Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine without surgery

18 December 2021

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is a disease characterized by damage to the intervertebral discs.

Cervical osteochondrosis is one of the most common diseases in the world. Statistically, about 60% of the world's population has experienced it, as modern humans suffer from physical inactivity and also spend a lot of time in sedentary work. Osteochondrosis manifests itself in the form of damage to the intervertebral cartilage, as well as by reactive processes in adjacent tissues.

The vertebrae of the cervical spine are much smaller than the vertebrae of the other spine, but the load on them is not less. We are constantly turning our head, which is why the neck is in systematic motion. In the early stages, the disease is difficult to recognize and the underlying manifestations of the disease are often overlooked by patients. The result is the onset of osteochondrosis of the cervix, which significantly complicates the further treatment process.

A modern clinic successfully treats neck osteochondrosis with non-surgical methods with correction and kinesiotherapy.

Causes of osteochondrosis of the throat

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

Physical inactivity is the main reason that precedes the development of a dangerous disease. The complete absence of moderate physical activity leads to degradation of the muscular and skeletal system. Inadequate daily activity is not just a problem for office workers and drivers. People who prefer to spend their free time at the computer or watching TV suffer from weakness.
Excessive physical activity. Most of the time, professional athletes who are exposed to axial loads on the back suffer from it. Working to the limit is also a threat to novice athletes who train without the supervision of a professional coach and perform exercises with incorrectly defined technique.
Negative factors for posture are walking in high heels and uncomfortable shoes, scoliosis, flat feet, as well as inappropriate posture during sleep.
Excess weight puts too much strain on the spine, leading to displacement of the vertebrae and wear of the cartilaginous structures.
Rheumatism.
Disorders of the endocrine system.
Stress.
Hypothermia of the neck.
Sedentary lifestyle (such as drivers and office workers) or excessive physical activity (such as athletes).

As a rule, under the influence of these factors, a load appears on the cervical vertebrae, which causes the formation of muscle spasm. As a result, the blood circulation process is disrupted and the metabolism deteriorates, which leads to degenerative changes.

An interesting fact: the risk of developing such a disease as osteochondrosis is largely related to the evolutionary changes in the human body. This is walking upright. Throughout life cycle, the spine performs the function of the "core" of our body. The vertebrae press on their cartilaginous discs gradually wear out and thus the connective tissue degrades. Because of this, osteochondrosis is often felt in old age.

The symptoms and treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine will largely depend on the reasons that caused the onset of the disease. In order to develop an individual treatment plan, doctors perform a whole series of tests. Self-medication for neck pain is strongly discouraged. Improper massages, medicines or methods of traditional medicine can worsen the condition and lead to a number of irreparable consequences!

Osteochondrosis of the cervix: symptoms and treatment

The manifestations of a dangerous disease depend on 2 main factors:

Type of load on the cervical spine.
The point of damage to the cartilaginous structure of the intervertebral disc.

The roots of the nerves perform a large number of functions, therefore, the symptoms of damage to their individual parts can vary greatly. In addition, you must take into account the stage of development of the disease. There are 4 of them, each of which is heavier than the previous one.

Grade 1 cervical osteochondrosis

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

The main symptoms are:

headache
discomfort in the neck, shoulders and arms
mild vision
a slight decrease in neck motor activity

One of the most noticeable symptoms of the preclinical stage of cervical osteochondrosis is the constant tension of the neck muscles. The muscles tense quickly, which leads to a feeling of excruciating pain, as well as a crease when turning / tilting the head.

Since the above problems do not cause much discomfort, most patients prefer to let the condition go its way. In fact, it is already necessary to start treatment for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, because the earlier the treatment is started, the more effective it will be.

2nd degree cervical osteochondrosis

In this case, patients begin to feel noticeable pain when tilting / turning their head. Often, uncomfortable sensations spread to the hands, shoulder joints and arms. Problems with the state of the nervous system begin to appear: a person becomes irritable, absent, his daily ability to work is significantly reduced. The main symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in women are almost the same as the symptoms of problems with the reproductive system (weakness, fatigue, lethargy and much more).

Despite the obvious signs of developing the disease, it is still possible to get rid of osteochondrosis of the throat. First of all, doctors work to eliminate the risk of hernia, which leads to deterioration of limb mobility and blood supply to the brain.

The main symptoms are:

severe neck pain
noise in the ears
vision problem
reduced sensitivity of the skin of the shoulders and arms
deterioration of tendon reflexes

Cervical osteochondrosis of 3 degrees

At this stage of development, the disease is already considered neglected. Treatment of stage 3 cervical osteochondrosis is more difficult, as the destruction / deformation of cartilaginous structures is often irreversible. The pain syndrome intensifies, which is associated with the active development of hernias and the friction of the bone tissues of the vertebrae between them.

In addition to the pain, the patient feels weak and complains of dizziness. The reason for this is the involvement of large vessels and nerves that pass through the spine. The brain receives insufficient amounts of food and oxygen, which can lead to blurred consciousness. The pain radiates to the upper extremities, there is a feeling of weakness in the hands. Another clear sign of grade 3 osteochondrosis is loss of sensitivity in the fingers, as well as tingling in them.

The main symptoms are:

increased pain
hernia of the cervical spine
very weak tendon reflexes
paralysis of the upper extremities

Grade 4 cervical osteochondrosis

The cartilaginous tissues of the intervertebral discs have already undergone major changes due to destruction. In stage 4 of the disease, in 99% of cases there are protrusions and hernias, which have a significant negative effect on the patient's condition. The body begins independent recovery and "gathers" tissue in the areas of disc damage. As a result, the pillar itself loses its mobility.

As the nerves and blood vessels constrict, the person loses coordination of movements. Drowsiness, apathy and pain only intensify. Patients often complain of annoying tinnitus. In addition, stage 4 cervical osteochondrosis threatens a number of the following consequences:

Cerebral ischemia, risk of stroke. This is due to the strong compression of the vertebral arteries.
Disturbance of perception of the surrounding world and systematic loss of consciousness. The reason is the stinging of blood vessels and insufficient blood supply to the cerebral cortex.
Fatal outcome. A catastrophic consequence can occur as a result of tightening of the spinal cord.

The main symptoms are:

depression of brain activity
lack of coordination
increased dizziness
paralysis
hearing and vision loss
angina, shortness of breath

How to treat cervical osteochondrosis: the diagnostic stage

Before beginning the elimination of the disease, the doctors perform a complete examination of the cervical spine of the patient. This is necessary to establish the fact of the presence and neglect of the disease. The diagnosis consists of several stages:

X-ray. This is a visual way of determining the position of the vertebrae, as well as changes in their mobility.
Laboratory research. With the help of tests, doctors diagnose spinal disorders and also make a final diagnosis.
CT. It is a modern technique for estimating ruptures and changes in the height of the intervertebral discs. Computed tomography also helps to monitor the instability of individual vertebrae.
MRI. The presented stage of the examination is performed in order to determine the condition of the nerve roots, the quality of the blood circulation, as well as the pathological changes in the cartilaginous / bone structures.
Differential diagnosis. This includes ultrasound, cardiogram and many other procedures. They are necessary in order not to confuse osteochondrosis with other diseases that have identical symptoms. These include diseases of the urinary system, all kinds of deformities of the spine, injuries of the hip, as well as disorders of the central nervous system.

The diagnosis and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is impossible without a complete diagnosis. The sooner it is done, the more effective the treatment will be. If you notice symptoms of the disease, see your doctor as soon as possible. Will provide referrals for appointments with narrower profile specialists: neurologist and orthopedist. In some cases, you may need to consult a cardiologist if the signs of the disease coincide with suspected angina or ischemia of the heart muscle.

In modern clinics, the diagnosis and successful treatment of osteochondrosis of the neck is made based on the use of kinesiotherapy. With the help of this therapeutic technique, patients, by performing a set of physical exercises on special exercise machines for recovery, significantly improve their health.

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in women and men basic methods

A high quality and stable result in the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine can be achieved only with a comprehensive approach to the problem. The effectiveness of recovery largely depends on the mood of the patient, who should completely review their lifestyle, diet, sleep and wakefulness.

Independent treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in women and men is by no means possible, as the main symptoms of the disease can signal the development of a completely different disease. Medications chosen without the knowledge of a doctor can seriously aggravate the condition. Even basic painkillers do not always have the expected effect, which proves once again the need for prior consultation with a specialist.

Elimination of pain exacerbations

The disease often manifests itself in the form of a pain syndrome with a knife, ache and traction. The main task of the doctor is to relieve your pain, so, first of all, the specialists prescribe:

Anti-inflammatory drugs;
Vitamins?
Painkillers?
Chondroprotective.

The latter class of drugs aims to restore the cartilaginous structures, which is especially important in advanced stages of the disease. In addition, patients are prescribed medications to relieve muscle spasms and improve blood flow to the body.

Therapeutic gymnastic exercises

Physiotherapists know how to get rid of cervical osteochondrosis in the most economical ways. Exercise therapy is one of the most effective methods of treating osteochondrosis, which can be used even at home. The intensity of the exercise in this case does not play any role. The tactics of moderate physical activity will help to achieve the result. Here is the result of the exercise:

Strengthen the muscles in the neck, which are responsible for supporting the weakened vertebrae.
Stimulation and normalization of blood supply to the body, which is particularly important for the cerebral cortex.
Increase overall tone, energy charge, restore a person's productivity and work capacity.

Treatment courses are allowed on a daily basis. The set of exercises includes all kinds of rotations and tilts of the head. With the right level of fitness, the level of difficulty increases and the movements of the hands are associated with work. The advantage of therapeutic gymnastics elements is that they can be used even in the workplace. But remember that they can only take place after the acute pain syndrome has been eliminated.

As an added burden, doctors recommend that patients visit the pool, as swimming relieves pressure on the spine and relieves stress on the intervertebral discs. Show up and work with light dumbbells to strengthen the shoulder girdle.

Physiotherapy

There are many methods of physical therapy:

Electrophoresis.
Magnet, laser and shock wave treatment.
Mud therapy.
Medical baths and showers.

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

Massage

Massage treatment of cervical osteochondrosis of the spine is widespread throughout the world. But this method must be used with great caution, as a rough and insufficient impact on the damaged parts of the neck can lead to worsening of the condition. Before making an appointment with a masseur, you should consult your doctor.

Thanks to the effect of the hands on the sore area, muscle tone is reduced, which leads to relief from painful spasms. It also improves blood circulation, restores clarity of thought and general well-being of the patient.

Surgery

The last stage of the development of the disease leads to the formation of severe intervertebral hernias, as well as to narrowing of the lumen of the spine. Treatment of the patient in this case may require surgery. The surgeon decides if surgery is necessary. It also defines the set of preparatory measures, the period of postoperative rehabilitation and rehabilitation.

Most surgeries involve the removal of the resulting hernias, as well as the replacement of damaged vertebrae.

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in the clinic

The treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in a professional clinic involves the use of exclusively non-surgical methods. Specialists work according to a unique technique developed based on the principles of kinesiotherapy. Patients who turn to us for help are treated with a set of physical exercises in a specially equipped room.

The treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is carried out according to an individually developed program. The therapeutic effect is not only on a specific part of the spine, but also on the internal organs. The process of treatment without drugs and non-surgery is difficult, but we provide comprehensive support to patients, help them become more determined and reconsider their attitude towards their disease.

This is the basis of the healing process:

Workouts in the rehabilitation room at least 2-3 times a week.
Therapeutic gymnastics Parterre.
Heat therapy according to individual indications.
Pain relief with ice massage.
Therapeutic / remedial massage.
Adaptive exercises for work at home.
Microanatomic ultrasound studies to monitor recovery over time.
Personal consultation with clinical kinesiotherapy specialists.

Prevention of osteochondrosis

The treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in modern medicine includes many effective methods. But it is much better not to allow this problem to occur at all than to deal with its elimination. There is a set of precautions that will minimize the risk of developing and developing a dangerous condition:

Take a 10-minute hot shower daily. Regular visits to the baths / saunas are also recommended. Keep in mind that these recommendations are only suitable for people without cardiovascular health problems.
Go swimming and take regular walks in the fresh air at a leisurely pace. Physical inactivity is one of the main causes of diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
Discard excessive physical exercise to the limit of human potential. This is especially true when you work out in the gym. Critical axial loads on the spine lead to protrusion.
Try to avoid back stabbings, especially if you are over 30 years old.
Review your diet. Try to exclude confectionery, flour, moderate salt and sugar intake. Reducing the calorie content of food allows you to avoid gaining too much weight, which puts extra strain on the spine.
If you work in an office and spend a lot of time on the computer, be sure to buy a special chair with lumbar and neck support. Try to do basic warm-up exercises every 60 minutes.
In case of pain after waking up, consider buying an orthopedic mattress and pillow. If possible, get a bed with a flat, hard surface.
To avoid degenerative and dystrophic changes in the cervical spine, visit a professional massage therapist at least 2-3 times a year. Neck and collar massage is one of the most effective preventative measures.
Women should minimize walking in high heels, as this interferes with the natural position of the spine. With flat feet, it is recommended to buy special shoes or insoles, as orthopedic products correct the position of the foot and relieve unnecessary stress from the spine.

As:

you should visit the bathroom regularly
you should give up bodybuilding, which can contribute to the protrusion of the cervical disc
Mild exercise can be a good disease prevention

Result

The treatment of osteochondrosis in a professional clinic is carried out under the strict supervision of highly qualified specialists. Doctors take a holistic approach to working with patients and even treat advanced stages of the disease. If you notice symptoms of osteochondrosis, you do not need to be patient, self-medicate and delay seeing a doctor. Start your journey for a healthy, happy life!