Osteochondrosis is a common disease of the spine characterized by degenerative changes in the structure of the cartilage tissue of the discs and the bone base.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 of this area occurs 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, because the symptoms of osteochondrosis are characterized by headache attacks, as well as 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 current problems, the patient begins to suddenly lose consciousness, there is a lack of air and numbness of the tongue.The disease is mainly diagnosed in people over 30 years old, which is associated with constant dynamic and static loads.Recently, such disorders have been observed even in adolescents.
Levels of development
Symptoms and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis largely depend on the degree of development of the disease.In the first phase, there is a disturbance in the nutrition of the cartilage tissue, which results in the production of certain enzymes that have a destructive effect.The person feels strong discomfort.Daily morning exercises will help to get rid of such symptoms.
In the second phase, the harmful effects of pathological enzymes increase constantly, and inflammation begins to develop in the body.The cartilage tissue gradually wears away, due to which the vertebrae begin to touch, pinching the nerve endings.Painful feelings become more and more pronounced.It becomes very difficult for a person to work.
At the third stage, neoplasms and growths begin to form on the bone tissue.Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in this case are manifested in the form of intense pain.Metabolism is disrupted, so salts begin to accumulate 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, because the degree of tissue destruction may not correspond to the existing signs.
Causes
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 that are closely related and are generally observed together.
Physiological changes can be caused by irreversible processes related to aging in cartilage tissue.Discomfort occurs when nerve endings are irritated.Pathological changes occur as a result of poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle.Mostly, such disorders occur in adolescents and middle-aged people.
In some cases, osteochondrosis can go away on its own or manifest itself in the form of short-term disorders.Among the main provocative 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 overexertion;
- hypothermia;
- head and neck injuries.
The cause of the development of osteochondrosis can be congenital anomalies, as well as various types of autoimmune diseases.
Main symptoms
There are many blood vessels and nerve endings located in the neck area.For this reason, the symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical and thoracic spine are associated with ischemia of certain areas of the brain.In addition, nerve endings that provide motor activity and sensitivity of the shoulder girdle and upper limbs, when compressed by 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 recognized:
- 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 pain in the neck, nape and collarbone.The localization of the pain can 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 may pass quickly, and gradually the pain becomes chronic and painful.In the period of exacerbation, the pain becomes shooting, the tone of the neck muscles increases and head movement is restricted.
Among the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in women and men are 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.
Among the main features are the following:
- dizziness,
- pressure changes,
- lack of air
- nausea,
- visual impairment.
Vertigo is considered one of the symptoms of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis.They are caused by a violation of blood flow in 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, 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, which is caused by poor circulation in certain areas of the brain.Sometimes it can 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 desired result, and vision improves only after treatment of osteochondrosis.
Unstable pressure is caused by disturbed 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 can be observed.
It is very important to recognize the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in time.The feeling of discomfort and pain does not always occur, which is why it is important to perform a comprehensive examination and competent treatment in a timely manner.It is worth noting that every patient feels a creaking sound and characteristic clicks when moving the neck, and the course of the pathology can be recognized by this sign.
Performing diagnostics
If symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis appear, treatment must be started immediately, which is why it is advisable to consult a neurologist immediately.In order to determine the cause of the existing symptoms, a comprehensive examination is required.
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:
- radiography 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 to choose the most effective treatment regimen.The treatment process is quite long and requires patience.
It is impossible to completely restore cartilage structures, but it is possible to significantly improve the quality of life and get rid of chronic pain.It is very important to monitor the course of the disease in order to adjust the treatment program if necessary and predict possible improvements or complications.
Features of treatment
Regardless of the symptoms, the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is carried out by conservative methods and is always comprehensive.It is mandatory to use medicines, especially:
- 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 involving the use of ointments and warming gels is indicated.Physiotherapy and exercise 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 subsides.
To increase the distance between the vertebrae, hardware traction of the spinal column is indicated.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 device allows you to quickly cope with painful sensations, normalize blood circulation in the neck and improve the overall condition of the patient.
Drug therapy
Depending on the symptoms of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis, drug treatment is selected individually.The 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 normalize blood circulation, relieve pain and spasms, and also create a warming effect.
Treatment with drugs that normalize cerebral circulation will help to eliminate the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis of the spine.To improve metabolic processes in the brain, as well as to restore thinking and memory, nootropic drugs are needed.
Physiotherapy techniques
Treatment with special therapeutic exercises will quickly and effectively help to eliminate the existing symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis at home.In addition to exercise therapy and medication, a range of measures include the following methods of influence:
- spinal stretch,
- massage,
- physiotherapeutic influence.
Spinal traction will increase the space between the vertebrae.However, it is worth remembering that the load must be dosed.The influence is carried out in different ways, especially with the help of special tables.
Massage gives very good results.This procedure normalizes blood circulation, nutrition and gas exchange in cartilage tissue.In addition, with the help of massage, you can remove muscle tension and spasms and get rid of painful sensations.
Physiotherapy effects include the use of various means, such as:
- laser exposure,
- magnetic field,
- ultrasound,
- low frequency current.
In some cases, drugs are used in combination with physiotherapy, which increases their effectiveness and avoids side effects.
Acupuncture allows you to increase or slightly slow down processes in the body by affecting biologically active points.The greatest effectiveness of all these measures is achieved when they are used comprehensively.
Traditional methods
When the first symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis appear, treatment at home includes the use of medicinal baths to quickly relieve pain and inflammation.In addition, they help to relax the spine.Water procedures should be performed 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 remove inflammation, pain and spasms.Sea salt solution can be used as compresses.Treatment at home will quickly help to eliminate the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, but before using any means and techniques, you should definitely consult a doctor to prevent complications.
Implementation of prevention
The best way of prevention is a healthy lifestyle, as well as the formation of posture from childhood.For the purpose of prevention, it is recommended:
- dietary adjustments;
- use of an orthopedic pillow and sleeping mattress;
- smooth weight lifting.
The initial form of the disease usually has no pronounced symptoms.If you feel pain in the sternum area, consult a doctor immediately.
Possible complications
With timely diagnosis and proper treatment, osteochondrosis of the cervical spine passes 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;
- high blood pressure;
- weakness, stiffness, muscle atrophy;
- hernias and protrusions;
- vegetative-vascular dystonia;
- neurological disorders.
To prevent the development of complications, you must strictly follow all the 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 preventing 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 a worsening of the problem when surgery is required.