Cervical osteochondrosis is a disease of the spine that develops against a background of degeneration and dystrophy of the disc tissue in the neck. The disease can be complicated by paralysis and paralysis of the hand, ischemia and stroke. It is for this reason that the detection of any of its symptoms should be the basis for a visit to an orthopedist, neurologist or chiropractor who knows exactly how to treat cervical osteochondrosis and follow up according to the regimen of his choice.
Cervical osteochondrosis and its causes
Osteochondrosis of the cervical region is a multi-causal pathology. It can be caused by:
- trauma;
- decreased physical activity;
- Sitting for long periods of time (for example, while driving or working at a computer);
- increase the load on the spine;
- Innate characteristics of spinal structure;
- metabolic diseases;
- Improper nutrition;
- alcoholism, smoking;
- infectious diseases;
- poisoning;
- low temperature;
- Salt deposits appear in the consular area.
In addition to this, factors that increase the likelihood of pathology are autoimmune diseases and hormonal disorders.
Cervical Spine Symptoms: Symptoms
The main symptom of cervical osteochondrosis is severe pain in the back of the head and neck. The unpleasant sensation radiates to the shoulder straps and arms, and becomes more pronounced when sneezing, coughing, or trying to turn your head. Secondary symptoms of the disease are:
- general weakness, decreased body tone;
- increased fatigue;
- Headache;
- numbness of hands;
- Dizziness;
- loss of consciousness;
- noise in the ear;
- Crunchy in the neck area when moving.
In later stages, the patient's hearing and vision may decline. In some patients, the development of the pathology is accompanied by the appearance of chest pain.
How to treat cervical osteochondrosis
Conservative treatment of degenerative dystrophic diseases in the upper spine tissue. Traumatologists – orthopedists, chiropractors and neurologists recommend to patients:
- Make sure the motor rests in the affected area (special device Shants collar is recommended for this);
- taking NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, vitamin and mineral complexes;
- the use of narcotic creams and ointments;
- Corticosteroid injections (with severe pain syndrome);
- engage in therapeutic exercise, swimming;
- follow a diet that increases protein and fiber intake;
- Participate in physical therapy, manual therapy, massage, acupuncture and other courses within the time prescribed by the doctor;
- Avoid stressful situations, hypothermia, neck injuries, prolonged exposure to uncomfortable positions.
Patients are referred for surgery if conservative treatments do not help to resolve the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis. During surgery, the doctor:
- removal of the affected disc or its fragments;
- Install implants that replace damaged parts;
- stabilize the vertebrae;
- Laser repair of damaged tissue.
Prompt treatment of cervical osteochondrosis can reduce the intensity of pain, slow the progression of the disease, restore the patient's ability to work, and avoid dangerous complications of the disease.