Osteochondrosis is a complex of pathological anatomical and functional disorders associated with degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs. This condition develops slowly, and good results can be achieved with simple conservative measures with timely intervention.
Causes and symptoms of cervical spine osteochondrosis
Increased stress associated with neck and head mobility in the cervical spine. The anatomy of this segment contributes to the risk of vertebral displacement with sudden or atypical head movements, and a weak muscular corset protects the spine from damage. The causes of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine are not fully understood and the course is often asymptomatic. This causes many patients to seek medical help later. Lead to the development of osteochondrosis:
- disturbed posture, instability of lumbar structures;
- trauma, connective tissue dysplasia;
- genetic predisposition;
- sedentary work or being in a forced position for a long time, lack of sufficient physical activity;
- unbalanced diet, lack of vitamins and minerals in the diet.
Degenerative changes in the joints and cartilage cause narrowing of the arteries and nerve trunks, cerebrovascular disorders and pain syndrome. It is easy to recognize the characteristic features of this condition.
- Painful sensations in the back of the head, neck and shoulders. A characteristic crisp sound is heard when tilting or turning the head. The pain may spread to the chest area, there is a burning sensation between the shoulder blades.
- Feeling tired, insomnia, chronic fatigue and frequent headaches. Headache with cervical osteochondrosis is concentrated in the occipital region and spreads to the sides of the neck.
- There may be numbness in the hands and fingers when bowing.
- Chest pain, nausea, dizziness.
Diagnosis and treatment of cervical spine osteochondrosis
Diagnosis is made by an orthopedic surgeon or neurologist based on an examination, radiography, or computed tomography of the spine. If an intervertebral hernia is suspected, an MRI scan will be performed and rheoencephalography and fundus examination are required to assess functional circulatory disorders.
Conservative therapy includes symptomatic measures (analgesics, anti-inflammatory therapy, antispasmodics), as well as the restoration of natural cartilage tissue using chondroprotectors. Acupressure, physiotherapy, therapeutic exercises are also effective.
Prevention of cervical spine osteochondrosis
Regular physical activity and exercises to strengthen the lumbar muscular system effectively maintain the normal state of the spinal structures. Daily gymnastics and monitoring the condition of the neck and spine during the working day helps to normalize blood circulation, reduce excessive stress in certain segments of the spine.
It is also important to follow a variety of diets and avoid excess weight. A course of massage, which should be repeated 2-3 times a year, helps to activate metabolic processes and eliminate muscle spasms.
11 Myths in Neurology
These days, it's hard to meet someone who doesn't need the help of a neurologist.
Life in a city with stress, bad habits and physical inactivity causes most people to have at least one neurological health problem. Here only radical misconceptions and "traditional" medicine prevent patients from reaching the doctor and receiving qualified care.
Smartphone Pledges
Morning doesn't start with coffee. Studies show that hundreds of thousands of people reach for a smartphone with difficulty opening their eyes in the first place - a message comes suddenly. Then read breakfast, lunch and dinner on the screen. In traffic - off the road to correspond. In the office - a job conversation, at home - communication with friends and relatives. Of course, it is convenient when it is so valuable in a small device - information, communication, entertainment. But isn't there a lot of smartphones in our lives?
in the hands of the master
Massage is one of the oldest treatments. Regardless of the new ways in which mankind gets rid of diseases, massage therapists are still not idle. Sometimes with the skillful hands of a specialist, you can get more results than drugs and ultra-modern devices.
Difficult time of the year
Come to the clinic in the spring - half-empty corridors and silence. But autumn is coming and doctors still have more work to do. And perhaps there is no such doctor who does not increase the number of patients in September-October.
Is the sun a friend or an enemy?
The people of St. Petersburg did it - they came out of a long dark winter and are ready to see the sun again. He looks out the windows and warms the streets. Isn't that a reason to rejoice? Or not? After all, as you know, pleasure often hides hidden threats. So is the sun.
Self-medication. When it is dangerous
Maybe there's no one who doesn't know what to take for a cold or headache. Everyone has their own "proven means". Advertising offers solutions for any disease. You can ask your friends, a pharmacist at a pharmacy or just the Internet for advice. But is everything so simple and convenient? For what diseases can self-medication be dangerous? EMS also has a pharmacy, and our pharmacists are constantly faced with the desire to get advice from patients about a drug, and then doctors deal with the results of self-treatment.
Back jokes are bad
No one is immune to back pain.
I suddenly lifted weights, bent awkwardly, or lay down - and now something in my back hurt and stabbed me. At risk are office workers who do not seem to be unloading wagons, plowing the ground and still suffering from back pain. What to do and who to turn to when a disease breaks plans?