Cervical osteochondrosis: how to determine and cure

Cervical osteochondrosis is a disease that is difficult to diagnose when the patient's initial treatment due to a large number of signs and a slow course of the disease.

Development and manifestation of pathology

The osteochondrosis of the cervical column is found in people who lead a sedentary lifestyle and have a sedentary work.

Signs

The signs of osteochondrosis of the cervical vertebrae are not only pain in the cervical region and in the upper shoulder area, but also headaches, chest pain.

Several syndromes are distinguished, each of which is characterized by their own signs.

Rooser's syndrome is due to a pinch of nerve endings in the intervertebral space of cervical spaces.Characteristics characteristics:

• Pain in the cervical region;
• pain in the forearm and hands;
• The tingling sensations, numbness in the forearm.

Cardial syndrome (or cardiac syndrome) is due to the infraction or irritation of the roots of the nerves of the diaphragm and (or) large thoracic muscle.In this case, the signs will serve as pain in the heart area, which will be a long time and acute in case of head rotation, sneezing or other neck movements (as in the case of angina pectotoris).

Vail artery syndrome.The signs of osteochondrosis in this case will be:

• Pulsante headaches in the occipital, frontal (above the eyebrows) and the temporal part, which are constant;
• Disorders of the auditory apparatus, the vestibular device, the vision (when the osteochondrosis of the cervical vertebrae is already possible in a careless state).

Irritive reflex syndrome.The signs of such syndrome are:

• pulsating pains in the occipital part of the head;
• pain in the cervical part, even lower to the chest or extending to the side, in the shoulder joint;
• Strengthen pain after sleep, acute head movements (including sneezing, cough).

Symptoms

Symptoms with developing osteochondrosis depend on which nerve root is damaged.In the cervical region 7 vertebrae, among which there are nerves.Its damage causes pain in the development of osteochondrosis.

The vertebrae are considered from top to bottom and are indicated with Roman numbers (CI, ICI).The nerve endings between them are considered in a similar way and are designated by Arab numbers (C1, C2).Letter C denotes a cervical department (from lat. The cervical).

1. In case of damage to the nervous end between the first and second vertebra (C2), the main symptom will be the numbness and loss of sensitivity in the occipital part.Later - pain there.
2. The damage at the end of the nerve (C3) between the second and the third vertebra, leads to a deteriorated sensitivity in the area, and then leads to deteriorated sensitivity and a deteriorated language (until the deterioration of speech).
3. Damage to the nervous end between the third and fourth vertebra (C4).In this case, the pain is concentrated in the clavicle, they pass to the area of the heart and the respiratory deterioration is possible.But the pains are preceded by a feeling of numbness in a necklace and shoulders.
4. C5 nerve root damage between the fourth and fifth vertebra.In case of damage, it responds with deterioration of the sensitivity of the limbs, both the upper part (to the hands) and the lower ones, as well as the pain in the forearm and the external part of the shoulder.
5. Damage to the nerve that ends in the area of the fifth, sixth and seventh vertebra (the most common cervical osteochondrosis).The pinch symptoms of the nerve endings of C6 and C7 are periodic numbness of the fingers and hands, neck pain, forearm and under the shoulder blade, back, to the lumbar.
6. Nerve damage C8.The pain concentrates on the neck and extends through the forearm to the elbow and on the back to the lower extremities.The pain is preceded by the loss of sensitivity in significant areas of the hands (fingers, brushes), legs (fingers, feet), skin.Blood circulation in the limbs is disturbed, which affects the color of the skin of the hands and feet.

Reasons

Cervical osteochondrosis is increasingly among the young population.The reasons that explain the appearance of the disease are often due to the incorrect way of life than to a hereditary predisposition.

Among the hereditary causes, not only a genetic predisposition to the disease is distinguished, but also to the presence of chronic diseases, hereditary abnormalities of the development of the spine.

The list of causes of osteochondrosis of the cervical vertebrae associated with the way of life is very wide.These include:

• Inadequate nutrition and, consequently, excess body weight, a disturbed metabolism in the body, the lack of vitamins and minerals.
• A sedentary lifestyle, which is caused by sitting or uniform work.Unstable physical activity.
• Severe physical activity.This includes professional sports, frequent weightlifting.
• The curvature of the spine, the violation of the posture, the consequences of the spinal lesions, developed flat feet.
• Stress, frequent nervous tension.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of osteochondrosis should only be performed by a doctor.

Visual diagnosis

When contacting a neurologist and an orthopedic doctor, initially an exam and survey of the patient will be performed.After palpation, the evaluation of the mobility of the neck and the degree of pain, the patient will be aimed at hardware diagnoses.

Radiography

The method will help identify changes in the cervical region and determine its degree.For a more precise diagnosis, it is possible to use functional radiography, when the images of the cervical column are taken in several poses, which helps to "capture" changes in the intervertebral space from several sides.

Magnetic resonance tomography

The method that uses magnetic pulses to obtain a tomogram, in which it is possible to diagnose not only pathologies in the structure of the vertebrae and intervertebral cartilage, but also to identify the presence of intervertebral hernias, their size and location.

When MRI is used in the diagnosis results, changes in the vascular system and nerve endings of the vertebral department will be seen.

Computed tomography

This is a detailed analysis of the condition of the vertebrae using a tomography and the processing of the computer of the result.The method allows not only to identify changes in vertebrae and intervertebral spaces, but also analyze the condition of soft tissues, blood vessels and ligaments.

Differential diagnosis

After sending one of the diagnostic procedures, the doctor will make a differential diagnosis: it will exclude the presence of other diseases in the body that have similar symptoms.This will require a blood analysis, a reference to other medical specialists.

What is dangerous to ignore osteochondrosis?

Cervical osteochondrosis has periods of remission and exacerbation.Often, unhealthy people, without going to the doctor in time and using analgesics, feel relief and forget the problem until the next exacerbation.But the disease continues to develop and, if it continues to ignore the obvious symptoms, it can lead to serious complications in the cervical region.

Among the first and, therefore, the relatively "mild" consequences of the launch of the osteochondrosis of the cervical region, the protrusion and hernia of the intervertebral discs are distinguished.

In the first case, the intervertebral disc stands out, its displacement from the normal location between the vertebrae.At the same time, the connection fibers within the intervertebral disc (fibrous ring) remain intact and intact.

The propsion in the cervical column is serious even with a size of up to 1 mm, while in other parts of the spine these changes are not so dangerous.

After the formation of bump, destruction will affect the fibrous ring, which connects the fibers that protect the internal jacket of the octopus nucleus.The pathological changes in these structures lead to the formation of hernia of the intervertebral disc.The formation and development of hernia is accompanied by the increase in pain syndromes and unpredictable consequences.

The most serious consequences of osteochondrosis, if there is no treatment, are vascular disorders: vegetable dystonia, hypertension and hypotension.

The formation of hernias of the intervertebral disc leads to a rape of the appropriate location and the functioning of the blood vessels, pressing the arteries that feed the brain.This leads to a violation of oxygen intake in the brain and its normal work, contributes to the formation of blood clots in the vessels with an additional gap.The result of the development of the disease is a stroke.

First aid

With the exacerbation of osteochondrosis, the first question that the patient faces: "How will pain eliminate in the cervical region?"

The medications that contain analgesics, as well as analgesics, will help eliminate the sensation of pain, and the restriction in the movements will help in the movements.

When acute pains, the next few hours and days before going to the doctor they can use anti -inflammatory analgesics.During the periods of a decrease in exacerbation, you can use ointments in warm -up, they will help relieve voltage in the neck and distract from painful pain.The ointments must be applied with light movements without massage.

If an attack of pain in the cervical column found you away from the first aid kit, such as an applicator, a pepper patch, mustard and a bag of sand can help.

The applicator must be placed on a flat surface, go to bed to be under the department of Cervical, the occipital part of the head and the shoulder joint.A few minutes will have to suffer skin pain.Go to bed at the applicator must be 2-3 times a day for 30-40 minutes.

Pepper or mustard patch, you can use a bag with warm sand, you must apply to the painful spot on the neck, leave for several minutes.Heat will relax the muscles and distract the irritation of the pepper or the mustard of pain.

Exercise therapy exercises (physiotherapy exercises), recommended for cervical osteochondrosis, can reduce pain, but in a meek period of time.The exercises must be carried out regularly during the referral periods: this will contribute to rapid treatment and the reduction of the severity and frequency of the exacerbations of the disease.

After receiving first aid and eliminating pain, you should seek help from doctors as soon as possible.

Treatment

The treatment of osteochondrosis is carried out using different methods.

Traditional medicine

Popular and effective is drug treatment.

Drug treatment

Anesthetic tablets are used during the exacerbation period of osteochondrosis and are more suitable for an ambulance for the patient.In such cases, analgesics are used.

The treatment is performed by other medications: non -steroid anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Modern medicine uses a new type of drug (condoprotectors, medications that restore cartilage tissue.

During the period of exacerbation of the disease, when pain syndrome can be very pronounced, doctors recipe injections that not only relieve pain, but have an anti -inflammatory effect.

Pain locking syndrome

In advanced cases, during the exacerbation of pain syndrome, it can be resistant to analgesics and even analgesic injections.Then, the doctor can be performed by the "blockade" called SO, the introduction of an anesthetic medication to a source of pain using an injection.Therefore, the painful section of the column is "disconnected" from the "general nervous composition" and for some time (depending on the individual characteristics) the pain of this area does not disturb the patient.

An experienced medical staff must necessarily carry out the procedure, since an incorrectly completed procedure can lead to complications.The blockade itself has no contraindications, except for individual drug intolerance and can be done as often as the body is necessary.

Non -traditional medicine

Osteochondrosis is a disease that is not so easy to treat, so it must address this exhaustively.In the treatment of osteochondrosis, acupuncture is used.

Acupuncture is not a traditional medicine method, but has been established in the fight against osteochondrosis, since it allows it to relieve pain and can be used during periods of exacerbation.It should be remembered that it does not bring acupuncture as such, it reduces symptoms, it helps to transfer the periods of exacerbation of the disease, improve the mobility of the neck and the joints, and the restoration and regeneration processes activated by the exposure contribute to the rapid recovery.

Physiotherapy

In addition to pharmacological treatment, doctors recommend that physiotherapy be performed.

1. Electrophoresis.In the case of osteochondrosis, electrophoresis is used with anti -inflammatory drugs and non -steroidal analgesics to transmit the medication to the point affected point and in the required volume.Electric current improves the effect of medications, and the procedure has the effect on treatment.
2. ElectrotherapyUse of weak electric currents and magnetotherapy using a magnetic field.They act in the painful areas, relieveing pain, improving blood circulation.Help during periods of remission and triggers cell regeneration processes, accelerating the healing process.

Other physiotherapists aim to increase the blood circulation of a painful area, reducing edema and inflammation, pain and general strengthening of body immunity during treatment.

Treatment with ointments

The use of ointments for osteochondrosis is not the main method in treatment and is prescribed as an additional measure that contributes to rapid recovery.The ointments used can be divided into several groups.

1. Analgesics and anti -inflammatory.These ointments include analgesic and steroid anti -inflammatory substances.
2. Heating of ointments.The main component of such ointments has an irritating effect on the skin, which increases the blood supply to the site.This relieves stress, swelling, reduces pain.
3. Condroprotectorsin the form of ointments.Active substances restore cartilage tissue, and auxiliary substances are relieved of inflammation and pain.
4. Massage ointments.Ointments used for massages and self -support.There are natural anti -inflammatory substances, analgesic substances, a complex of regenerative substances of plant origin.

Massage and Autoshaz

The massage with osteochondrosis of the cervical column is necessary during periods of remission of the disease so as not to increase pain during the procedure.The massage is prescribed by a course of ten to fifteen sessions and is carried out no more than once per room.The massage for cervical osteochondrosis is used as a procedure that strengthens the effect after treatment and to prevent osteochondrosis.

The massage of the collar zone and cool, in the place of distribution of the disease, is performed by a specialist.The clear movements of the massage therapist help knead the muscles of the neck, improve blood circulation, relieve tension and, after the massage course, strengthen the neck muscles, which will preserve the preventive effect for several weeks and even months.

If necessary, you can carry out a light massage yourself.It is necessary to knead and grind the muscles of the neck, the occipital part and the shoulder muscles on the back.Simple movements in a convenient position and at any time can be an addition to the treatment and prevention of the osteochondrosis of the cervical column.

The car -maseage is recommended for several minutes a day, it has no contraindications, and the pain, if the patient is easily controlled, is easily accompanied.

Adequate nutrition

In addition to classical treatment, physiotherapeutic procedures and massage, for the treatment and prevention of the osteochondrosis of the cervical column, adequate nutrition is necessary with a complete range of vitamins and minerals.

The main ones in this matter are vitamins A and C, strengthening the vessels.Vitamins B6 and B12 improve metabolism and amino acids in the body, help the nervous system work properly and without failures.

Complex vitamins are necessary during the referral period for the restoration and general strengthening of the body.

Traditional medicine

Popular remedies for the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis are divided into those who relieve pain and can be used for exacerbations, and those who use courses for several days or even weeks and have a therapeutic effect of long -term action.

Anesthetic Pope Compress

You will need:

• dad;
• Honey-1-2 tablespoons.tablespoons for a potato.

Preparation and application:

1. Clean raw potatoes, grate.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix with honey until soft.
3. Put the resulting dough at a painful point, cover with polyethylene and fixed with a diaper.Keep a compress for 1-2 hours.

R building infusion for anesthesia

Alcohol tinctures in popular medicine are used not only to rub pains in anesthesia, but also for oral administration for a general strengthening and relief effect.

For the infusion of radish in vodka, you will need:

• Black radish: medium size medium;
• Vodka-50-70 ml;
• Honey –3-4 tablespoons.tablespoons;
• Salt - 2 tablespoons.tablespoons

Preparation and application:

1. Peel the radish, Ralle in a grater.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix until it is soft: grated radish, honey, salt, vodka.
3. Rub the department of Cervical with the mixture with the mixture 2 times a day during the exacerbation.
4. Take inside with an empty stomach for 1 teaspoon 2 times a day during an exacerbation.

Analgesic ointment that is covered with ginger

You will need:

• Ginger powder - 1 tablespoon.spoon;
• garlic-2-3 teeth;
• butter.

Preparation and application:

1. Fry the ginger powder in a pan in a small amount of butter.
2. Peel the garlic, Ralle in a fine grater or grinds with a crush.
3. In a shallow bowl, mix fried ginger powder and garlic until soft.
4. The resulting ointment can be rubbed in a painful stain with exacerbations or used as a compress, tied with a diaper for a few minutes up to a sensation of ardor on the skin.

Garbage oil to rub

Oil rubbing with a slight massage for osteochondrosis is used during periods of remission of the disease, and is performed with courses of 10 to 15 days with a break.

You will need:

• OREGANO (GERBA) - A handful;
• Olive oil (it can be sunflower) 300-500 ml.

Preparation and application:

1. Pain (grass) shake finely.
2. Add the oregano to an oil bottle and let in a dark place for at least one day.
3. Strain the oil, also pressing the oil oregano.
4. Use the infused oil to rub and the light massage of the site affected by the osteochondrosis 1 time.

Night compress made of spicy radish

You will need:

• Picante-3-3pcs.;
• boiling water.

Preparation and application:

1. Dip the leaves of the spicy radish for a few seconds in boiling water (soften).
2. Apply the leaves softened to the place affected by the osteochondrosis, tied with a diaper and insulation with a scarf.
3. Leave the compress of spicy radish leaves at night.The sensation of light pinch is quite acceptable.
4. The procedure is performed during the remission of the disease with a 5-7 procedures course with a break for 2-3 weeks.

Lemon change cocktail

You will need:

• lemon - 1 PC.;
• Garlic head-1 (5-6 teeth);
• boiling water.

Preparation and application:

1. Peel the lemon of the peel, the seeds, grind with a blender or pass through a meat grinder.
2. Peel the garlic, move with a crush or a rack in a fine grater.
3. Mix the lemon and garlic in a large bottle or bottle, pour a mixture of 0.5 liters.boiling water.
4. Insist in the mixture resulting from at least 12 hours (leave during the night).
5. The resulting lemon cheese cocktail is consumed daily in half a glass with an empty stomach in the morning.

You can store a cocktail in the refrigerator, prepared as necessary.The course of taking a cocktail is 1 month.

Strawberry tea

You will need:

• Forest strawberries (fresh or dry) - 1 tablespoon.spoon;
• 1 cup of boiling water.

Preparation and application:

• Attacked floor berries pour boiling water as tea.
• Insist at least 10-15 minutes.
• Drink with 2-3 cups per day.

Medical Physical Education

One of the causes of osteochondrosis is hypodinamia: the lack of physical activity in the context of a sedentary lifestyle.Performing only a few simple exercises will help relieve the exacerbation of the disease or prevent its appearance.

Exercises "for home and office"

Endurance

1. Pressing the palm to the occipital part of the pressured head, making the effort of the neck muscles.With one hand to resist.Keep a 10 second voltage.
2. Change the position of the hand, placing it on the forehead and now try to place in the front in front.He also resisted about 10 seconds.
3. Change the position of the hand, placing it with a palm in the temple (right hand to the right temple), also resist the pressure of the head.Keep a 10 second voltage.
4. Change the hand and the side of the application of the exercise, now to resist the left (left hand to the left temple).Keep a 10 second voltage.
5. Change the situation alternately, repeating the exercise up to 5 times for each position of the hand.

Head turns

1. Stop straight, straightening your shoulders.
2. Make heads of the head as much as possible to the right and left alternately.
3. Lower the head towards the chin to the neck.
4. Take the same turn as much as possible on each side, slowly and without tear off your neck.
5. Perform the exercise slowly, the repetition revolves up to 5 times on each side in each position.

Standing headlines

1. Rest your shoulders and throw your head a little back.
2. Make the head to the left and right, trying to reach the shoulders with the ear.
3. Do the exercise slowly and repeat up to 5 times on each side.

Exercises performed lying

Raising his legs

1. Lying face up, stretch your arms and legs freely.
2. Place your legs, pull your knees to your stomach, while lifting your head, trying to put your eyes with your knees.
3. Abbotting, lowering his head and straightening his legs and arms again along the body that lies.Repeat, slowly 5 times.

Head turns lies

1. Lying on the stomach, straightening the legs, place your arms along the body.
2. Turn your head to the left, trying to take it to the floor with your right ear, then turn the head to the right, also trying to reach the floor now with your left ear.
3. Repeat the shots of the head up to 5 times in each direction.

When performing all the exercises, it should be remembered that in the case of the manifestation of pain, you must refuse to perform the exercise and consult a doctor.

Prevention

The prevention of the osteochondrosis of the cervical column is a healthy lifestyle:

• Physical Education and Sports (moderately).With a tendency to osteochondrosis, swimming will be the best assistant.Strengthens shoulder and neck muscles.
• Balanced diet.Include a lot of products that contain calcium, magnesium, vitamins (cottage cheese and dairy products, peas and other legumes, nuts, fish and seafood) in the diet.
• It breaks in sitting work.On each occasion, we try to knead the neck and back muscles.
• Excessive load.Do not use much and often severity (including bags on a shoulder).
• Orthopedic pillows and mattress.Use them if possible.
• No Gorde.Excess weight accelerates the development of osteochondrosis.Stop on the balance more frequently.

To control the condition of the cervical region, it is recommended to make diagnoses at least once every 2-3 years: to perform a magnetic resonance or computed tomography.

In addition, an exam of the doctors must be performed at least 1 time: a surgeon and a neuropathologist.The treatment of any disease is easier and faster if you start when the first signs appear.