Osteochondrosis is a complex of pathoanatomical and functional disorders associated with degenerative changes in the intervertebral disc.This situation develops slowly, and timely intervention and simple conservative measures can achieve good results.
Causes and symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis
The cervical vertebrae experience greater stress associated with neck and head movements.The anatomy of this segment increases the risk of vertebral displacement during sudden or atypical head movements, and weak muscle corsets do not protect the spine from injury.The cause of cervical osteochondrosis is not fully understood, and in most cases the course is asymptomatic.This results in most patients seeking medical help very late.Osteochondrosis occurs due to the following reasons:
- Poor posture and unstable spinal structure;
- Trauma, connective tissue dysplasia;
- genetic predisposition;
- Sedentary work or long-term forced posture, lack of sufficient physical activity;
- Unbalanced diet, lack of vitamins and trace elements in the diet.
Degenerative changes in ligaments and cartilage lead to compression of arteries and nerve trunks, causing cerebrovascular accidents and pain.The characteristic symptoms of this condition are easy to recognize.
- There is pain in the back of the head, neck, and shoulders.You can hear a characteristic crunching sound when you tilt or turn your head.Persistent pain radiates into the chest area and a burning sensation can be felt between the shoulder blades.
- Feeling low energy, insomnia, chronic fatigue, and frequent headaches.Patients with cervical osteochondrosis have headaches concentrated in the occipital region and radiating to both sides of the neck.
- You may feel numbness in your hands and fingers when you tilt your head.
- Chest pain, nausea, dizziness.
Diagnosis and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis
An orthopedic surgeon or neurologist makes a diagnosis based on a spine exam, X-ray, or computed tomography scan.If an intervertebral hernia is suspected, an MRI is performed, and a flow pattern and fundus examination are performed to evaluate for functional circulatory impairment.
Conservative treatment includes symptomatic treatment (analgesia, anti-inflammatory treatment, antispasmodics) and the restoration of natural cartilage tissue with the help of medications.Acupressure, physical therapy and therapeutic exercises are also effective.
Prevent cervical osteochondrosis
Regular physical activities and exercises can strengthen the strength of the back muscles and effectively maintain the normal state of the spinal structure.Daily gymnastics and monitoring the position of the neck and back during the work day help normalize blood circulation and relieve excessive stress on various segments of the spine.
It is also necessary to monitor dietary diversity and prevent excess weight.Massage sessions should be repeated 2-3 times a year and help activate metabolic processes and eliminate muscle spasms.