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 behind these symptoms.
What is cervical osteochondrosis?
Osteochondrosis of the cervical vertebrae is a disease of the musculoskeletal system and the connective tissue of the cervical vertebrae.It is characterized by changes in the cartilage structure of the intervertebral discs and the development of a pathological process in the surrounding tissues.
Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis
The disease has a set of characteristic symptoms:
- Complaints of pain (both sharp and dull, pain), which can be localized in the neck, back of the head, as well as in the hands and shoulder blades.This is due to pinching of the nerve roots of the corresponding cervical segment.
- Muscle weakness and numbness in the neck and arms.
- Stiffness on movement of the neck and vertigo.
- Increased fatigue and reduced work capacity may occur.
- Impairment of hearing and vision is less common (in advanced disease).
The above symptoms and complaints can be combined.It depends on the specific localization and degree of the pathological process.
Why does cervical osteochondrosis occur?
The causes of cervical osteochondrosis are many factors.It most often develops due to:
- Age-related changes in cartilage tissue are a normal process of aging.
- Hereditary syndromes of disorders in the development of connective tissue: Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, joint hypermobility syndrome.
- Low physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle.
- Poor posture, which creates overload in the corresponding part of the spine.
- Previous injuries to the relevant part of the spine.
Incorrect stereotyped postures and habits make a big contribution to the development of the disease.They are increasingly common nowadays due to the frequent use of gadgets and long work at the computer - the neck is tilted forward and down.If you read for a long time and have incorrect postures during sleep - unsuitable pillow, mattress, sleeping on your stomach.As a result of the influence of these factors, the muscles of the neck are in constant tension.
How to treat cervical osteochondrosis?
For effective treatment of cervical osteochondrosis, complex treatment methods are used, including:
- Drug therapy (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, vitamin complexes based on B vitamins, magnesium, etc.).Medicines reduce pain and inflammation, reduce muscle tone.
- Physical therapy.Therapeutic exercises and massage improve blood circulation, saturating the affected cells with oxygen and nutrients.Thanks to this, the pathological process stops and the pain is relieved.
- Physiotherapy procedures and massage.Physiotherapy can be carried out both in a medical facility and at home.For these purposes, almost the entire range of physiotherapeutic methods is 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 recommended to create correct stereotypical positions of the head and neck during work and the correct organization of the sleeping place.Maybe it's worth replacing the pillow with an orthopedic one.
Prevention of cervical osteochondrosis
If you observe the following prevention rules, it is possible not only to prevent the development of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, but also to stop the development of the disease:
- Regular moderate physical activity and/or physical therapy.
- Maintain a healthy diet with enough water, calcium, magnesium and protein.
- Performing exercises for the cervical vertebrae during prolonged sedentary work, at least once every two hours.
Gymnastics for the cervical vertebrae
Perform exercises slowly, without sudden movements during periods of remission.In the starting position, inhale, and when bending and turning the head, exhale.Hold in each position as if you are stretching your neck muscles.
- Starting position: sit upright, look ahead.
- 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, return 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 complex version of gymnastics - the same movements, but with the opposite resistance of the hands.Push your head forward and down and push with your hands, preventing your head from bending forward and down.Perform the exercise for 5-15 seconds, depending on your strength.Repeat the exercise in all indicated directions.
Important: gymnastics should not cause pain!
If there are obvious signs of the disease, it is necessary to contact a specialist for timely diagnosis, determination of the stage of the disease and selection of individual treatment tactics.