The development of information technologies and the computerization of the population have turned the table into a place where a person spends almost the whole day in this position. An unpleasant pain in the spine is known to almost every second person. Pain in the spine, limbs, numbness in the legs are the main symptoms of osteochondrosis. Moreover, if earlier people over the age of 40 suffered from osteochondrosis, today teenagers face this disease already in high school.
According to localization, osteochondrosis is divided into several types - cervical, thoracic and lumbar. One of the most common types of the disease is called cervical osteochondrosis. It should be said that due to its localization, it causes complications in the work of the brain, which is full of neurological diseases. From our article, you will get detailed information about this disease, its course, treatment and prevention features.
Causes of cervical osteochondrosis
Maybe it sounds a little strange, but the cause of osteochondrosis of the spine. . . is human life. Any excessive load on the spine causes some deformation, which is why the disease occurs. Osteochondrosis can be prevented, treated, but only if it does not work. Fortunately, I would like to warn those who do not suffer from pain: analyze the degree of stress on your spine - and you will understand whether you are at risk of osteochondrosis.
Thus, the main and most common cause of osteochondrosis in adults may be work that involves constant lifting of heavy objects, such as the work of loaders. Also, the disease can be provoked, for example, by "sedentary" work in the office or work "on the feet", as with salespeople who are in a certain position for a long time, creating a load on the same muscles, sections. of the spine.
There is a risk of osteochondrosis in athletes due to heavy loads or, conversely, due to a poor level of physical development in those who do not engage in sports at all. There are cases of the onset of the disease even when athletes are engaged in active training, and then suddenly stop them. It is impossible not to mention spinal injuries, which later lead to osteochondrosis. When the load on the vertebrae and discs is distributed differently due to the irregular shape of the foot, it can affect the spine and flat feet causing discomfort.
Perhaps, osteochondrosis in pregnant women is due to the same increased load, as well as in women who constantly walk on heels, associated with overwork of the spine.
The causes of osteochondrosis in the neck can be genetic or hereditary.
Spine diseases can manifest as a result of metabolic disorders in the body, obesity, low immunity, poisoning, infectious diseases that reduce the functionality of the spine.
Over the years, the spine becomes more fragile, the discs lose elasticity, bone density and deform. Age is another cause of osteochondrosis.
And finally, the impact of the environment and living conditions on the spine cannot be underestimated. Bad ecology, stress, nutrition, not rich in vitamins and trace elements - all this can lead to the development of cervical osteochondrosis. Symptoms of cervical spine osteochondrosis are quite obvious. It is necessary to know them in order to stop the development of the disease in time. After all, each of us is partially at risk.
Symptoms and stages of the disease
You can recognize osteochondrosis with a simple exercise - turn your head. Painful sensations when turning are the first signs of cervical osteochondrosis. The following symptoms are muscle spasms, difficulty moving, numbness of the fingers, pain in the shoulders.
This type of disease is called radicular syndrome or cervical sciatica. Dislocation of the nerve root occurs when it is compressed by the vertebra due to the formation of a hernia. In this case, the pain descends from the shoulder to the fingers in a wave, tingling of the fingers and forearm is felt. If the little finger and ring finger are numb, this indicates that the brachial nerve is affected, this is the region of the 7-8 vertebrae. If there are three other fingers - if the problem is in the region of 5-6-7 vertebrae, the central nerve is affected.
In addition, the disease has symptoms related to the functioning of the brain. Often with cervical osteochondrosis, the recurring headache is severe or painful. Perhaps with cervical osteochondrosis, dizziness, tinnitus, spots before the eyes, blurred vision, hearing, problems with teeth. These symptoms of the disease indicate that the two vertebral arteries that carry blood to the brain are affected. In particular, in the areas responsible for blood pressure, in the cerebellar zone, which controls our vestibular apparatus. This type of disease is called vertebral artery syndrome and is very common. Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, which affects the arteries, is fraught with impaired ability to move normally and even strokes.
There are also irritant-reflex syndromes. In this case of cervical osteochondrosis, the symptoms are similar to other types of the disease, but pain attacks occur suddenly after a state of rest. For example, when a person gets up after sleep, he feels a strong dull pain in his neck.
Another type of disease is very similar to heart disease - angina pectoris, when pain occurs in the chest and radiates to the shoulder, lasting for several hours. This is a heart syndrome. A cardiogram will help distinguish osteochondrosis from heart disease, it confirms that blood circulation is not disturbed and that the patient is not worried about the heart, but the spine.
Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is divided into stages of the course of the disease. In the first or preclinical stage, there is a small change inside at the level of biochemistry. When staying in one position for a long time, during physical exertion, a person feels some discomfort. Back and neck muscles get tired quickly.
The second stage of the disease is called the stage of increased changes in the nucleus pulposus. At this time, the intervertebral disc is deformed, the metabolism of the nucleus pulposus is disturbed, and some of its cells die. Due to these processes, the distance between the vertebrae decreases, which subsequently leads to compressed nerves and spasms. A person feels pain in the damaged areas of the spine.
In the third stage of the disease, complete or partial destruction of the fibrous ring occurs. Fissures are visible through which the nucleus pulposus protrudes, breaking the density of the spinal cord. The spine is abnormally mobile, the vertebral sections are displaced. This causes pain in the entire back of a person, movement disorders, and loss of sensitivity in the limbs.
And the most severe, the fourth stage manifests itself in a way called osteochondrosis, regeneration of vertebral discs, fusion of vertebrae. The nucleus pulposus replaces the cartilage, pain subsides, and the spine becomes a support again. But unfortunately, the result of such changes in the spine is the limitation of human mobility and even disability.
The spine has three important functions in the human body. These are support, protection of the spinal cord and cushioning during movement. Our ability to move and exist comfortably depends on the spine. Back pain should not be considered as a temporary and random phenomenon. Take it as a rule: if you feel pain with a smooth turn of the head, you should contact a neurologist.
Osteochondrosis in children
Osteochondrosis in children is not as common as in adults and is more often a disease due to birth or heredity. However, since the deformation of the spine can lead to bad consequences and greatly harm the development of the child's body, we decided to emphasize this topic separately and draw the attention of parents to osteochondrosis in children.
A child's spine is more susceptible to injury, freezing, lack of nutrients for formation and development. And this, as already mentioned, is the cause of osteochondrosis. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the child's nutrition, remember that it should be rich in calcium and other trace elements, varied and useful. In case of injuries and back falls, especially at a young age, it is imperative to see a doctor for an examination and, if the disease is confirmed, its possible subsequent treatment. By the way, osteochondrosis in a child can be the result of birth trauma.
Osteochondrosis occurs in children and due to heredity, when the fragility of the vertebrae is genetically transmitted. In children, if the growth zone of the bone, that is, the area where the bone grows, is damaged during spinal disease, this can cause a violation of the child's growth and general development. Symptoms of osteochondrosis in children are the same as in adults, but the pain is milder, movements are not impaired. There is a possibility of fainting and dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis.
If the child has preconditions for osteochondrosis or you suspect back problems, consult a doctor immediately. The sooner the disease is detected, the sooner you can get rid of the child.
Diagnosis of cervical spine osteochondrosis
Diagnosis of cervical osteochondrosis, like other diseases, begins with a doctor's examination. In this case, a neurologist. The doctor examines the patient in different positions - standing, sitting, lying down, and checks the condition of the spine during movement. Pays attention to the posture, the location of the median sulcus of the back, the position of the shoulder blades, shoulders. In addition to visual inspection, tactile inspection is also mandatory. Complaints, examinations, as well as using a special technique to count the vertebrae, the location of the injury is found. In addition, X-ray or magnetic resonance therapy is prescribed to the patient to examine the spine more carefully, to learn the stage of damage. After the diagnosis, the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is prescribed.
Treatment
Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is usually complicated. It is often based on several mandatory points. One of the main ones is the correct motor mode. It means to move properly without bowing your head. Any fast movements do not benefit the vertebrae. The doctor will likely wear a special medical soft collar that will immobilize the neck during the treatment.
The patient who wants to think something from his side should turn his head slowly. If you feel discomfort in the neck, do some special exercises, massage yourself.
Medicines are a mandatory step in the treatment of osteochondrosis in the acute stage. The doctor will prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pills to relieve inflammation and swelling. Be sure to relieve the course of the disease with analgesics. If osteochondrosis causes muscle spasm, a drug that relieves cramps and relieves pain is also prescribed. Vitamin B, which improves brain function, fights stress and strengthens muscles, will also be prescribed. And if the patient is depressed, then antidepressants will be prescribed.
You can not do without external preparations for the treatment of osteochondrosis - gels, ointments, creams. Known anti-inflammatory drugs will act directly at the heart of the disease. There are ointments called chondroprotectors, that is, ointments with elements that restore the cartilage tissue of the intervertebral discs. And, of course, the patient needs ointments or creams for therapeutic massage, which is indispensable.
Manual therapy for osteochondrosis
Many patients with osteochondrosis seek help from chiropractors. If the patient has an anatomical change in the spine, the formation of a hernia or displacement of discs, this method of treatment can be included in the complex. It gives really positive results with proper treatment. But be careful when looking for an expert. Before agreeing to treatment, make sure the practitioner has a medical degree and practice traditional medicine, as well as additional training and certification as a neurologist and chiropractor. The experience of the operator is also important. After all, the therapy itself requires clear actions and, if used incorrectly, is full of injuries. The principle of manual therapy consists of point impact on the structural components of the spine. With a quick push, the joint, which has changed from the correct position, returns to it again. Correct therapy is undoubtedly a very effective treatment for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine.
Physiotherapy
Therapeutic exercises for cervical osteochondrosis will allow you to fight the disease even at work. Moreover, simple exercises will be an excellent prevention of spinal diseases.
So take your eyes off the screen, lean back in your chair and learn some useful exercises.
Sitting in a chair, place your feet shoulder-width apart. Relax, put your hands down. Slowly lower your head until your chin touches your chest. If it doesn't work, that's okay, lower it as much as possible. After that, slowly raise your head and pull it back until it stops. Return to the starting position with a straight head, repeat the exercise 5 times.
Without getting up from the chair, slowly turn your head to the side. First in one direction, then return to the starting position and turn to the other side. 5 times each.
You can go to the slopes by turning your head. The exercise is also done while sitting, the head is slowly tilted to the left, then back, then to the right. They try to press their ears to their shoulders, tilt their heads all the way. The exercise is performed at least 5 times for each side.
This will help stretch the neck muscles and the next exercise. In a sitting position, the head is slowly thrown back, hold this position for a few seconds, and without lifting the head, begin to slowly turn to the left, then to the right, making at least 10 turns in total.
You can also exercise to warm up the muscles of the shoulders without leaving the workplace. Sitting in a comfortable position, start rolling your shoulders forward 5 times, then back 5 times. Do this slowly and carefully, feeling each muscle.
It will help to stretch your shoulders and exercise known to everyone from kindergarten. As desired - it can be performed sitting or standing as the situation allows. Slowly throw your left hand over your shoulder to the right side, touch your ear with your fingers and lower it. Throw your right hand over your head to your left ear in the same way.
Now a little more warm-up for the neck muscles. Put your palm on your forehead, start pressing your forehead against your palm, resisting with your hand. Hold this position with a tense neck and count to 5. Then relax and repeat the exercise twice.
The exercise is similar to the previous one. But now other neck muscles will work. You throw your hand or, more conveniently, both of them in a lock, behind your head, put it behind your head and start pressing your head into your hands. Exercise 3 times for 5 seconds.
Now we stretch the lateral muscles of the neck. There is only one scheme - the head presses the hand, the hand resists. You put your left hand on your left temple, press, count to 5, pause for a few seconds and repeat 2 more times. In the same way, the exercise is done for the right side of the neck.
And finally, warm up a little while standing. For this, it is better to choose an empty place in the office. Feet are placed shoulder width apart for better balance. In a free position, they begin to turn 5 times forward, then 5 times back, synchronously with outstretched arms.
After a short break of 10-15 minutes, you will feel that the tension in the back and neck muscles decreases, your eyes rest from the monitor, and you relax a little. At work, such breaks are useful, and in many modern offices they even practice the mass exit of colleagues to warm up. Do not neglect the simple rule - to warm up every time you are tired and tense. Gymnastics for cervical osteochondrosis is an excellent treatment for the initial stages of the disease and effective prevention. In more serious cases of the disease, a course of exercise therapy (physiotherapy exercises) is prescribed.
Therapeutic exercise for cervical osteochondrosis
Exercise therapy for cervical osteochondrosis is simply indispensable. A series of exercises will improve the functionality of the spine, help maintain muscle tone and relieve tension. Exercise will require some free time and a warm exercise mat on the floor. They can be done at home in the evening or in the morning before work. Of course, it is advisable to do it between meals.
Lying on your back on the floor, stretch your arms along your body. Look ahead and start looking left and right 4 times in each direction gradually. After turning your eyes to the side, start looking up and down 4 times. After finishing the lateral warm-up, immediately proceed to rotate the eyes clockwise and then counterclockwise.
In the same position, lying down, turn your head alternately in different directions. Slowly, slowly. After making 4 turns in each direction, continue tilting your head sideways to the left and right shoulder.
You can do exercises by lifting your head. Also, lying on a flat surface, lift your head off the floor and try to touch your chin to your chest by tilting it towards your chest. Bring your head as close as possible. All this without sudden movements no more than 4 times.
When performing exercises for cervical osteochondrosis, it is necessary to remember that not only the neck area, but the whole body requires warming up. Therefore, after completing the first simple exercises lying on your back, after warming up, proceed to the next movement. Spread your arms at your sides and turn to the side, try to touch the opposite side with your hand and foot, but do not roll onto your stomach. The turn is carried out by inhalation, and during exhalation they return to their original position. Do not do more than 5 loops.
The next exercise is to sit in a prone position. Lying on the ground with your arms extended along your body, you need to rise slowly, leaning on your hands. It is a very difficult exercise for osteochondrosis, so we emphasize once again that you should do it carefully and slowly 3-4 times.
Lying on your back, bend your legs and press them to your stomach, close your knees with your hands. Then slowly lower your head to your feet and touch your knees. In addition - carefully return to the prone position. The exercise is performed up to 5 times.
You lie, legs bent at the knees at the level of the abdomen, arms spread apart. Turn your body alternately right and left up to 5 times in each direction.
Do not interfere with abdominal exercises. Turn your face and stretch your arms along the body. Start by lifting your head off the ground, then focus on your shoulders, torso, legs, and hips. Then return to the starting position and perform the exercise up to 5 times.
Breathing exercises are useful for osteochondrosis of the cervical region. After a little rest from the previous exercises, lie on your back, fold both hands on your stomach. Breathe deeply and slowly, blow out your stomach, and exhale carefully by pulling your stomach in. Take 5 breaths and exhale.
Place one hand on your stomach and the other on your chest. Take a shallow breath, tense your muscles, exhale, relax. The number of breaths is also 5.
These exercises are only introductory and should not be taken as a complete treatment. On the contrary, these are recommendations for the prevention or development of the disease. Therapeutic exercise for cervical osteochondrosis is selected by the doctor based on the needs of the patient.
Self-massage
Massage is one of the necessary and pleasant procedures during the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis and is prescribed by a doctor. Of course, trying to replicate a professional massage at home by involving relatives is out of the question, this issue is really managed only by medical professionals. But you can do light kneading yourself, distracting yourself and relieving stress in the middle of the workday. By the way, massage will be a good addition to gymnastics.
So, feel pain in the neck, lean on the chair, relax your back. The massage begins by stroking the neck from top to bottom, that is, from the hair to the shoulders. After squeezing, turn your palms to your neck with the edge and move your hand up and down several times, pressing lightly. Then start grinding. Place your palms behind your head so that your fingers meet in the middle of your spine. Rub the body, moving your hands from the center of the vertebra to the sides of the neck, going down from top to bottom. You can massage your neck with your fingertips in circular motions. Then start pinching the skin and muscles, holding them between the index and thumb. And then pat your neck with your palms, completing the massage.
Self-massage for cervical osteochondrosis will help relieve pain and muscle tension.
Treatment with folk remedies
The most popular folk remedies for any disease are herbal preparations. Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis with folk remedies, as a rule, is possible in the initial stages of the disease. Herbs such as peppermint, St. John's wort, calendula, yarrow, licorice root, chamomile, birch and strawberry leaves are good for musculoskeletal disorders. Brew tea from these herbs, drink regularly, as a tonic and preventative.
You can also take herbal baths. At least 300 grams of dry herbs are needed for each bath. A candle bath helps a lot. The needles of coniferous plants are placed on the ground, poured with boiled water and boiled for 20 minutes. Then it is filtered, added to a hot bath and steamed for half an hour.
You can and should take a chamomile bath, which has an anti-inflammatory effect and perfectly heals the body. Chamomile is poured with boiling water, insisted for up to an hour, filtered and added to water.
A quick compress from improvised means will help relieve back pain. Everyone has potatoes and honey at home. Folk methods recommend making such a compress from them: grate the vegetables and mix them with honey in a 1: 1 ratio. The composition is applied to gauze and applied to the painful area. Relief is provided, but unfortunately not for long.
Ginger and garlic ointment work in the same way. They are rubbed on a grater and combined in a 1: 1 ratio, a little butter or vaseline is added to smear and the wound is rubbed. It will also relieve pain and inflammation, but will not cure the disease. With osteochondrosis, a mandatory visit to a neurologist is required, who will prescribe complete treatment.
Finally, I would like to say about the basic rules of conduct for osteochondrosis. First, keep your back straight and your head straight. Adjust your workspace to these standards, if it's low, put a book under your monitor or find a higher chair.
Do not lift heavy objects unless absolutely necessary. And if you really had to carry a load, do it not in a bent over position, but like a weightlifter with barbells - sit down and then lift a load.
Do not overcool your back, protect it from drafts. A large selection of stylish and fashionable vests will keep your back warm at any time of the year and in any conditions.
Move more, do swimming, gymnastics, hang on the horizontal bar.
After mastering all the secrets of prevention of osteochondrosis with gymnastics, self-massage and folk remedies, share them with your office friends. Thus, you can not only insure yourself against spinal diseases, but also help your colleagues to avoid back pain and increased fatigue. Bless you!