral artery
It indicates 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 flow in the brain:
- nervous system irritationendings, 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;
- deficiencyoxygen, which is manifested by drowsiness, depression, fainting, reduced 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 fusion of 1 of 8 pairs of roots that innervate the cervical spine. Usually only one side of the body is affected.
The following symptoms will indicate a violation of conduction:
- 1-2 pairs- pain in the back of the head;
- third- difficulty chewing food, numbness of the tongue;
- fourth- hiccups, pain in the collarbone;
- the fifth- Difficulty in moving the shoulder joint;
- sixth- discomfort in the forearm and shoulder blades;
- the seventh- numbness of the middle and index fingers on the upper limbs;
- eight- violation of the mobility of the little fingers and ring fingers.
Since in most cases several couples are involved in the pathological process at once, mixed symptoms are observed.
Diagnostics
In order to diagnose the presence of the disease, an analysis of the patient's lifestyle, including his professional activity, is initially carried out. Summarizes information about symptoms. In addition, research is conducted on the presence of similar pathology among family members in order to determine hereditary predisposition factors.
A direct examination of the neck and back is then performed in various positions to determine changes in posture and visible disc locations. Painful areas and places of muscle tension are felt. But these are only external views, 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 scanner
This is a more advanced way of detecting changes in the vertebrae, but it is difficult to determine the size and presence of a hernia, as well as places of compression of the spinal cord.
MRI
This method is the most progressive, compared to the previous two. With it, you can make a detailed conclusion about the size, location and structure of intervertebral changes.
Ultrasound duplex scan
It is used for suspicious 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 flow and blood flow from the brain. Currently, it is rarely prescribed due to low informativeness.
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 the worsening of this disease, as a rule, drugs are prescribed to relieve pain, together with 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 folds, relatively strong tightening and pressing;
- lightvibration- tapping and shaking;
- trituration- little application of effort to implement friction until the muscle is warmed up;
- caress- movements are gentle without the use of effort;
- squeezing- Light 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 up the muscles, relieve tension, restore the normal functions of the joints, and with a sharp effect on the pathogenic zones comes the restoration of the neck vertebrae.
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 exercise is based on the normalization of blood flow in the damaged area.
Strong tilts and head rotation should not be used during exercise therapy. 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. Raise your head and torso. The back forms a straight line. You have to stand in this position for about two minutes. Then slowly take the starting position. The number of repetitions is not more than 3.
A second
Sit down and bend forward while inhaling. In this case, the head should touch the chest. On exhalation, the head tilts and tilts back. You must 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 must be stopped.
Exercise therapy is allowed only in the absence of worsening 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, most of the time a person is in a sedentary state. As a result, back pain begins to occur. The rest of the spinal part is possible only at night during sleep. Therefore, it is important to choose the right pillow.
Orthopedic sleep products help 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, intended for installation under the door.
If the person is overweight, a pillow with a shoulder notch may be recommended.
To achieve the maximum effect, it is important to take into account 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.
- Degreerigidity. Here you also have to consider your favorite sleeping position. If you sleep on your stomach most of the time, a softer product will do, and on your back, it is better to opt for a hard pillow.
- Form. For rest at night, doctors advise taking a rectangular model. For a short vacation, the half-moon option is suitable.
The main disadvantage of orthopedic pillows is that with the wrong choice, a person will constantly feel discomfort.
Needle Applicator
This is a device consisting of a fabric base and elastic material to which plastic plates with spikes are attached. Additionally, the kit may include inserts with magnetic strips.
The operation of the device is based on the effect of acupuncture on the human body. The use of applicators for cervical osteochondrosis contributes to:
- eliminationspasmsand muscle relaxation
- cuppingpainfulback syndrome;
- normalizationblood circulation;
- improvementmobilityjoints;
- revitalizationmetabolic processes in tissues.
Main contraindications for use:
- chronicallydiseases;
- pregnancy;
- oncologicalpathology;
- epilepticattacks;
- tendency tobleeding;
- heartylung diseases and injuries.
The therapeutic course lasts 14-21 days with compliance with all the doctor's prescriptions. Use the device only in a well-ventilated area.
Diet
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 allows for the use of a variety of healthy foods. In any case, the energy value 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 is significantly increased.
In addition, it is necessary to reduce salt intake. Its excessive amount in the body contributes to the appearance of edema and additionally burdens the vascular system. No more than 5 grams of this product is allowed per day.
It is also recommended to reduce the consumption of starch and sugar.
All dishes are steamed, in the oven, by boiling.
Prohibited products
Patients with cervical osteochondrosis will have to give up a large amount of coffee, pastries and sweet products.
You must completely exclude from your diet:
- dried fish;
- carbonated beverages;
- pickles;
- Canned food and sausages;
- cakes;
- fatty soups;
- nutritional supplements.
In addition, strong tea, sweet grapes, spicy dishes, marinades and smoked meat are prohibited.
Complications and consequences
The pain caused by cervical osteochondrosis is not yet a serious symptom of the disease. But if you do not respond to them in time and take no action, irreversible processes may occur later. The most dangerous disease resulting from displacement or herniation of vertebral discs can be cardiovascular pathologies.
When the arteries passing through the spine are compressed, the cerebral circulation is disturbed and, accordingly, the brain experiences starvation. As a result, the function of the cerebellum and the 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 impaired. Comorbidities begin, such as thyroid disease, migraines, and curvature of the spine. Cervical osteochondrosis can cause a violation of the normal function of the digestive system and genital organs.
By studying the pathogenesis of the disease, experts discovered that its occurrence is often caused by an unhealthy lifestyle, malnutrition, as well as stress and increased stress on the body. Therefore, it is recommended to contact your doctor in case of minor signs in order to avoid their development into a more serious pathology.
Prevention
Preventive measures to prevent such a disease should be different. Experts recommend:
- sleepon a medium-firm mattress and a low pillow;
- visit occasionallybathroomor sauna. This helps release tension in the muscles;
- take dailyshowerwith hot water;
- walk moreon his feet, swim or do yoga exercises;
- noturn aroundside of head sharp;
- after work forcomputerat the end of each hour, rest for five minutes, while working with your hands, making small bends of the trunk, not forgetting to maintain your posture;
- atsedentarywork on keeping your back straight;
- especially choosearmchairsor comfortable chairs for work.
In addition to the physical impact on the correct function of the cervical vertebrae, it is necessary to adjust the nutritional diet. To do this, you need to eat little, but often - at least 5 times a day.
Steamed meals will ensure good digestion and will not negatively affect 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. Salad dressing is recommended with olive oil.
The following foods should be included in a nutritious diet:
- rabbit meat,Chickenor lean beef
- tomatoand cucumbers, cabbage, beets, avocados, celery, spinach, lettuce, peppers, carrots and onions;
- thincheeses, fresh cheese and milk;
- fish, squid, crabs and oysters;
- aspicand jelly;
- seedsunflower, almonds and hazelnuts;
- cereals, eggs and mushrooms.
It is recommended to exclude from the diet or limit the amount of consumption:
- fatty soups;
- beans;
- beans;
- grapefruit;
- smoked meat;
- flour products and spicy dishes.
For preventive purposes, you can perform simple physical exercises:
- lie onstomachand rest your hands on the floor. Then slowly and carefully raise your head and fix this position for a minute. After returning to the starting position. So repeat 3 or 4 times.
- He lies on his stomach, hands upto arrangealong the body, then turn the head slightly to the right. Return to the starting position and also turn your head to the left. Repeat on both sides 5 times.
- Sitting on a chairlet downhead until the chin touches the body. Do this exercise while exhaling. Then take the starting position. After inhaling air from your lungs, throw your head back. Repeat the exercise - 10 times.
- Rotatehead 4 times clockwise and counterclockwise, but if the health condition allows it.
Complexes of exercises can be different, a medical professional will help you choose them.
In any case, before performing gymnastics, it is necessary to consult a specialist, and if you feel dizziness or pain during the exercises, then you should stop them and consult your doctor.
Answers to common questions
Which doctor treats?
At the first signs of the development of pathology, it is necessary to contact a therapist who, after the initial examination, will give a referral to a neurologist (he deals with problems of the nervous system), a radiologist and a specialist. tomography. A vertebrologist performs subsequent diagnostics and prescribes treatment. The osteopath will help determine the location of the lesion.
Which pillow to sleep on with cervical osteochondrosis?
Experts recommend using only orthopedic sleeping pillows. They must meet the following requirements: elastic, moderately dense, rectangular in shape, small in size.
How long does an exacerbation last?
The duration of the attack is on average 2-5 days. However, after this period, for another 2-3 weeks, the patient will feel discomfort in the affected area of the spinal region. Thus, the exacerbation phase can last from several days to several months.
How long should I lie on 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 perform 2-3 procedures a day.