Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine without surgery.

18 December 2021

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, around 60% of the world's population faced it, as modern people suffer from physical inactivity and also spend a great deal of time in sedentary jobs. Osteochondrosis manifests itself in the form of damage to the intervertebral cartilage, as well as reactive processes in the adjacent tissues.

The vertebrae of the cervical spine are much smaller than the vertebrae of the other spine, but the load on them is not less. We constantly turn the head, that is why the neck is in a systematic movement. 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 release of osteochondrosis of the cervical neck, which significantly complicates the subsequent treatment process.

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

Causes of osteochondrosis of the neck

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

Physical inactivity is the main reason that precedes the development of a dangerous disease. The complete absence of moderate physical activity leads to the degradation of the muscular and bone skeleton. Insufficient daily activity is not just a problem for office workers and drivers. People who prefer to spend their free time in front of the computer or watching television suffer from hypodynamics.
Excessive physical activityVery often, professional athletes who are exposed to axial loads on the back suffer from this. Working to the limit also threatens novice athletes who train without the supervision of a professional trainer and exercise with incorrect technique.
Negative factors for posture are walking in high heels and uncomfortable shoes, scoliosis, flat feet, and improper body position during sleep.
Excess weight places an excessive load on the spine, causing displacement of the vertebrae and wear of the cartilaginous structures.
Rheumatism.
Endocrine system disorders.
Stress.
Hypothermia of 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 load occurs on the cervical vertebrae, which provokes the formation of muscle spasms. As a result, the blood circulation process is disrupted and metabolism worsens, leading to degenerative changes.

An interesting fact: the risk of developing a condition such as osteochondrosis is largely associated with evolutionary changes in the human body. It is about walking upright. Throughout the entire life cycle, the spinal column performs the function of the "core" of our body. The vertebrae, pressing on the cartilaginous discs, gradually wear them down, as a result of which the connective tissue is degraded. Due to this, osteochondrosis often makes itself felt in old age.

The symptoms and treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine will largely depend on the reasons that provoked the onset of the disease. To develop an individual treatment plan, doctors perform a wide range of tests. Self-medication for neck pain is strongly discouraged. Incorrect massages, medicines or traditional medicine methods can aggravate the situation and lead to a series of irreparable consequences.

Cervical osteochondrosis: symptoms and treatment.

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

Type of load on the cervical spine.
The site of damage to the cartilaginous structure of the intervertebral disc.

Nerve roots perform a large number of functions, therefore the symptoms of damage to their individual parts can vary greatly. Also, 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 last.

Cervical osteochondrosis 1 degree

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

The main symptoms are:

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

One of the most notable symptoms of the preclinical stage of cervical osteochondrosis is constant tension in the neck muscles. Muscles quickly overwork, leading to a bearable aching sensation, as well as a cracking sound when turning / tilting the head.

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

Second degree cervical osteochondrosis.

In this case, patients begin to feel noticeable pain when tilting / turning the head. Uncomfortable sensations often spread to the arms, shoulder joints, and hands. Problems with the state of the nervous system begin to appear: a person becomes irritable, distracted, his daily work capacity 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, listless mood, and much more).

Despite the obvious signs of the development of the disease, it is still possible to get rid of osteochondrosis of the neck. First, doctors work to eliminate the risk of hernias, which cause a deterioration in the mobility of the extremities and the blood supply to the brain.

The main symptoms are:

severe neck pain
noise in the ears
visual disability
decreased sensitivity of the skin on the shoulders and arms
impaired tendon reflexes

Cervical osteochondrosis 3 degrees

At this stage of development, the disease is already considered neglected. Treatment of stage 3 cervical osteochondrosis is more difficult, as the destruction / deformation of cartilaginous structures is often irreversible. The pain syndrome is getting stronger, which is associated with the active development of hernias and the friction of the bone tissues of the vertebrae with each other.

In addition to pain, the patient experiences weakness and complains of dizziness. The reason for this is the infringement of the great vessels and nerves that run through the spine. The brain receives inadequate amounts of nutrition and oxygen, which can cause a clouding 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 feeling in the fingers, as well as tingling in them.

The main symptoms are:

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

Cervical osteochondrosis grade 4

The cartilaginous tissues of the intervertebral discs have already undergone major changes due to destruction. At stage 4 of the disease, in 99% of cases there are bumps and hernias, which have a significant negative effect on the patient's condition. The body begins independent recovery and "accumulates" tissue in the areas of disc damage. As a result, the pillar itself loses its mobility.

As nerves and blood vessels are compressed, the person loses coordination of movement. The drowsiness, apathy, and pain only intensify. Patients often complain of bothersome tinnitus. Also, stage 4 of cervical osteochondrosis threatens a number of the following consequences:

Cerebral ischemia, the risk of developing a spinal stroke. This is due to the strong compression of the vertebral arteries.
Impaired perception of the surrounding world and systematic loss of consciousness. The reason is the clamping of blood vessels and insufficient blood supply to the cerebral cortex.
Fatal result. A disastrous consequence can arise as a result of spinal cord impingement.

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 conduct a comprehensive examination of the patient's cervical spine. This is necessary to establish the fact of the presence and neglect of the disease. The diagnosis consists of several stages:

Bone scan. This is a visual way to determine the location of the vertebrae, as well as changes in their mobility.
Laboratory research. With the help of tests, doctors establish disorders of the spine and also make a final diagnosis.
CONNECTICUT. This is a modern technique for evaluating breaks and changes in the height of the intervertebral discs. In addition, the CT scan helps to track the instability of individual vertebrae.
Magnetic resonance. The presented stage of the examination is carried out to determine the state of the nerve roots, the quality of blood circulation, and pathological changes in the cartilaginous / bone structures.
Differential diagnosis. This includes an ultrasound, 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 system, 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 earlier it is carried out, the more effective the therapy will be. If you find symptoms of the disease, see your GP as soon as possible. He will give referrals for appointments with specialists with narrower profiles: a neurologist and an orthopedist. In some cases, it may be necessary to consult a cardiologist if signs of the disease overlap with suspected angina pectoris or ischemia of the heart muscle.

In modern clinics, the diagnosis and successful treatment of osteochondrosis of the neck are carried out on the basis of the use of kinesitherapy. With the help of this healing technique, patients, performing a series of physical exercises on special exercise machines for recovery, significantly improve their health.

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in women and men basic methods.

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

It is by no means possible to independently treat osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in women and men, since the basic symptoms of the disease may indicate the development of a completely different disease. Medicines 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, which once again demonstrates the need for prior consultation with a specialist.

Elimination of exacerbations of pain.

The disease often manifests itself in the form of a shooting, aching and pulling pain syndrome. The main task of the doctor is to alleviate his suffering, therefore, first of all, specialists prescribe:

Anti-inflammatory drugs;
Vitamins
Analgesics;
Chondroprotectors.

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

Therapeutic gymnastics 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 play any role. Regularity of moderate physical activity will help to achieve the result. Here is the effect of the exercise:

Strengthening of the neck muscles, which are responsible for supporting weakened vertebrae.
Stimulation and normalization of the blood supply in the body, which is especially important for the cerebral cortex.
Increase in general tone, energy load, restoration of productivity and work capacity of a person.

Exercise therapy classes are allowed daily. The set of exercises includes all kinds of head tilts and rotations. With the right level of fitness, the level of difficulty increases and hand movements are connected to work. The advantage of therapeutic gymnastics items is that they can be used even in the workplace. But remember that they can only be done after the acute pain syndrome has been eliminated.

As an added burden, doctors recommend that patients visit the pool, as swimming relieves stress on the spine and relieves stress on the intervertebral discs. Shows and works with light dumbbells to strengthen the shoulder girdle.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy methods are numerous:

Electrophoresis.
Magneto, laser and shock wave therapy.
Mud therapy.
Medicinal baths and showers.

The above are just the main therapeutic methods that aim to restore the blood supply to the affected spine, eliminate inflammation, pain, and slow down the ossification process of the neck.

Massage

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis of the spine with massage is widespread throughout the world. But this method must be used very carefully, as a sudden and inept impact on the damaged parts of the neck can lead to a worsening of the condition. Before scheduling an appointment with a masseuse, you should consult with your doctor.

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

Surgery

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

Most surgical interventions involve the removal of the resulting hernias, as well as the replacement of the 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. The specialists work according to a unique technique developed on the basis of the principles of kinesiotherapy. Patients who come to us for help are treated with a series of physical exercises in a specially equipped room.

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is carried out 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 treatment process is difficult, but we provide comprehensive support to patients, helping them to be more determined and reconsider their attitude towards their own illness.

This is what the healing process is built from:

Workouts in the rehab room at least 2-3 times a week.
Therapeutic gymnastics bed.
Thermotherapy according to individual indications.
Pain relief with ice massage.
Therapeutic / restorative massage.
Adaptive exercises for work at home.
Microanatomical ultrasound studies to track recovery over time.
Personal consultations with the specialists of the kinesitherapy clinic.

Prevention of osteochondrosis.

Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in the context of modern medicine includes many effective methods. But it is much better not to allow this problem to appear 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 ailment:

Take a hot shower for 10 minutes a day. A systematic visit to the baths / saunas is also recommended. Keep in mind that these recommendations are only suitable for people without cardiovascular health problems.
Go swimming and take regular walks outside at a relaxed pace. Physical inactivity is one of the main causes of diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
Refuse excessive physical exertion at the limit of human capabilities. This is especially true when working out in gyms. Critical axial loads on the column lead to protrusion.
Try to avoid backstabbing, especially if you are over 30 years old.
Check your diet. Try to exclude pastry, flour, moderate intake of salt and sugar. Reducing the calorie content of food allows you to avoid gaining excess weight, which puts additional pressure on your spine.
If you work in an office and spend a lot of time in front of the computer, be sure to buy a special chair with lumbar and neck support. Try to do basic warm-up exercises every 60 minutes.
In case pain appears after waking up, consider purchasing an orthopedic mattress and pillow. If possible, get a bed with a flat, hard surface.
To avoid degenerative and dystrophic changes in the cervical spine, visit a professional masseur at least 2-3 times a year. Neck and neck massage is one of the most effective preventive measures.
Women should minimize walking in high heels, as this interferes with the natural position of the spine. With a diagnosed flat foot, it is recommended to buy special shoes or insoles, as orthopedic products correct the position of the foot and relieve unnecessary stress on the spine.

As well as:

you should visit the bathroom regularly
you must give up bodybuilding, which can contribute to cervical disc bulge
Gentle exercise can be a good disease prevention.

Get out

Treatment of osteochondrosis in a professional clinic is carried out under the strict supervision of highly qualified specialists. Doctors adhere to an integrated approach when working with patients and even deal with the 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 happy and healthy life!