Osteochondrosis is a complex of pathological anatomical and functional disorders associated with degenerative changes in the intervertebral disc. This condition develops slowly and with timely intervention, good results can be achieved with moderate conservative measures.
Causes and symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine
The vertebrae of the cervical spine experience stress associated with the movement of the neck and head. The anatomy of this segment contributes to the risk of vertebral displacement with sudden or atypical head movements, and a weak muscular corset does not protect the spine from damage. The cause of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is not fully understood, and its course is not symptomatic in most cases. This leads to the fact that most patients seek medical help quite late. Generating the development of osteochondrosis:
- impaired posture, structural instability of the spine;
- trauma, connective tissue dysplasia;
- genetic predisposition;
- working inactive or being in a forced state for a long time, lack of adequate physical activity;
- unbalanced diet, lack of vitamins and minerals in the diet.
Degenerative changes in ligaments and cartilage cause compression of arteries and nerve trunks, leading to circulatory disorders of the brain and pain syndrome. The characteristic symptoms of this condition are easily recognizable.
- Painful sensation in the back of the head, neck, shoulders. While tilting or turning the head, a special crunchy sound can be heard. Pulling pain can radiate to the thoracic area, there is a burning sensation between the shoulder blades.
- Feeling tired, insomnia, chronic fatigue and frequent headaches. With cervical osteochondrosis, the headache is concentrated in the occipital area and radiates to the neck.
- While tilting the head, there may be numbness in the hands and fingers.
- Chest pain, nausea, dizziness.
Methods of diagnosis and treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine
Diagnosis is made by an orthopedic surgeon or neurologist based on examination, X-rays or computed tomography of the spine. If an intervertebral hernia is suspected, an MRI scan will be required, and rheoencephalography and fundus examination are required to assess circulatory dysfunction.
Conservative therapy includes symptomatic measures (pain relievers, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic therapies), as well as natural cartilage tissue restoration using chondroprotectors. Also effective are acupressure, physiotherapy, therapeutic exercises.
Prevention of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine
Regular physical activity and exercise to strengthen the back muscular system effectively maintains the normal state of the spinal structure. Daily gymnastics and monitoring the position of the neck and buttocks during working hours help normalize blood circulation, relieving excessive pressure on certain segments of the spine.
You also need to monitor dietary diversity and avoid being overweight. To activate metabolic processes and relieve muscle cramps, massage treatments, which must be repeated at intervals of 2-3 times a year, help.
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