Do you know the feeling of tension in your neck?Sometimes you work and automatically pull your head to the left and right because your muscles are “numb.”Or, while reading a book, you find yourself massaging your neck.Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine may hide behind these symptoms.
What is cervical osteochondrosis?
Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is a disease of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue of the cervical spine.It is characterized by changes in the structure of the cartilage of the intervertebral discs and the development of a pathological process in the surrounding tissues.
Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis
There is a set of symptoms characteristic of the disease:
- Complaints of pain (both sharp and dull, aching), which can be localized in the neck, back of the head, arms and shoulder blade.This is due to pinching of the nerve roots of the corresponding cervical segment.
- Muscle weakness and numbness in the neck and arms.
- Stiffness during neck movements and dizziness.
- Increased fatigue and decreased performance may occur.
- Hearing and visual impairments are less common (in cases of advanced disease).
The above symptoms and complaints can be combined.It depends on the specific localization and extent of the pathological process.
Why does cervical osteochondrosis appear?
The causes of cervical osteochondrosis are linked to many factors.Most often it develops due to:
- Age-related changes in cartilage tissue are a normal aging process.
- Hereditary syndromes of connective tissue development disorders: Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, joint hypermobility syndrome.
- Low physical activity and sedentary lifestyle.
- Bad posture that creates an overload in the corresponding part of the spine.
- Previous injuries to the corresponding part of the spine.
Bad postures and stereotypical habits greatly contribute to the development of the disease.They are becoming more and more common these days due to frequent use of gadgets and long hours of working in front of the computer - the neck is tilted forward and down.If you read for a long time and have incorrect postures during sleep - unsuitable pillow, mattress, sleeping on your stomach.Under the influence of these factors, the neck muscles are constantly tense.
How to treat cervical osteochondrosis?
To effectively treat cervical osteochondrosis, complex treatment methods are used, including:
- Drug therapy (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, vitamin complexes based on B vitamins, magnesium, etc.).Medications reduce pain and inflammation, reduce muscle tone.
- Therapeutic exercise.Therapeutic exercises and massages improve blood circulation, saturating the affected cells with oxygen and nutrients.Thanks to this, the pathological process stops and the pain is relieved.
- Physiotherapeutic procedures and massages.Physiotherapy can be carried out both in a medical institution and at home.For these purposes, almost all physiotherapeutic methods are used: current exposure, laser, ultrasound, magnetic radiation, shock wave therapy.The choice of method depends on the stage of the disease and the presence of contraindications.
It is advisable to create the correct stereotypical positions of the head and neck during work, as well as the correct organization of the sleeping place.It may be worth replacing the pillow with an orthopedic one.
Prevention of cervical osteochondrosis
If you follow the following prevention rules, it is possible not only to prevent the development of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, but also to stop the development of the disease:
- Regular moderate physical activity and/or physiotherapy.
- Maintain a healthy diet with enough water, calcium, magnesium and protein.
- Perform exercises for the cervical spine during prolonged sedentary work, at least once every two hours.
Gymnastics for the cervical spine
Perform the exercises slowly without sudden movements during periods of remission.In the starting position, inhale and as you bend and turn your head, exhale.Hold in each position, as if stretching your neck muscles.
- Starting position: sit up straight, look in front of you.
- Tilt your head forward, then return to the starting position.Tilt your head back, then return to the starting position.
- Tilt your head to the right, return to the starting position.Tilt your head to the left, return to the starting position.
- Turn your head to the right, then forward.Turn your head to the left, then forward.
If your health allows, you can use a more complicated version of gymnastics - the same movements, but with reverse resistance of the arms.Press your head forward and down, and press with your hands, preventing your head from leaning forward and down.Perform the exercise for 5 to 15 seconds, depending on your strength.Repeat the exercise in all directions indicated.
Important: gymnastics should not cause pain!
If there are obvious signs of the disease, it is necessary to contact a specialized specialist for timely diagnosis, determination of the stage of the disease and selection of individual treatment tactics.