Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine without surgery

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is a disease characterized by damage to the intervertebral discs.

Cervical osteochondrosis is one of the most common diseases in the world. Statistically, about 60% of the world's population faced it, as modern humans suffer from physical inactivity and also spend an enormous amount of time on sedentary work. Osteochondrosis manifests itself in the form of damage to the intervertebral cartilage as well as reactive processes in adjacent tissues.

The vertebrae in the cervical spine are much smaller than the vertebrae in other spines, but the load on them is not less. We constantly turn our heads, which is why the neck is in a systematic motion. In the initial stages, the disease is difficult to recognize and the basic manifestations of the disease are often ignored by patients. The result is the launch of cervical collar osteochondrosis, which significantly complicates the further treatment process.

A modern clinic successfully treats osteochondrosis of the neck with non-surgical methods using correction and kinesiotherapy.

neck pain with osteochondrosis

Causes of osteochondrosis of the neck

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of osteochondrosis:

  • Physical inactivity is the main cause that precedes the development of a dangerous disease. The complete absence of moderate physical activity leads to the breakdown of the musculoskeletal system. Inadequate daily activity is not just an issue for office workers and drivers. People who prefer to spend their free time at the computer or watching TV suffer from hypodynamics.
  • Excessive physical activity. Most often, professional athletes who are exposed to axial loads on the back suffer from this. Working on the edge of opportunity also threatens novice athletes who train unattended by a professional trainer and perform exercises with incorrectly set technique.
  • Negative factors for posture are walking in high heels and in uncomfortable shoes, scoliosis, flat feet as well as incorrect posture during sleep.
  • Being overweight puts an excessive strain on the spine, leading to displacement of the vertebrae and wear on the cartilage structures.
  • Arthritis.
  • Disorders of the endocrine system.
  • Stress.
  • Hypothermia in the neck.
  • A sedentary lifestyle (such as drivers and office workers) or excessive physical activity (such as athletes).

As a rule, under the influence of these factors a strain on the cervical vertebrae occurs, causing the formation of muscle spasms. As a result, the blood circulation process is disrupted and the metabolism deteriorates, leading to degenerative changes.

An interesting fact: the risk of developing such a disorder as osteochondrosis is largely associated with evolutionary changes in the human body. It's about walking upright. Throughout the life cycle, the spine performs the function of the "core" of our body. The vertebrae that press on the cartilage discs gradually wear them out, so that the connective tissue breaks down. Because of this, osteochondrosis often manifests itself in old age.

Symptoms and treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine will largely depend on the causes that provoked the onset of the disease. To develop an individual therapeutic plan, physicians perform a wide range of studies. Self-medication for neck pain is strongly discouraged. Improper massage, medication or traditional medicine methods can aggravate the situation and lead to a host of irreparable consequences!

symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis

Cervical osteochondrosis: symptoms and treatment

The manifestations of a dangerous disease depend on 2 main factors:

  1. Type of load on the cervical spine.
  2. The site of damage to the cartilage structure of the intervertebral disc.

The nerve roots perform a large number of functions, therefore the symptoms of damage to their individual parts can vary greatly. In addition, you need to take into account the stage of development of the disease. There are 4 of them, each of which is heavier than the previous one.

Cervical osteochondrosis 1 degree

This degree is called preclinical and is poorly expressed, which is why patients attribute symptoms to stress, lack of sleep, and other seemingly frivolous problems. The spine begins to defend itself against "destructive" movements and excessive stress, so people begin to feel discomfort.

The main symptoms are:

  • headache
  • discomfort in neck, shoulders and arms
  • slight visual impairment
  • a slight decrease in motor activity in the neck

One of the most noticeable symptoms in the preclinical stage of cervical osteochondrosis is the constant tension of the neck muscles. The muscles overexert themselves quickly, which leads to a feeling of tolerable pain, as well as a crunch when turning / tilting the head.

Since the above problems do not cause much discomfort, most patients prefer to let the situation go its course. In fact, it is already necessary to begin treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, because the earlier therapy begins, the more effective it will be.

2nd degree cervical osteochondrosis

In this case, patients begin to feel noticeable pain when they tilt / turn their head. Often, unpleasant sensations spread to arms, shoulders and hands. Problems with the state of the nervous system begin to emerge: a person becomes irritable, absent, his daily ability to work is noticeably reduced. The basic symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in women are almost identical to the symptoms of problems with the reproductive system (weakness, fatigue, apathetic mood and more).

Despite the obvious signs of the development of the disease, it is still possible to get rid of osteochondrosis of the neck. First of all, doctors are working to eliminate the risk of hernia, which leads to a deterioration of limb mobility and blood supply to the brain.

The main symptoms are:

  • severe neck pain
  • noise in the ears
  • visual impairment
  • decreased sensitivity of the skin on the shoulders and arms
  • deterioration of tendon reflexes

Cervical osteochondrosis 3 degrees

At this stage of development, the disease is already considered to be neglected. Treatment of stage 3 cervical osteochondrosis is more difficult as the destruction / deformation of the cartilage structures is often irreversible. The pain syndrome becomes stronger, which is associated with the active development of hernia and the friction of the bone tissue of the vertebrae against each other.

In addition to pain, the patient experiences weakness and complains of dizziness. The reason for this is the violation of large vessels and nerves that pass through the spine. The brain receives insufficient amounts of nourishment and oxygen, which can lead to blurring of consciousness. The pain radiates to the upper extremities, there is a feeling of weakness in the arms. Another clear sign of grade 3 osteochondrosis is loss of sensitivity in the fingers, as well as tingling in them.

The main symptoms are:

  • increased pain
  • hernia of the cervical spine
  • very weak tendon reflexes
  • paralysis of the upper limbs

Cervical osteochondrosis grade 4

The cartilage tissue of the intervertebral discs has already undergone major changes due to destruction. In stage 4 of the disease, in 99% of cases there are protrusions and hernias, which have a significant negative effect on the patient's condition. The body begins independent recovery and "builds up" tissue in areas of disc damage. As a result, the column itself loses its mobility.

When the nerves and blood vessels are compressed, the person loses the coordination of movements. Drowsiness, apathy and pain only intensify. Patients often complain of irritating tinnitus. In addition, stage 4 of cervical osteochondrosis threatens a number of the following consequences:

  1. Cerebral ischemia, the risk of developing spinal stroke. This is due to strong compression of vertebral arteries.
  2. Decreased perception of the outside world and systematic loss of consciousness. The cause is constriction of the blood vessels and insufficient blood supply to the cerebral cortex.
  3. Fatal outcome. A catastrophic consequence can occur as a result of jamming of the spinal cord.

The main symptoms are:

  • depression of brain activity
  • lack of coordination
  • increased dizziness
  • paralysis
  • hearing and vision loss
  • angina pectoris, shortness of breath

How to cure cervical osteochondrosis: the diagnostic stage

Before starting to eliminate the disease, doctors perform a comprehensive examination of the patient's cervical spine. This is necessary to establish the fact of the presence and neglect of the disease. Diagnosis consists of several phases:

  1. X-ray. This is a visual way to determine the location of the vertebrae, as well as changes in their mobility.
  2. Laboratory research. Using tests, doctors establish disorders in the spine and also make a definitive diagnosis.
  3. CT. This is a modern technique for assessing fractures and changes in the height of intervertebral discs. Computed tomography also helps track the instability of individual vertebrae.
  4. MR. The presented phase of the study is performed to determine the condition of the nerve roots, the quality of blood circulation as well as pathological changes in the cartilage / bone structures.
  5. Differential diagnostics. This includes an ultrasound scan, a cardiogram and several other procedures. They are necessary so as not to confuse osteochondrosis with other diseases that have identical symptoms. These include diseases of the urinary tract, all kinds of deformities of the spine, hip injuries as well as disorders of the central nervous system.

Determination of symptoms and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is impossible without a comprehensive diagnosis. The faster it is performed, the more effective the treatment will be. If you find symptoms of the disease, contact your doctor as soon as possible. He will provide referrals to appointments with specialists with narrower profiles: a neurologist and an orthopedist. In some cases, it may be necessary to consult a cardiologist if the signs of the disease overlap with the suspicion of angina pectoris or ischemia of the heart muscle.

the structure of the cervical vertebrae

In modern clinics, diagnosis and successful treatment of osteochondrosis of the neck is performed on the basis of the use of kinesiotherapy. Using this healing technique, patients who perform a set of physical exercises on special exercise machines for recovery significantly improve their health.

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in women and men basic methods

A high-quality and stable result in the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine can only be achieved with an integrated approach to the problem. The effectiveness of recovery depends largely on the mood of the patient, who will need to completely revise lifestyle, diet, sleep and wakefulness.

It is by no means possible to independently treat osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in women and men, as the basic symptoms of the disease can signal the development of a completely different disease. Drugs chosen without the knowledge of the doctor can seriously aggravate the situation. Even an elemental intake of painkillers does not always have the expected effect, proving once again the need for prior consultation with a specialist.

Elimination of exacerbations of pain

The disease often manifests itself in the form of a stinging, aching and pulling pain syndrome. The doctor's main task is to relieve your ailment, therefore specialists prescribe first and foremost:

  • Anti-inflammatory drugs;
  • Vitamins;
  • Analgesics;
  • Chondroprotectors.

The last category of drugs is aimed at restoring cartilage structures, which is especially important in advanced stages of the disease. In addition, patients are prescribed medication to relieve muscle spasms and improve blood flow in the body.

Therapeutic gymnastic exercises

Physiotherapy specialists know how to get rid of cervical osteochondrosis in the most affordable ways. Exercise therapy is one of the most effective methods of treating osteochondrosis, which can be used even at home. The intensity of the exercise in this case does not matter. The regularity of moderate physical activity will help to achieve the result. Here is the effect of training:

  1. Strengthening the muscles in the neck, which are responsible for supporting weakened vertebrae.
  2. Stimulation and normalization of the blood supply in the body, which is especially important for the cerebral cortex.
  3. Increasing the overall tone, charging energy, restoring a person's productivity and work capacity.

Exercise therapy classes are allowed on a daily basis. The set of exercises includes all kinds of head rotations and tilt. With the right physical condition, the degree of difficulty increases and hand movements are associated with the work. The advantage of therapeutic gymnastic elements is that they can be used even in the workplace. But keep in mind that they can only be performed after the acute pain syndrome has been eliminated.

As an extra strain, doctors recommend that patients visit the pool, as swimming relieves stress on the spine and relieves stress from the intervertebral discs. Shown and work with light dumbbells to strengthen the shoulder belt.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy methods are numerous:

  1. Electrophoresis.
  2. Magneto, laser and shock wave therapy.
  3. Mud therapy.
  4. Medical baths and showers.

The above are just the main therapeutic methods aimed at restoring the blood supply to the affected spine, eliminating inflammation, pain and slowing down the process of neck ossification.

Massage

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis of the spine with massage is widespread throughout the world. However, this method must be used with great caution, as a harsh and incompetent impact on the damaged parts of the neck can lead to a worsening of the condition. Before making an appointment with a masseur, you should consult your doctor.

Thanks to the influence of the hands on the sore area, muscle tone decreases, leading to getting rid of painful spasms. It also improves blood circulation, restores the clarity of thought and the general well-being of the patient.

Surgery

The last stage of the development of the disease leads to the formation of severe intervertebral hernia as well as a narrowing of the lumen of the spine. Treatment of the patient in this case may require surgery. The surgeon determines if surgery is necessary. He also determines the complex of preparatory measures, the period of postoperative recovery and rehabilitation.

Most surgeries involve removal of the resulting hernia, as well as replacement of damaged vertebrae.

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in the clinic

Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in a professional clinic involves the use of exclusively non-surgical methods. Specialists work according to a unique technique developed on the basis of the principles of kinesiotherapy. Patients who turn to us for help are treated with a set of physical exercises in a specially equipped room.

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis takes place according to an individually developed program. The therapeutic effect is not only on a specific part of the spine, but also on the internal organs. The drug-free and non-surgical course of treatment is difficult, but we provide comprehensive support to patients, help them become more determined and reconsider their attitude to their own illness.

This is what the healing process is made up of:

  1. Exercises in the rehabilitation room at least 2-3 times a week.
  2. Parterre therapeutic gymnastics.
  3. Thermotherapy according to individual indications.
  4. Pain relief with ice massage.
  5. Therapeutic / restorative massage.
  6. Adaptive exercises for work at home.
  7. Microanatomical studies of ultrasound to track recovery over time.
  8. Personal consultations with the specialists of the Chinese Therapy Clinic.
prevention of cervical osteochondrosis

Prevention of osteochondrosis

Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in conjunction with modern medicine includes many effective methods. But it is much better not to let this problem show up at all than to deal with its elimination. There is a set of preventive measures that will minimize the risk of the appearance and development of a dangerous disorder:

  1. Take a 10-minute hot shower daily. A systematic visit to the baths / saunas is also recommended. Please note that these recommendations are only suitable for people without cardiovascular health problems.
  2. Swim and go for regular walks in the fresh air at a leisurely pace. Physical inactivity is one of the main causes of diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
  3. Reject excessive physical exertion at the limit of human abilities. This is especially true when working out in gyms. Critical axial loads on the spine lead to protrusions.
  4. Try to avoid backlash, especially if you are over 30 years old.
  5. Review your diet. Try to exclude confectionery, flour, moderate salt and sugar intake. Reducing the calorie content of foods allows you to avoid gaining weight in excess, which puts additional stress on the spine.
  6. If you work in an office and spend a lot of time at the computer, be sure to buy a special chair with lumbar and headrest support. Try to do basic warm-up exercises every 60 minutes.
  7. In case of pain after waking up, consider buying an orthopedic mattress and pillow. If possible, get a bed with a flat, hard surface.
  8. To avoid degenerative and dystrophic changes in the cervical spine, visit a professional massage therapist at least 2-3 times a year. Neck and collar massage is one of the most effective preventative measures.
  9. Women should minimize walking on high-heeled shoes as this disrupts the natural position of the spine. With diagnosed flat feet, it is recommended to buy special shoes or insoles, as orthopedic products correct the position of the foot and relieve unnecessary stress from the spine.

As well as:

  • you should visit the bath regularly
  • you have to give up bodybuilding which can contribute to the protrusion of the cervical disc
  • Gentle exercise can be a good prevention of disease

Result

Treatment of osteochondrosis in a professional clinic takes place under the strict supervision of highly qualified specialists. Physicians adhere to an integrated approach in working with patients and even deal with advanced stages of the disease. If you notice symptoms of osteochondrosis, you do not need to endure, self-medicate and delay a visit to the doctor. Start your journey to a healthy, happy life!