In the human neck there is a huge number of nerve bundles and blood vessels that ensure the normal functioning of the brain and sense organs. The most common cause of their bites is cervical osteochondrosis, a dangerous degenerative disease of cartilage and bone tissue, which is associated with severe pain, deterioration of hearing, vision and cognitive functions, facial numbness and gradual loss of abilities. to work.
If you are worried about pain and stiffness when turning your head, frequent dizziness or weakness in your hands, it is time to think about treatment for cervical osteochondrosis.
Causes of cervical osteochondrosis
Cervical osteochondrosis has its own characteristics due to its anatomical structure. The vertebrae of the cervical region are smaller than the lumbar and even the thoracic, and they also experience a constant static load (the weight of the head). During the day, the load can be expressed in the same posture - for example, when reading documents or working on a computer. At night, the neck is often deprived of rest due to the non-physiological sleeping position and the uncomfortable pillow (the head either "hangs" on the pillow or is a reference point and under pressure). As a result of this pre-disease state, the so-called muscle overtraining develops. Some muscle groups are overworked and need longer rest and recovery - but you shouldn't - because the schedule hasn't been cleared.
All this causes constant tension in some muscle groups, dystrophic changes in others, and often leads to the appearance of a "turtle neck" (the person bends down, while the head extends forward, and the neck forms a characteristic deflection). In this position, the weight of the head falls on the atlas, the first cervical vertebra. He is forced to take on that part of the load that the neck muscles can handle during normal physical development. But the fact is that he is not at all suitable for such a task!
Other factors that can accelerate the wear and tear of the intervertebral cartilage in the cervical spine often include:
- age-related and hormonal changes - most often after 45 years (inorganic substances predominate over organic substances, which reduces the elasticity of bones and causes their mineralization, and the destruction of bone tissue occurs faster than its growth);
- injuries to the neck and other parts of the spine;
- cardiovascular diseases;
- congenital disorders of the locomotor system and acquired postural disorders;
- hypodynamia (after all, the intervertebral joints of the neck are the most mobile, and their health requires various loads);
- smoking and other bad habits.
Stages of cervical osteochondrosis
The stage of cervical osteochondrosis is determined based on diagnostic criteria. These include the patient's own feelings, palpation, assessment of the mobility of the neck, as well as the gap between the vertebrae and other indicators visible on the X-ray. Depending on the stage of the disease, the orthopedist selects the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis, preventive measures and, if necessary, the supporting orthosis.
1 degree cervical osteochondrosis
Stage 1 of cervical osteochondrosis is also called the preclinical stage. Patients usually ignore the first symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis and do not undergo treatment due to their mild severity. It is attributed to fatigue after a day's work, uncomfortable sleeping positions, stress, migraines and various ailments. Patients feel:
- stiffness in the neck, especially in the morning or after a long stay in the same position;
- pain with sharp turns of the head;
- frequent headaches (including changes in the weather).
At this stage of the disease, the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in women is most likely - after all, their symptoms are more pronounced. On the one hand, this can be attributed to the specifics of work and physical activity (for example, working in the office during the day and bending over the sink in the evening, or the child's homework), and on the other hand, to hormonal and anatomical characteristics (smaller muscle mass and bones). In the preclinical stage, pressure increase, numbness and whitening of the skin (especially on the face), tendency to fainting and dizziness, nausea and some other symptoms of cerebral hypoxia are especially characteristic of women.
The symptoms and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis are most often encountered by patients between the ages of 45 and 65, but due to chronic fatigue, excessive physical activity and other risk factors, they can appear quite early - from the age of 25.
At this stage, the disease can be completely overcome with the help of therapeutic exercises, ointments for the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis, orthopedic training and normalization of nutrition.
2 degree cervical osteochondrosis
In the 2nd stage of the disease, the height of the intervertebral cartilage begins to decrease, which acts as a shock-absorbing pad between the vertebrae. Because of this, microtraumatization of the neck often occurs during sharp turns, jumps or excessive loads. Protrusion (protrusion) of the intervertebral discs, radicular syndrome (compression of nerve endings) also appear.
These changes cause severe pain - both in the head and in the neck. The ability to concentrate, the speed of thinking, the sensitivity of the face and hands decrease. Patients complain of increased fatigue and irritability. At this stage, effective medical treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is necessary.
Cervical osteochondrosis of 3 degrees
The strong and acute pain is long-lasting and can be given to the arm, upper back, and neck. One or both arms of the patient tire quickly. The process moves to the adjacent joints due to the violation of the natural compensatory functions of the spine. The patient cannot turn his head with difficulty or at all due to the bone growths - osteophytes, as well as the fact that the cartilage is replaced by connective tissue. Every movement is accompanied, if possible, by a harsh crunch. The neck loses its mobility, its muscles atrophy. Hernias often develop and cracks appear on the vertebrae. There is a noise in the ear.
Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis
The treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is carried out comprehensively, taking into account the patient's age, structure, profession, level of physical fitness, lifestyle and the presence of concomitant diseases. Therefore, the attending physician must determine the appropriateness of specific therapeutic measures in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in women and men.
Physiotherapy of cervical osteochondrosis
The following physiotherapy methods are used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve nerve conduction and brain nutrition in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis:
- ultrasound therapy and phonophoresis - has a warming effect, improves the effect of external drugs;
- electrophoresis - enhances the effect of administered drugs, has a stimulating and warming effect;
- shock wave therapy (SWT) - activates blood circulation, relieves inflammation and improves bone and cartilage tissue regeneration;
- electromyostimulation - improves mobility and endurance of the neck and arms, relieves pain;
- cold and ozone therapy - reduces pain and inflammation, helps reduce the dose of corticosteroid drugs;
- physical therapy and kinesitherapy - strengthens neck muscles, improves blood circulation and metabolism, maintains neck mobility;
- manual therapy and mechanical traction (traction) - helps to get rid of tightness and pain;
- acupuncture - helps maintain mobility and nerve sensitivity;
- paraffin applications - stimulate metabolic processes, reduce pain.
Sanatorium methods of treating cervical osteochondrosis are effective and beneficial - for example, balneotherapy (hydrogen sulfide, radon and turpentine baths) and hirudotherapy (treatment with leeches).
Massage in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis
Therapeutic, lymphatic massage and physical exercise have a positive effect on the intervertebral discs, bone tissue, and the muscles and ligaments of the neck region. Some movements can be performed independently - for example, rubbing the neck collar, parotid zone and shoulders, washing the neck with fingers and the edge of the palm, tapping, stroking and lifting movements on the back of the neck. In the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical vertebrae, a circular massage of the back of the head and a warming massage of the collarbone region, shoulders and upper back are not superfluous. Massage is particularly effective before exercise therapy exercises. You can combine it with the use of ointment for the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis.
In case of cervical osteochondrosis, hydromassage is also recommended - a physiotherapy technique that improves metabolism, inhibits fibrous growth, helps to get rid of headaches and improves nerve conduction.
Practical therapy in cervical osteochondrosis
Lack of proper physical activity of the muscles of the neck and back is the main reason for the development and further progression of cervical osteochondrosis. Therefore, daily gymnastics is used both for the prevention and treatment of this disease (but not for the treatment of exacerbation of cervical osteochondrosis! ). Remember that the exercises should be done at least 3-5 times a day (1 time in the morning, after waking up). All movements should be smooth, without jerks. If you feel pain during the exercise, stop it, and if the whole complex is painful for you, consult an orthopedist for medical treatment of cervical osteochondrosis and see a physical therapy instructor.
You can do the following exercises daily (5-7 repetitions):
- Press your palms to your forehead and stretch your neck and try to move your palms with your forehead. Repeat this exercise on the back of the head, then on the right and left temples.
- Tilt your head back and then slowly lower it, pressing your chin to your chest.
- Stand straight and turn your head to the left as far as possible. Repeat the exercise on the right side.
- Tilt your head back and try to touch your shoulder with your ear. Repeat on both sides.
- Lower your chin to the neck notch and turn your head first to one side (5 times) and then to the other side in the same way.
Warming up the shoulders, for example, the "mill", will not be superfluous. Daily exercises performed in the early stages of the disease will help to treat cervical osteochondrosis without pills.
Please note: if you have already been diagnosed with osteochondrosis, do not describe a complete circle with your head, because. can be traumatic.
Diet in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis
Osteochondrosis of the cervical region is the so-called"diseases of the whole organism". Therefore, in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis, the diet has two goals: to saturate the body with nutrients and to limit substances that contribute to dehydration, mineralization and destruction of the joints.
Therefore, in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis, a special place in the diet should be occupied:
- Poultry, lean beef, game, liver and offal.
- Seafood - fish, shellfish, crustaceans, edible algae.
- Eggs and dairy products.
- Whole grains and legumes - oats, wheat (also sprouted), brown rice, beans, peas.
- Vegetables - carrots, spinach, bell peppers, broccoli, lettuce and others.
- Fruits - apricots, bananas, citrus fruits, plums, apples, avocados, peaches, pomegranates.
- Nuts.
- Any berries (fresh, dried, frozen) and dried fruit.
But marinades, salty foods, fast food, semi-finished products and sausages should be completely excluded. It is also important to reduce white bread, potatoes, sweets (except for dark chocolate and dried fruits), carbonated drinks and coffee "from a bag" in the menu - this will reduce the need for drug treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine.
Preparations for osteochondrosis
Conservative treatment of osteochondrosis includes various therapeutic measures - from massage and diet to therapeutic exercises and physiotherapy. All of them help to improve the patient's condition and prevent the development of complications. However, the leading method was and remains the use of drugs for the treatment of osteochondrosis.
Goals of medical treatment
Drug treatment of osteochondrosis is so effective in the early stages of the disease that, with the right treatment regimen, you can completely cure osteochondrosis or permanently eliminate its most unpleasant symptoms. In the later stages, medical limitation of the disease is possible.
Medicines for the treatment of osteochondrosis are designed to not only affect the disease symptomatically, but also to eliminate its causes systemically. Therefore, the therapy is carried out according to the following directions:
- anesthesia of the affected areas;
- removal of inflammation and relief of the acute period of the disease;
- restoration of microcirculation in the affected tissues;
- improving metabolic processes and protecting cartilage from further destruction (for example, by free radicals);
- regeneration of cartilage tissue in the intervertebral discs;
- restoration of mobility in the vertebral joints.
In cases where the disease is accompanied by depression or emotional stress, the therapy is also aimed at restoring the normal psychological state.
During the period of remission, patients can cope without medication or be enrolled in courses with prophylactic dosing.
Medicines for the effective treatment of osteochondrosis: release form
For the treatment of osteochondrosis, drugs intended for external and internal use are used. The choice of release form of the drug depends on the patient's habits and lifestyle, concurrent diagnoses and the stage of the disease.
Tablets and capsules
Osteochondrosis tablets and capsules are the most popular forms of release. They have high bioavailability and a systemic effect on the body.
The tablets should be taken directly with a meal, usually twice a day.
The main disadvantage of tablets (especially non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) is that they act directly on the mucous membrane of the digestive system. Such drugs are not recommended for permanent use due to the risk of inflammation and stomach ulcers. It should be taken under medical supervision.
Ointments, gels, creams and solutions for poultices
Topical preparations are excellent for local anesthesia, inflammation and swelling. They are considered much safer for the body than tablets, since they do not come into contact with mucous membranes and are absorbed into the blood in small quantities. Topical preparations have no cumulative effect, are easy to use, and usually do not require a prescription. They can be used continuously, not during courses. Among the external forms of release, it is worth highlighting the patches - they are simply attached to the affected area of the spine and can be worn all day under clothing.
Ointments, gels and creams are the best drugs for the treatment of osteochondrosis for patients who have contraindications to taking pills from the heart and endocrine system (with steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory components).
Injection solutions
Medicines intended for intravenous and intramuscular administration have maximum bioavailability and a reduced effect on the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract, since the active substances enter the blood directly.
Injectable drugs for osteochondrosis can quickly stop the aggravation of the disease, relieve pain, swelling and restore the sensitivity of nerve endings. Injections are an excellent alternative to oral medications for lactose intolerant patients. After all, most NSAID tablets contain lactose.
In case of particularly severe back pain, the drug is administered as a blockade - directly into the nerve. The effect of such an injection lasts for 3-4 weeks, but the procedure must be performed by a qualified health worker, since the blockade is close to the spine.
What drugs should be taken in osteochondrosis?
Medicines for the treatment of osteochondrosis differ not only in the form of release. In addition, they can be classified into the following pharmacological groups.
Anti-inflammatory drugs for the treatment of osteochondrosis
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in osteochondrosis are based on the suppression of the production of prostaglandins - hormone-like substances that cause inflammation and pain in the affected areas. Nonsteroidal drugs for the treatment of osteochondrosis can quickly eliminate pain and heat of the skin, restore local metabolism, relieve swelling, discomfort and deterioration of sensitivity, relieve pressure on the nerve roots of the spine.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for the treatment of osteochondrosis are produced in various dosage forms - capsules and tablets, gels and creams, solutions for intramuscular, intravenous or s / c administration. Treatment of NSAIDs with osteochondrosis drugs usually involves a combination of different forms. For example, tablets are used as the main therapy, gels and ointments "extinguish" the remaining inflammation, pain relief requires injections. Patches help relieve inflammation at all stages of the treatment.
Steroid (hormonal) anti-inflammatory drugs for the treatment of osteochondrosis are rarely used - especially in the most advanced cases, when other treatments have not shown results.
Chondroprotectors
In the case of osteochondrosis, the spring function of the intervertebral discs deteriorates, which directly depends on the volume and elasticity of the cartilage tissue. To maintain adequate cartilage thickness, the body must regenerate cartilage cells (chondrocytes) at a rate roughly equal to their destruction. But in case of dehydration, unbalanced nutrition, stress, metabolic or anatomical disorders, the speed of chondrocyte decomposition increases and the growth of new cells slows down or they do not have an adequate margin of safety. In order to protect the cartilage and restore its normal growth rate, it is worth taking special products based on glucosamine and chondroitin - chondroprotectors. Chondroprotective drugs for the effective treatment of osteochondrosis can stabilize the condition of the cartilage, prevent their further destruction and, in accordance with all medical recommendations, even promote the restoration of lost chondrocytes.
In order to have a lasting effect, chondroprotectors (in the form of tablets, injections or external agents) must be taken throughout life, in courses of 3-6 months.
Warming preparations
To eliminate the unpleasant sensations that occur in osteochondrosis, the so-calledwarming drugs. OK:
- dilates the blood vessels of the skin, which prevents the transmission of pain impulses to the brain;
- improves blood microcirculation in the connective tissue;
- distracts the patient from discomfort.
When using irritating drugs, the peak effect is observed after half an hour, and the pain-relieving effect lasts for 2-4 hours. A local increase in skin temperature is normal.
The list of drugs for the treatment of osteochondrosis includes ointments, creams, gels and tinctures:
- camphor (camphor ointment);
- turpentine;
- benzyl nicotinate;
- nonivamide;
- capsaicin (tincture of paprika);
- bee and snake venom.
Most of these drugs have a combined composition - for example, bee venom and NSAIDs or snake venom, salicylic acid and turpentine. Therefore, before use, you should make sure that you are not allergic to any of the ingredients.
Local and general pain relievers
Painkillers for osteochondrosis are usually used in the form of tablets and injections. In the case of average pain syndrome, the usual medicines in the first aid kit can help.
In the later stages of osteochondrosis, opioids are prescribed - strong drugs that have many contraindications.
For complex anesthesia (e. g. blockade) so-called"Cocktails" that simultaneously have pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, anti-inflammatory, local anesthetic and allergen-reducing effects.
Important! Painkillers only relieve pain without affecting its cause. Therefore, without proper treatment, osteochondrosis continues to develop, and more and more serious painkillers are needed.
vasodilators
Vasodilator drugs or vasodilators for the treatment of osteochondrosis help to restore normal blood supply to the tissues around the affected intervertebral joints.
Blood vessels constrict due to pain and muscle tension. This worsens tissue nutrition, causes oxygen starvation in the brain and accelerates the progression of the disease. Therefore, in the case of cervical osteochondrosis, drugs that normalize blood circulation are especially important.
Vascular drugs for osteochondrosis improve peripheral blood circulation and cell metabolism, relieve pain.
Antispasmodics and muscle relaxants
Antispasmodics and muscle relaxants are used to relieve spasm and tension. They normalize blood circulation, reduce pain, and restore mobility.
In order to increase the effect of muscle relaxants for the treatment of osteochondrosis, they can be prescribed together with clonazepam or diazepam (prescription drugs).
These drugs can be addictive, so use them with caution.
Tranquilizers
Symptoms of osteochondrosis and drug treatment often cause chronic stress, emotional stress, depression and other disorders of the psycho-emotional spectrum in patients.
For general relaxation and insomnia, you can use herbal preparations - for example, tincture of valerian, motherwort, peony.
In case of more serious diseases, taking antidepressants is recommended.
Vitamin and mineral complexes
Since osteochondrosis is considered a disease of the whole body, complex vitamin and mineral therapy is of great importance. Vitamin A, B, C, D, E, calcium and phosphorus preparations significantly improve the condition.
The vitamina natural antioxidant that stimulates the production of collagen and reduces the destruction of cartilage cells, promotes the renewal of joint tissues.
B vitaminsreduces pain, inflammation and numbness of the hands, improves the sensitivity of nerve fibers.
Vitamin Dresponsible for the absorption of calcium and helps to restore bone tissue lost due to osteochondrosis.
Vitamin Enecessary for the normalization of blood circulation, protection against free radicals and regeneration of cartilage.
Prevention
If attention is paid to the prevention of cervical osteochondrosis, even with the existing changes, its progress will slow down significantly. Doctors recommend the following:
- live an active lifestyle, avoid hypodynamia;
- minimize or eliminate heavy lifting;
- sleep on an orthopedic mattress and pillow;
- Do a regular warm-up if you have to work in front of a computer for a long time.
The ideal sport for osteochondrosis is swimming. Water relieves the spine, and active movements contribute to the development of the muscular skeleton.