Cervical osteochondrosis is pathological changes in the tissues of the intervertebral discs and the vertebrae themselves.As a result, soft tissues become thinner, and the effect of vertebral depreciation decreases.The blood vessels and nerve fibers are squeezed, the mobility of the cervical spine is reduced.
Cervical osteochondrosis is one of the most dangerous localizations of osteochondrosis, since the blood supply to the brain worsens due to this disease.
Than cervical osteochondrosis is dangerous
As a result, the normal functioning of the cervical spine is impaired, its mobility is reduced, pain in the neck appears.Cervical osteochondrosis can cause the deterioration of blood circulation of the brain, migraines, heart rhythm disturbances, visual impairment, coordination and attention, the development of intervertebral hernia.
Osteochondrosis and spondylosis of the cervical spine
Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis
The disease is characterized by acute pain in the neck, nape, shoulder blades and forearms.The pain can be intensified when the head moves or in certain poses.As a result of the pain and inflammatory process, the cervical muscles are overwhelmed.Patients are often observed in migraines, a decrease in hearing and vision, dizziness, tinnitus, sharp changes in blood pressure, fainting conditions.The symptom of osteochondrosis of the cervical region may be a violation of the sensitivity of the fingertips.
The causes of cervical osteochondrosis
The causes of cervical osteochondrosis are usually associated with the aging of the body and age -related changes in the tissues.However, the lifestyle and the related factors increase the risk of the occurrence of the disease.These include:
- low physical activity, sedentary work;
- Excess weight and improper nutrition;
- Diseases of the musculoskeletal system: flat feet, rheumatism, scoliosis, posture disorders;
- injuries in the neck or nape.
In addition, osteochondrosis can be caused by other diseases of the spine.The spine is a single whole, and it also needs to be treated in the complex.That is why the first thing that needs to be done in case of suspicion of osteochondrosis is to undergo a complete examination of the spine.
Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis
Treatment is prescribed after the examination.The doctor collects an anamnesis and directs the patient for examination.Most often-on magnetic resonance tomography.Having found out the exact cause of the disease, they begin treatment.
In the acute period, the doctor prescribes painkillers and anti -inflammatory drugs.In the period of remission - physiotherapeutic procedures - massage, shock wave therapy, physiotherapy exercises.These methods are aimed at strengthening the muscle corset, relieving tension and preventing the attacks of the disease.
Prevention of cervical osteochondrosis
- Pass regular examinations.The disease is easier to warn than to cure.Annual examinations will reveal the disease at an early stage and cure it until it turned into a more severe stage.
- Follow the posture.Keep your back even, shoulders relaxed.If you work a lot at a computer or desk, choose a comfortable chair, sit right, do a warm-up every half hour or an hour.
- Lead an active lifestyle.Walk more, go in the fresh air, play sports, it is especially useful to swim.
- During sleep, use an orthopedic pillow.