Do you know that feeling of tension in your neck?It happens that you work and automatically pull your head left and right because your muscles are "numb."Or while reading a book, you catch yourself massaging your neck.Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine may be hidden 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 cartilage structure of the intervertebral disc and the development of pathological processes in the surrounding tissue.
Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis
There are a set of characteristic symptoms for this disease:
- Complaints of pain (both acute and dull, aching), which can be localized in the neck, back of the head, and in the hands and shoulder blades.This is caused by pinching the nerve root of the corresponding cervical segment.
- Muscle weakness and numbness in the neck and arms.
- Stiffness when moving the neck and dizziness.
- Increased fatigue and decreased performance may occur.
- Impairment of hearing and vision is less common (with advanced disease).
The above symptoms and complaints can be combined.This depends on the specific location and level of the pathological process.
Why does cervical osteochondrosis appear?
The causes of cervical osteochondrosis are many factors.Often it develops because:
- Age-related changes in cartilage tissue are a normal aging process.
- Hereditary syndromes of disorders of connective tissue development: Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Joint hypermobility syndrome.
- Low physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle.
- Poor posture that creates a load on the corresponding part of the spine.
- Previous injury to the same part of the spine.
Incorrect stereotyped attitudes and habits contribute greatly to the development of this disease.They are becoming more common nowadays due to the use of tools and frequent working hours at the computer - the neck is tilted forward and down.If you read for a long time and have the wrong posture while sleeping - an inappropriate pillow, mattress, sleep on your stomach.As a result of the influence of these factors, the neck muscles are in constant tension.
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.).Medicines reduce pain and inflammation, reduce muscle tone.
- Therapeutic exercises.Exercise and therapeutic massage improve blood circulation, replenishing affected cells with oxygen and nutrients.Thanks to this, the pathological process stops and the pain is relieved.
- Physiotherapy and massage procedures.Physiotherapy can be carried out in a medical facility and at home.For this purpose, almost all physiotherapeutic methods are used: exposure to current, 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 establish the correct stereotypical position of the head and neck during work, and the correct organization in bed.It may be worth replacing the pillow with an orthopedic one.
Prevention of cervical osteochondrosis
If you follow the following preventive rules, it is possible not only to prevent the development of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, but also to stop the development of this disease:
- Moderate physical activity and/or physical therapy.
- Maintain a healthy diet with enough water, calcium, magnesium and protein.
- Perform exercises for the cervical spine during inactive work, at least once every two hours.
Gymnastics for the cervical spine
Perform exercises slowly without sudden movements during the remission period.In the starting position, inhale, and when bending and turning your head, exhale.Hold each position, as if stretching the neck muscles.
- Starting Position: Sit up straight, look up.
- 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, returning to the starting position.
- Turn your head to the right, then in front of you.Turn your head to the left, then in front of you.
If your health allows, you can use a more complicated version of gymnastics - the same movement, but with the resistance of the arms reversed.Press your head forward and down, and press with your hands, preventing your head from leaning forward and down.Do the exercise for 5-15 seconds, depending on your strength.Repeat the exercise in all directions shown.
Important: Gymnastics should not cause pain!
If there are clear signs of the disease, it is necessary to contact a specialist for a timely diagnosis, determination of the level of the disease and the selection of individual treatment tactics.