Cervical osteochondrosis is a disease in which the pulp between the vertebrae, acting as a shock absorber, becomes a ossified fabric.
Pain in the neck?Dizziness?Crunch?Cervical shots?“Is osteochondrosis really ...” - you think, gaining a request on the Internet.Without panic!Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is not a sentence, it can be prevented, slowed down and even cured.How?Let's figure it out.
Introduction
Unfortunately, cervical osteochondrosis is a quiet and insidious disease.You may not suspect its existence, until at some point you feel the muscle spasm and pain in the neck.Often, dizziness and numbness of the limbs are added.
The reason for such seemingly unrelated phenomena in the complex nature of osteochondrosis.
What is osteochondrosis: from the general ...
Osteochondrosis is a disease of the spine in which intervertebral discs are damaged, performing the role of shock absorbers.Squeezing and unclenching, they give the spine elasticity and elasticity, while allowing the body to maintain a balance in the process of movement.With their partial or complete destruction, this balance is lost, which inevitably affects the motor activity of a person.The cause of such changes is often the physical wear and deformation of the disk or, more simply, its “aging”.At the same time, the rest of our body can serve us faithfully for many years.
It is generally accepted that osteochondrosis is an age disease.However, in recent years, the disease has been noticeably “younger”: in the risk zone there are 25 years old and even younger.The fault of everything is a sedentary lifestyle, malnutrition and uneven physical activity on the body.Moreover, statistics show that women are sick more often than osteochondrosis.First of all, this is due to anatomical characteristics and emotional background.However, the disease is harder in men.
... to the private - cervical osteochondrosis
Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is most common.The fact is that it is in the neck that the majority of vessels and nerve endings are concentrated, while the vertebrae themselves here are much smaller (approximately half compared to the lumbar department), and the muscle corset is tangibly weaker.
Together with the high mobility and proximity of the spinal cord, the neck of our body needs increased attention.
Why is cervical osteochondrosis dangerous?
Alas, the danger of cervical osteochondrosis is justified anatomically - the vertebral arteries pass through the cervical region, which saturate important brain centers in the rear parts of the brain.And any malfunctions and violations of blood supply can be irreversible in nature, ranging from the pathological curvature of the spine (lordosis of the neck) up to the complete loss of motor ability, stroke and even death.
Fortunately, it is almost impossible to not notice the symptoms of an impending disaster: problems with coordination, a strong deterioration in vision and hearing, frequent dizziness and loss of consciousness ...
If, coupled with regular cervical pain, you noticed these signs at yourself, consult a doctor immediately!
Diagnosis and symptoms of cervical spine osteochondrosis
Osteochondrosis is a serious disease, and only a qualified specialist, that is, a vertebrologist who specializes in solving problems with the spine, orthopedist or neurologist can diagnose it.
The most accurate ways to diagnose cervical osteochondrosis: x-ray, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic nuclear resonance (MRI), which allow not only the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, but also other concomitant changes in the body.
When a number of the following symptoms appear, immediately seek professional advice to the doctor.
- dull, aching, intense pain in the neck and nape
- cervicals, crunch when turning the head
- dizziness, "veil" before my eyes, fainting
- headache
- Nausea, vomiting
- Numbness of the limbs
- noise in the ears, visual impairment
- General muscle weakness
Pain for osteochondrosis is often aching, given to the head and are accompanied by numbness of the arms and legs.This is caused, first of all, by a pinching of the nerve endings and an increase in intracranial pressure.
Nature of osteochondrosis
Like any disease, osteochondrosis of the spine has several stages of development.
For a better understanding of the processes occurring in the body, we propose to first understand the structure of the disk itself, and then analyze what changes are characteristic of each stage of osteochondrosis.
The vertebral disk itself consists of several parts: a pulpo -bunken jacket nucleus (inside), a fibrous ring (outer shell) and hyaline cartilage separating the disk from the vertebra and performing the function of the power.
The pulpic nucleus is rich in water, and it is it that is responsible for the depreciation, adjusting to the center of gravity, squeezing and moving like a mercury ball.The fibrous ring surrounding it, on the contrary, has a solid structure and consists of intertwined fibers.Since the main task of the fibrous ring is to protect the core from damage, it is it that takes the “blow” at itself at high loads.
Stages of osteochondrosis
Traditionally, four stages of osteochondrosis are distinguished.
Cervical osteochondrosis of the 1st degree - preclinical stage
This is the early stage of the disease when the so -called “drying out” of the disk occurs: its height and elasticity are reduced.
At the same time, there are no structural changes yet - however, as well as symptoms and, accordingly, complaints.You may not feel discomfort;The only "harbinger" may turn out to be morning stiffness and salt deposits in the neck.Although, you see, with our way of life, these sensations are rather the norm.
Cervical osteochondrosis of the 2nd degree - the beginning of structural changes
Here irreversible changes begin in the pulpic core - necrosis and destruction caused by a violation of metabolic processes - simultaneously with the formation of cracks in a fibrous ring.
The body begins to send SOS signals in the form of a sharp pain in the neck, decreased endurance, and rapid fatigue.
Cervical osteochondrosis of the 3rd degree - progressive discos
The tightness of the fibrous ring is disturbed, as a result of which the pulpoose core “protrudes” into the spinal canal through the cracks formed.
If a complete rupture of the outer shell does not occur, the intervertebral disc can still be restored.This process is called the protrusion of the spine and is successfully treated on an outpatient basis.At the same time, you feel constant pain in the neck and all back, progressing during loads and staying in an uncomfortable position.
In the case of the complete destruction of the fibrous ring, problems with coordination, dizziness, and nausea are added to pain;There is a risk of disability.It is necessary to quickly seek medical help!
Cervical osteochondrosis of the 4th degree - regeneration
As a result of irreversible processes between the vertebrae, growths (osteophytes) are formed that block the mobility of the joints.The pulpoose nucleus is replaced by a scar tissue, the nerve endings are injured, a cure is possible only surgically.
Paradoxically, in terms of well -being, you can feel noticeable improvements - the spine again acquires the ability to take loads.However, the pain and limited motor activity will subsequently only intensify.
The causes of osteochondrosis
Alas, speaking of the causes of such a difficult disease as osteochondrosis, you have to keep in mind many factors: from external conditions to physiological predisposition.
How to understand that you are at risk?Mentally put a checkmark opposite each of the points suitable for you and your lifestyle.
- Have you had spinal injuries?
- Is there excess weight (degree of obesity)?
- Explored by bad habits (smoking, alcohol use), regular stress?
- Do you suffer from chronic infectious diseases, metabolic disorders?
- Is your work related to hard physical labor?
- Have you been diagnosed with posture and/or flat feet?
- Do you experience regular loads on the spine?
If at least one of the questions you answered in the affirmative, alas, you are at risk.This is bad news.But there is also good: osteochondrosis of the cervical spine can be stopped, cured and even prevented with timely diagnosis and the beginning of proper prevention.
How to prevent osteochondrosis
There are a number of preventive measures that we recommend observing for the game “ahead of the lead” with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine.
Step 1. Get up!
Are you leading a sedentary lifestyle?Sedentary work, many hours of stay at the computer, irregular and malnutrition, lack of sleep, stress ... is familiar?
All this contributes to the "stagnant" processes in the body and provokes the initial stage of osteochondrosis.
To avoid the progression of the disease, reasonably approach the daily routine, take regular breaks (every hour for five minutes) and take care of your health more.Believe me, very soon you will say “thank you” yourself!
Take a rule: put reminders (or in particularly “neglected” cases - an alarm clock) so that you do not miss the moment in working excitement ... When you just need to get up and go.
Step 2. Take care of your own convenience!
By convenience, we mean the physical signals that the body gives.Listen and take care of yourself!
First, avoid excessive and unreasonable loads.If you are a regular of the gym, dose weight, do not miss the warm -up and follow the regularity of training.
Secondly, give up uncomfortable shoes.We do not urge ruthlessly to get rid of your favorite output shoes or boots - let them remain for special occasions.It is important that these "special cases" do not become your norm of life in 24/7 mode.“For every day” choose shoes with a comfortable block that does not cause discomfort and does not affect posture and gait.
Thirdly, do not save on furniture and sleeping accessories.If the office chair is categorically not suitable for you, agree on replacement or take care of your own comfort yourself.Subsequently, this one -time investment can save you from serious regular expenses.
Use only anatomically correct furniture that reduces the load on the spine.For a house, choose a bed with a hard mattress and a comfortable pillow suitable in density and height.Anatomical or ordinary - you decide, becauseMuch depends on the characteristics of your body.
Step 3. Do not forget about prevention!
Warned - means armed, isn't it?
If you feel periodic fatigue and pain in the neck and back, or, conversely, want to avoid them, we recommend a simple set of exercises, especially effective at the initial (preclinical) stage of osteochondrosis.
Gymnastics for cervical osteochondrosis
You can perform gymnastics for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine both at home and directly at the workplace.
- Sit evenly, straighten your back, relax your hands and lower it along the body.Turn your head alternately to the right and left, about 90 degrees (or how much the joints allow).Move smoothly, avoid sudden movements.
Make 8 repetitions for the first time, and in the future gradually increase the number of turns to 15 in each direction. - In the same position, tilt your head forward, pressing the chin to the chest, and back, taking the back of the head to the back of the neck.Also start with 8 repetitions and increase to 15 times.
- Next, go to your shoulders.First, raise both shoulders up (in the direction of the ears), hold for a couple of seconds and lower it back.So 8 repetitions.
Then move your shoulders alternately: right up, left down, shift - 8 repetitions. - Put your palm on your forehead and press with a simultaneous tilt of your head forward.A pause 10 seconds - and so 8 times in a row.
After the end of the complex, be sure to massage the neck to relieve voltage.
Attention!If you feel severe discomfort during exercises, consult with a specialist and carefully dose the load!
Cervical osteochondrosis: treatment
Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine can be narrowly focused or complex, combining several components at once.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy for cervical osteochondrosis is a method of local effects directly on the focus of inflammation.The therapeutic effect is achieved due to the improvement of blood circulation and metabolic processes.The pain in the neck stops, the severity of the symptoms decreases.
There are many options for physiotherapy for cervical osteochondrosis: electrotherapy, exposure to a magnet, laser, water and mud procedures, electrophoresis, acupuncture, as well as moderate heating of the inflamed area.
Before you sign up for procedures, carefully study the contraindications and consult your doctor.
Massage
With cervical osteochondrosis, massage of the collar area helps well.You can sign up for sessions to the masseur or do massage yourself using professional vibration massagers.
Medicines and diet
Among the most commonly used in osteochondrosis of medications are anti -inflammatory drugs, painkillers, antispasmodics, antioxidants, as well as drugs aimed at improving blood circulation and metabolic processes.The spectrum of drugs includes tablets, creams, ointments and solutions for intramuscular injection.
Remember, only a doctor can competently choose a medical drug!
A balanced diet will help increase the effectiveness of medicines and improve the overall tone of the body.Limit the consumption of fatty, spicy, smoked food, salt.Give preference to vegetables and fruits, properly cooked meat, fish and dairy products.Add nuts and honey to the diet.And drink more fluids.
Even if osteochondrosis does not threaten you, a balanced diet will positively affect the general well -being and state of the body.You will see, after a couple of weeks you will notice amazing changes!Checked on your own experience!