No need for surgery to treat cervical osteochondrosis

Cervical osteochondrosis is a disease characterized by intervertebral disc injury.

Cervical osteochondrosis is one of the most common diseases in the world. According to statistics, about 60% of the world’s population have faced this situation because modern people lack physical activity and spend a lot of time on sedentary work. Osteochondrosis itself is manifested by the damage of intervertebral cartilage and the reaction process of adjacent tissues.

The vertebrae of the cervical spine are much smaller than the vertebrae of other spine, but the load they bear is not small. We keep turning our heads, which is why the neck is in a systematic movement. In the early stage of onset, the disease is difficult to identify, and patients often ignore the basic manifestations of the disease. The result is the appearance of cervical collar osteochondrosis, which significantly complicates the further treatment process.

A modern clinic used orthopedic and exercise therapy to successfully treat cervical osteochondrosis through non-surgical methods.

Neck pain with osteochondrosis

Causes of neck osteochondrosis

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

  • Lack of physical activity is the main reason leading to the development of dangerous diseases. A complete lack of moderate physical activity can lead to muscle and bone degeneration. Insufficient daily activities are not only a problem for office workers and drivers. People who like to spend their free time on the computer or watching TV suffer from physical weakness.
  • Excessive physical activity. In most cases, professional athletes who bear axial loads on their back suffer from this kind of pain. Working at the limit of possibilities also threatens novice athletes, who train without the supervision of a professional coach and practice with incorrect techniques.
  • Wearing high heels and uncomfortable shoes when walking, scoliosis, flat feet, and improper body posture during sleep can all adversely affect posture.
  • Excessive weight will put an excessive burden on the spine, causing vertebrae to shift and cartilage structure wear.
  • Rheumatism.
  • Disorders of the endocrine system.
  • pressure.
  • Hypothermia in the neck.
  • Sedentary lifestyle (such as drivers and office workers) or excessive physical activity (such as athletes).

Usually, under the influence of these factors, the cervical spine will produce a load, thereby forming muscle spasms. As a result, the blood circulation process is interrupted and the metabolism deteriorates, which leads to degenerative changes.

An interesting fact: The risk of diseases such as osteochondrosis is largely related to the evolution of the human body. This is about walking upright. Throughout the life cycle, the spine assumes the "core" function of our body. The vertebrae press on the cartilage discs, gradually wearing them away, so the connective tissue degenerates. Because of this, osteochondrosis tends to appear in old age.

The symptoms and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis largely depend on the cause of the onset of the disease. In order to develop a personal treatment plan, the doctor will conduct a series of examinations. It is strongly recommended not to treat neck pain on your own. Incorrect massage, medicine or traditional medical methods can worsen the situation and lead to a series of irreparable consequences!

Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis

Cervical osteochondrosis: symptoms and treatment

The manifestation of dangerous diseases depends on two main factors:

  1. The type of cervical spine load.
  2. The area where the cartilage structure of the intervertebral disc is damaged.

The nerve root performs a large number of functions, so the symptoms of damage to its various parts may vary greatly. In addition, you need to consider the stage of development of the disease. There are 4 of them, each of which is heavier than the previous one.

Cervical osteochondrosis degree 1

This level is called preclinical level and is rarely expressed, which is why patients attribute symptoms to stress, lack of sleep, and other seemingly trivial problems. The spine begins to protect itself from "destructive" movements and excessive stress, so people begin to feel discomfort.

The main symptoms are:

  • Headache
  • Discomfort in the neck, shoulders, and arms
  • Mild visual impairment
  • Slightly reduced neck movement

One of the most significant symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in the preclinical stage is the constant tension of the neck muscles. Muscles can quickly become overworked, which can cause a tolerable pain and a crunching sound when turning/tilting the head.

Since the above problems do not cause too much discomfort, most patients are more willing to go with the flow. In fact, the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is already necessary, because the earlier the treatment is started, the better the effect will be.

Second degree cervical osteochondrosis

In this case, the patient starts to feel significant pain when tilting/turning the head. Usually, the uncomfortable sensation spreads to the arms, shoulder joints and hands. The state of the nervous system begins to appear: a person becomes irritable and absent-minded, and his daily work ability is significantly reduced. The basic symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in women are almost the same as the symptoms of reproductive system problems (weakness, fatigue, depression, etc. ).

Although there are obvious signs of disease development, it is still possible to get rid of cervical osteochondrosis. First of all, doctors work hard to eliminate the risk of hernia, which can cause deterioration of the mobility of the limbs and the blood supply to the brain.

The main symptoms are:

  • Severe neck pain
  • Noise in ears
  • Visual impairment
  • Decreased sensitivity of shoulder and arm skin
  • Worsening tendon reflexes

Cervical osteochondrosis degree 3

At this stage of development, this disease has been considered neglected. The treatment of stage 3 cervical osteochondrosis is more difficult because the destruction/deformation of the cartilage structure is usually irreversible. The pain syndrome is getting more and more serious, which is related to the active development of the hernia and the friction between the bone tissue of the vertebrae.

In addition to pain, patients may also feel weak and dizzy. The reason is that the large blood vessels and nerves passing through the spine are violated. The brain receives insufficient nutrients and oxygen, which can cause confusion. The pain radiated to the upper limbs, and the arm felt weak. Another obvious sign of grade 3 osteochondrosis is loss of sensitivity and finger tingling.

The main symptoms are:

  • Increased pain
  • Cervical hernia
  • Very weak tendon reflex
  • Upper limb paralysis

Cervical Osteochondrosis Grade 4

The cartilage tissue of the intervertebral disc has undergone major changes due to destruction. In the fourth stage of the disease, 99% of cases will have hernias and hernias, which has a significant negative impact on the patient's condition. The body begins to recover independently and "build up" tissues in the injured area of the intervertebral disc. As a result, the pillar itself loses its mobility.

As the nerves and blood vessels are compressed, people will lose movement coordination. Drowsiness, apathy and pain will only increase. Patients often complain of annoying tinnitus. In addition, the fourth stage of cervical osteochondrosis threatens many of the following consequences:

  1. Cerebral ischemia, risk of spinal stroke. This is due to strong compression of the vertebral artery.
  2. Impaired perception of the surrounding world and systematic loss of consciousness. The reason is that the blood vessels are compressed and the blood supply to the cerebral cortex is insufficient.
  3. Fatal result. Spinal cord clamps can have catastrophic consequences.

The main symptoms are:

  • Brain activity inhibition
  • Lack of coordination
  • Increased dizziness
  • paralysis
  • Hearing and vision loss
  • Angina pectoris, shortness of breath

How to cure cervical osteochondrosis: diagnosis stage

Before starting to eliminate the disease, the doctor will conduct a comprehensive examination of the patient's cervical spine. This is necessary to determine the fact that the disease exists and is ignored. Diagnosis includes several stages:

  1. X-ray. This is a visual method of determining the position of the vertebrae and their changes in mobility.
  2. Laboratory research. With the help of the examination, the doctor can determine the disease of the spine and make a final diagnosis.
  3. CT. This is a modern technique used to assess disc rupture and height changes. In addition, computed tomography helps to track the instability of individual vertebrae.
  4. Nuclear magnetic resonance. The current stage of the examination is to determine the state of the nerve roots, the quality of blood circulation, and the pathological changes of the cartilage/skeletal structure.
  5. Differential diagnosis. This includes ultrasound scans, electrocardiograms, and several other procedures. They are necessary so as not to confuse osteochondrosis with other diseases with the same symptoms. These include urinary system diseases, various spinal deformities, hip joint injuries, and central nervous system diseases.

Without a comprehensive diagnosis, it is impossible to determine the symptoms and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis. The sooner it is done, the more effective the treatment will be. If you find symptoms of this disease, please see your GP as soon as possible. He will be referred for appointments with more narrow experts: a neurologist and an orthopedic surgeon. In some cases, if signs of disease overlap with suspected angina or myocardial ischemia, it may be necessary to consult a cardiologist.

The structure of the cervical spine

In modern clinics, the diagnosis and successful treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is based on the use of exercise therapy. With the help of this rehabilitation technology, patients perform a series of physical exercises on special sports equipment to restore their health, which significantly improves their health.

Basic methods for treating cervical osteochondrosis in men and women

Only by adopting a comprehensive approach to the problem can we obtain high-quality and stable results in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis. The effect of rehabilitation depends to a large extent on the patient's mood. They must completely change their lifestyle, diet, sleep and wakefulness.

It is absolutely impossible to treat cervical osteochondrosis in women and men independently, because the basic symptoms of the disease may herald the development of completely different diseases. Choosing drugs without the doctor’s knowledge can severely exacerbate this situation. Even the basic painkillers may not be able to achieve the desired effect, which once again proves that you need to consult an expert in advance.

Eliminate increased pain

The disease usually manifests in the form of tingling, pain, and stretching pain syndromes. The main task of the doctor is to relieve your pain, so first of all, the specialist will prescribe:

  • Anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Vitamin
  • painkiller;
  • Cartilage protective agent.

The last class of drugs is designed to restore cartilage structure, which is particularly important in the late stages of the disease. In addition, some drugs will be prescribed to patients to relieve muscle spasms and improve blood flow in the body.

Therapeutic gymnastics

Physical therapists know how to get rid of cervical osteochondrosis in the most affordable way. Exercise therapy is one of the most effective ways to treat osteochondrosis, and it can be used even at home. Exercise intensity has no effect in this situation. The regularity of moderate physical activity will help achieve results. The effects of exercise are as follows:

  1. Strengthen the neck muscles, which are responsible for supporting weak vertebrae.
  2. Stimulate and normalize the blood supply in the body, which is especially important for the cerebral cortex.
  3. Improve a person's overall tone, energy, productivity and recovery of work ability.

Exercise therapy courses are allowed every day. This set of exercises includes various head rotations and tilts. Appropriate physical fitness, difficulty increases, and hand movements are related to work. The advantage of therapeutic gymnastics elements is that they can even be used in the workplace. But remember, they can only be performed after the acute pain syndrome is eliminated.

As an additional burden, doctors advise patients to go to the swimming pool, because swimming can reduce the pressure on the spine and reduce the pressure on the intervertebral discs. Show and use light dumbbells to strengthen the shoulder straps.

physiotherapy

There are many physical therapy methods:

  1. Electrophoresis.
  2. Magnetic, laser and shock wave therapy.
  3. Mud therapy.
  4. Medicinal baths and showers.

The above are just the main treatments, aimed at restoring the blood supply to the affected spine, eliminating inflammation, pain, and slowing the ossification process of the neck.

massage

The treatment of cervical osteochondrosis by massage is very common worldwide. But this method must be used very carefully, because rough and incompetent impact on the damaged part of the neck can make the condition worse. Before making an appointment with a masseur, you should consult your doctor.

Due to the influence of the hand on the painful area, the muscle tone is reduced, thus getting rid of painful cramps. It can also improve blood circulation and restore the patient's clear thinking and overall health.

Operation

The final stage of the disease's development leads to the formation of severe intervertebral hernias and narrowing of the spinal canal. In this case, the treatment of the patient may require surgical intervention. The surgeon decides whether surgery is needed. He also determined the complexity of preparatory measures and the time for postoperative recovery and recovery.

Most surgical procedures involve removing the resulting hernia and replacing damaged vertebrae.

Clinical treatment of cervical osteochondrosis

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in a professional clinic involves the use of non-surgical methods. Experts work according to unique techniques developed based on the principles of exercise therapy. Patients who ask us for help receive a series of physical exercises in specially equipped rooms.

The treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is carried out according to a procedure established by the individual. The therapeutic effect is not only on specific parts of the spine, but also on internal organs. The process of non-toxic non-surgical treatment is difficult, but we provide all-round support for patients to help them be more decisive and re-examine their attitudes towards the disease.

This is the construction of the healing process:

  1. At least 2-3 training sessions per week in the rehabilitation room.
  2. Flower bed therapeutic gymnastics.
  3. Perform hyperthermia according to individual indications.
  4. Use ice massage to relieve pain.
  5. Therapeutic/restorative massage.
  6. Adaptation exercises suitable for working at home.
  7. Ultrasound microanatomy studies to track recovery over time.
  8. Personal consultation with specialists in exercise therapy clinics.
Prevent cervical osteochondrosis

Prevent osteochondrosis

In the context of modern medicine, the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis includes many effective methods. However, it is much better to prevent this problem from appearing than to solve it. There is a set of preventive measures to minimize the risk of the emergence and development of dangerous diseases:

  1. Take a 10-minute hot bath every day. It is also recommended to visit the bathroom/sauna systematically. Please note that these recommendations only apply to people who do not have cardiovascular health problems.
  2. Go swimming and take regular walks in the fresh air at a relaxed pace. Lack of physical activity is one of the main causes of diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
  3. Reject the excessive physical exertion under the limit of human ability. This is especially true when working in the gym. The critical axial load on the spine causes protrusion.
  4. Try to avoid back stab wounds, especially when you are over 30 years old.
  5. Check your diet. Try to eliminate the intake of sweets, flour, salt and sugar. Reducing the calorie content of food can avoid overweight, which will put extra stress on the spine.
  6. If you work in an office and spend a lot of time on the computer, please pay attention to buying a special chair with lumbar and neck support. Try to do a basic warm-up exercise every 60 minutes.
  7. If you experience pain after waking up, consider buying an orthopedic mattress and pillow. If possible, find a flat, hard bed.
  8. To avoid degenerative and dystrophic changes in the cervical spine, please visit a professional massage therapist at least 2-3 times a year. Neck and collar massage is one of the most effective preventive measures.
  9. Women should try to avoid walking in high heels as this will interfere with the natural position of the spine. When the diagnosis is flat feet, it is recommended to buy special shoes or insoles, because orthopedic products can correct the position of the foot and reduce unnecessary pressure on the spine.

also:

  • You should take a bath regularly
  • You need to give up bodybuilding, which can lead to a herniated cervical disc
  • Gentle exercise can prevent diseases well

result

Treatment of osteochondrosis in professional clinics is carried out under the strict supervision of highly qualified specialists. Doctors adhere to a comprehensive 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-treat, and delay seeing a doctor. Start your journey of a healthy and happy life!