Cervical osteochondrosis - causes, signs and treatment

Osteochondrosis of the cervical region

Osteochondrosis of the cervical region is an intervertebral disc disease that consists of abnormal metabolic disorders.When the pulp that acts as a shock absorption, begins to harden due to the active processes of osification, there is a discomfort associated with extinguishing the nerve roots.

Without timely treatment, osteochondrosis of the cervical region produces serious consequences, which impedes normal life.You need to know what symptoms you have to start with the alarm.

Neck osteochondrosis - Classification

The problem of the disease has been identified in a timely manner.The patient has classic neurological manifestations - headache, dizziness, flying into the eyes, shortness of breath, neck pain, chest.The patient may have limbs, which is why he or she will visit a cardiologist, neurologist, therapist or orthopedist without understanding the real causes of trouble.

The disease is physiological because the human spine, in the vertical position, is forced to withstand long static loads.With age, bone tissue weakens, which adversely affects the health of the spine.Destructive and in -depth processes develop, which results in the appearance of osteochondrosis.Cervical osteochondrosis is more common because the neck has good mobility, which causes this section to cause traumatic harm.

The disease is one of the most common among spine diseases.Osteochondrosis will also reduce age.If 20 years ago, people aged 40 to 60 are complaining about back pain, now people aged 30 to 40 complain.Such an unwanted change is related to deteriorating health indicators, which is caused by a seductive lifestyle, obesity, and reducing nutrition.

The pathology is associated not only with physiological negative changes but also with the pathological state of the body.Physiological processes are caused by the formation of destructive processes against the backdrop of body and cartilage.Over time, natural unnecessary changes occur, which cannot be avoided - metabolic processes disorder, calcium reserves dissolve.Abnormal factors - Intervertebral discs cartilage and wear associated with unhealthy lifestyle management.

Also, the abnormal course of intervertebral discs and elastic content osification can be complicated by ligament apparatus, abnormal spine wear (spondylosis), pressing (type of hernia) and calcium salt deposits.

Symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine

In the early stages, it is difficult to identify clear signs of the disease, as the symptoms are paroxysmal, sometimes completely passing.Diagnosis is more often difficult in patients who periodically use painkillers.By reducing pain sensitivity, the disease is disguised and becomes more difficult to diagnose its diagnosis.Usually, the patient does not believe that he has problems until the disease reaches the terminal stage.In addition to neck and back pain, blood pressure dizziness and jumping.

Dizziness for osteochondrosis occurs periodically, but does not always indicate this disease specifically.Usually, this condition is observed by the development of inflammatory processes in the ears, with spasms of brain vessels, as well as in the light of innervation.Sometimes such a state is linked to diseases of the cardiovascular system, coordination of movements or anemia.If the patient has periodic dizziness accompanied by weakness, absence of air and weakness, you should seek medical attention more.

What are the signs of dizziness is the cause of the patient's emergency hospitalization:

  1. The upper shoulder girdle is glued to one side, accompanied by parallel paralyzing of the facial muscles.
  2. Migraine attacks, very severe headaches in the background of general hardship.
  3. Coordination problems of movements.
  4. Disruption of consciousness, its loss.

Headache is one of the most common and nonspecific signs that occurs in the wake of cervical osteochondrosis.Most often, tension headaches occur in women.This condition is associated with hormonal background characteristics (excess estradiol in the body compared to men) and vascular weakness, which is also associated with hormonal status (increased progesterone soothes vessels, which are less durable).

Along with osteochondrosis, headaches are found due to the frequent seizures of brain vessels, nerve root molding, and indicators of increased intracranial pressure.Atechondrous pain attacks often resemble hypertension, IBS or stroke attack (it is important to keep in mind that the more people, the higher the risk of pathologies).

If the patient has other diseases associated with a impaired function of the heart muscle, then with osteochondrosis attacks, there is also pain in the heart.Usually, in people with cardiovascular disease, angina attacks, blood pressure increases, extrasystol, arrhythmia, and chest pain.If you use first aid medications, the patient will not become better and last for a long time, calling an ambulance to take the patient to the hospital with a cardiologist.

Pain syndrome for osteochondrosis

The characteristics of pain syndrome should be described separately.Unpleasant sensations do not always arise in the back area or back of the head.There are attacks, pain that is more often localized in completely different places.Cervical pain often emits hands or shoulders.Distinctive signs of unpleasant sensations are the appearance of discomfort, as soon as the sudden movements are awakened.An example of this is sneezing or laughter.Even with such mild physiological reactions, pain syndrome can be attacked.

If the pathology is not too neglected, unpleasant sensations will soon disappear, and discomfort is often accompanied by crispy in the cervical spine.Often the disease occurs in people with cervical lordosis - a pathophysiological condition associated with increased neck flexibility.If a person often corrects his / her back, this condition can occur.The more the abnormal condition, the worse the patient is because the pain returns over time, intense, more and more severe suffering.

What feelings and signs of pain describe patients most often:

  1. Pain from the "depth" of the neck.
  2. When turning on its side, there is a strong sense of crunch or shredded.
  3. When unpleasant sensations are observed, the patient has firmness in the cervical region, accompanied by muscle weakness.

According to statistics, the disease is most often affected by 6 and 7 cervical spine.The disease is also found in any vertebrate part of the cervix.

Development of arterial hypertension with cervical osteochondrosis

There is an obvious connection between a particular disease and pressure.The cervical vertebrates also penetrate the nerve endings and the vascular canal.If the spine is gathered on the surface of the spine, then abnormal weakening of nerve endings and blood vessels.As a result, the microspose becomes and the patient has a characteristic deterioration in well -being.

Hypertension, which is found in the background, has special differences:

  1. Persistent, severe headache is the most characteristic feature of the shoe.
  2. Chest pain inhalation, discomfort in the limbs.
  3. Reduce sensitivity to the collar zone.
  4. Sharp pressure jump after nervous tension, excessive muscles, or after a long stay in the antalgic posture.

Causes of osteochondrosis of the neck

For the most part, this disease is associated with natural aging processes and the formation of musculoskeletal system pathologies.It is noteworthy that not all people of old age suffer from osteochondrosis.Usually, this disease threatens obesity that leads to a seductive lifestyle.

Pathology -causing provocation factors include:

  1. The lifestyle of life, including hypodynamics.
  2. The occupation of uncomfortable posture related to long, static stress.An example of this is the long sitting on the desk, without maintaining proper posing.
  3. Obesity or excess weight of the body.Large weight is not always related to fat deposits.In bodybuilders or massive athletes, there is often an increased body weight index.The recommended weight exaggeration is full not only for premature wear of the spine, but also for overloading the cardiovascular system.
  4. Chronic stress associated with nervous overdose.
  5. Previously affected by head injuries or neck dislocation.
  6. Local Hypothermia - Neck Explosion.
  7. The presence of an abnormal autoimmune process in the body, which adversely affects the cartilage state, bone tissue condition.Examples are rheumatoid arthritis, leading to the development of such diseases, such as Shokh.
  8. The presence of congenital anomalies in the structure of the cartilage spine.

The presence of dosed physical effort, proper nutrition, and the rejection of bad habits are the best way to reduce the risks of osteochondrosis exacerbations.

Stages of development of the disease

There are several stages of development of abnormal condition with the power of manifestation of osteochondrosis symptoms:

  1. The preclinical stage is the first.Initially, it is difficult to notice signs of the disease, as there are still no specific symptoms.The only experienced specialist may notice is the smoothness of the cervical lordosis.As a result of such a slight change, it is possible to experience minimal discomfort with a sharp turn on the side of the neck.Over time, tension, pain in the lumbar region and posterior muscles can occur, as the cervical area often catches one lumbar.If the patient is lucky and osteochondrosis is found at an early stage, then you can make a diet change and adjust the lifestyle so that the pathology does not continue to progress.Patients often neglect this stage, as discomfort rarely causes significant changes in the body.
  2. The second stage occurs if the preclinical quality is successfully neglected.Usually, at this point, there are signs of instability of the cervical region.At this point, the patient is already concerned about pain syndrome.Unpleasant sensations are often given to the upper shoulder belt hands.Pain with sharp inclinations and in turn feel more strongly.Since the pathological subordination of the distance between the intervertebral discs is already present, nerve endings are rising, causing the patient to develop neurological syndrome.As a result, the patient has concomitant symptoms, including increased fatigue, decreased performance, destruction and headache.
  3. Third degree.At this point, pain syndrome becomes even more pronounced than before.It is impossible to neglect such pain, so even the most persistent patients are already forced to consult a physician to make the appropriate diagnosis.Pain often emits limbs and shoulders, and in the morning the muscles of the hands are weak.At this stage, the accompanying disease - the intervertebral disc hernia may occur.In the morning, the patient feels strong strength, which also indicates deterioration of cervical region's mobility.Patients have dizziness and severe weakness.
  4. Terminal osteochondrosis, fourth stage.At this point, the destruction of the intervertebral discs is observed.The wheels themselves were replaced by the timing of the connective tissue.The enhanced pathological process may already affect other segments of the spine, including the chest and lumbar region.In such patients, the quality of life is greatly affected - coordination of movements will deteriorate, headaches and dizziness become unbearable, noise in the ears, other serious disorders - vascular disorders, respiratory problems.

Syndromes found in cervical osteochondrosis

The risk of untreated symptoms is further progressing.If the patient continues to neglect the pathology, different types of syndromes - symptoms of symptoms.There are such types:

  1. Spine or spine.
  2. Spine artery.
  3. Cardiac or sincere.
  4. Map syndrome.

The combination of these signs often develops in the overall picture of osteochondrosis manifestation.

Spine syndrome often develops.In the patient, over time, the cervical spine disappears.First, firmness occurs after waking up.In the future, the pathology will be constantly present.Also, when trying to move the neck side, the pain arises.Some deterioration is also observed in X -Ray.A characteristic feature of spine syndrome is the presence of all of the above signs.If there is no sign, then this is an exception or an axiom.The difficulty of diagnosis is that spine syndrome is often confused with other inflammatory diseases of the cervical region - myositis, injury and stretching.

Spine artery syndrome is associated with the pathological arterial process that occurs during compression.If there is no lack of blood flow to the cervical region due to partial overlap of the spine arteries, the following signs are the following signs:

  1. Venous blood flow failure is manifested by such signs - the appearance of noise in the ears, dizziness, pressure jump, vomiting or nausea.
  2. An irritation of nerve endings, which is manifested by migraine or severe headache.Often the patient may record a temporary vision of bumps or sight with one eye.
  3. Oxygen starvation due to arteries.The patient has signs of hypoxia - shortness of breath, heart pain, redness, dizziness and weakness in the slightest physical stress.

A similar condition is also characteristic of atherosclerosis and oncology.

Also, the symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine are characterized by the development of the heart of the syndrome.The patient has signs that resemble heart muscle disorder.Many signs can lose heart attack or coronary heart disease.During the exacerbation period, the patient feels burning and weakening in the heart muscle, weakness, shortness of breath, as well as an increase in tachycardia attack.In order to exclude heart syndrome, in the wake of osteochondrosis, you should perform a heart echo, ECG.If there are no signs of disorders from the heart, then it is a heart syndrome that arises due to the fact that osteochondrosis of the cervical spine continues to progress.

Ruzer syndrome is associated with major diseases - spinal column and limbs.The reason is the transmission of nerve endings.During the exacerbation period, the patient should observe bed rest and use painkillers.The pathology is treated using neurotropic medications.Prevention of seizures is aimed at improving blood circulation, physiotherapy and physiotherapy.Rotor syndrome is dangerous for complications.If even a small nerve is completely locked, it is full of immobilization of the limbs and in the fingers, with impaired innervation in the hands.

Diagnosis of osteochondrosis of the neck

To determine the pathology, you need to contact the therapist.The doctor conducts an initial examination, fills the patient's hospital card and sends the patient a narrow specialist - a traumatologist or neurologist.The doctor then examines the patient, checking the primary diagnosis, which should be confirmed by the use of laboratory tests.

What methods of diagnosis are recommended for suspicion of cervical osteochondrosis:

  1. X -Ray.This is a quick and general option for the initial examination necessary to evaluate the condition of the patient's bone system in the distant spine.If the patient has osteochondrosis, then the distance to the staggering side of the spine will be reduced.
  2. To find out a certain diagnosis, you can perform magnetic resonance imaging.MRI is the most accurate diagnostic method.The device discusses both bone structures and cartilage, soft tissues.You may notice any disturbance - nervous nerves, intervertebral hernia stage, and the degree of development of osteochondrosis.
  3. Computed tomography.The research method is suitable if there is no doubt about the presence of intervertebral hernia.
  4. Ultrasound duplex scan.If the patient is suspected of being impaired in venous blood, then this type of examination is performed.If there are physical obstacles, this type of diagnosis will help identify them.

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis of the spine is aimed at eliminating symptoms.There is no radical way that will back down the development of pathology.It should be understood that the nature of the disease is not only in pathological development but also in natural physiological degenerative destruction.

Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine with medication

Drug therapy is the best way to reduce pain in pain attack.Typically, medications are prescribed for the treatment of osteochondrosis, on the basis of symptoms:

  1. Nsaids or analgesics.Non -anti -anti -anti -anti -anti -anti -anti -aging agents are suitable for stopping a headache, which is more common in women.The administration of a particular drug depends on the causes of pain.An example-If a woman has a headache due to vascular spasms, then analgesics or antispasmodics are written.If the pain in the neck and inflammation is accompanied by inflammation, NSAIDs are required.It is best to determine the specific trading name for the attending physician.
  2. Musorelaxants.These medications are effective in treating similar diseases associated with the destruction or damage of bone cherry tissue.Such diseases include hernia, protrusion and rheumatoid pathologies.Recent studies say that muscle calmers show not only a soothing effect but also effectively anesthesia.A drug group is prescribed for excessive muscle spasticity associated with their overload arising from osteochondrosis.These medications virtually do not work on the central nervous system, so they can be taken in the daytime.The course of therapy is about 4 weeks.
  3. B vitamins B vitamins B1, B6 and B12 vitamins in large doses show an analgesic effect if the pain syndrome is caused by nerve roots.A long course is required with analgesics.In case of exacerbation attacks, it is advisable to protect the bed rest to maximize the pain zone.For 2-3 weeks, according to the instructions, the injection medications are used, and for 1-2 months they drink the tablets. 
  4. Chondroprotectors.Such medicines are essential in the presence of cartilage degenerative processes.If the enhanced destructive effects have already begun, the chondroprotectors will not eliminate them.Prolonged use of medication injection forms may slow down the regression of cartilage destruction, longer.The minimum period of use is 3-4 months.
  5. Hypotentin agents.If the patient periodically increases blood pressure, use medications that reduce systolic and diastolic pressure.Medications are used carefully and only prescribed by your doctor.Tyta blockers or calcium channel blockers are usually prescribed.
  6. Sedate.Anti -need agents are needed if neurological disorders occur in the light of autonomic disorders.Examples are periods of anxiety, insomnia or sleep disturbances.In the early stages, plant sedatives are suitable.With more serious disorders, medications are prescribed.
  7. Antihixants.It is necessary if the patient suffers from a minor heart disturbance associated with lack of air.
  8. Calcium and Vitamin D3 preparations.In the presence of active degenerative processes in support of the bone fortress, mineral complexes are required.Calcium is a necessary building material, without it the bones become porous and broken.D3 is a vitamin without which it is impossible to have normal calcium assimilation.In combination, these substances are well strengthened by bone tissue.It is also useful to periodically drink other minerals for the health of the musculoskeletal, sulfur, zinc, magnesium and boron.
  9. Vitamin-mineral complexes.In addition to specialized additives, it is necessary to seasonally take polvitamins to maintain the patient's general health.Spend complexes 2-3 times a year with breaks for 1-2 months.
  10. External joints.When you feel firm, you can use warm or therapeutic ointments, gels that help improve blood supply.It is in some ointments that the cure for cure constant gravity, but the use of small amounts of external remedies will relieve the condition in the morning before bedtime.

Conservative methods of therapy

During recovery, when severe pain is affected, a person with osteochondrosis should contribute to the body using conservative treatment methods:

  1. Therapeutic gymnastics.Regular performance special exercises improves joint mobility, temporarily accelerating blood circulation.The patient has improved over time.The main rule of exercise therapy is the regularity and sequence of actions.If you carry physical education every day, the neck muscles are tone, which significantly relieves the load from the spine.
  2. Massage.The procedure is performed after an acute period to improve blood flow and relax the muscles.The effect of contact is well combined with the calming course of the muscles, which effects the drug.By physical exposure to the fingers, local temperature in warm muscles rises, which improves blood flow.Massage causes rest of the back sections of the rear.
  3. Methods of physiotherapy.The technique of treatment is designed to improve blood flow to the affected area.Using devices and low frequency current or magnetic fields, medications are prescribed through the skin.These funds are well absorbed without the creation of a systemic effect.Examples of procedures-magnetotherapy, electrophoresis, laser effect, shock wave therapy.

In a neglected case, when conservative therapy is ineffective, the patient is offered to undergo surgical intervention.In particular, the radical method of therapy is effective in the hernia or in the presence of prosthesis, when there are concomitant diseases of the spine that exacerbates the situation.Surgery instructions are loss of sensitivity to the limbs, unbearable pain.