Cervical osteochondrosis symptoms home treatment

Cervical osteochondrosis is a progressive disease characterized by deformity and structural changes of the intervertebral disc.

Cervical osteochondrosis has recently become more common, which can be explained by the spread of a sedentary lifestyle (driving, sitting at a computer).

Unlike thoracic and lumbar, cervical osteochondrosis occurs much more often due to the anatomy of the cervical spine. The fact is that in the neck the vertebrae are close enough to each other and the muscular frame is poorly developed, which leads to displacement of the vertebrae even at low loads in the neck and as a result to compression of blood vessels and nerves.

Causes of cervical osteochondrosis

Relationship - cervical osteochondrosis, dizziness, fears, tension and depression.

No less significant cause of manifestation and worsening of cervical and vertebral osteochondrosis is the mental factor of man - these are frequent or constant stress, fears, anxieties, a state of depression, which are always accompanied by emerging internal stress.

Our spine, including the cervical section, consists of 24 vertebrae and intervertebral discs (cartilage) and so that this whole structure is retained and strong, the spine is tied with many muscles and ligaments that create a kind of corset. A very important role in this design is played by the intervertebral discs, which allow the vertebrae to move relative to each other, resulting in cushioning.

When exactly these discs or vertebrae are damaged (change in structure due to metabolic disorders), osteochondrosis occurs, which is named after the affected area: cervical osteochondrosis, thoracic and lumbar.

In cervical osteochondrosis, the roots of the nerves extending from the spinal cord are pinched and the vessels are compressed, which disrupts blood flow. because in tense muscles the blood is difficult to move. Of course, the blood supply to the brain is also disrupted, resulting in oxygen starvation.

In addition, all these nerves coming out of the spinal cord are connected to our internal organs and therefore their work is also disrupted.

Osteochondrosis of the cervix can also be caused by:

• intervertebral disc injuries;
• weight lifting;
• incorrect posture;
• hypothermia, current;
• Improperly performed procedures, such as massage and others.
• overeating, overweight - excessive stress on the spine;
• the use of spicy, salty worsens osteochondrosis;
congenital or acquired scoliosis, kyphosis, lordosis;
• prolonged exposure to vibrations - work with construction machinery, driving a car, etc.
• uncomfortable bed, feathers, large pillows, therefore the position of the neck in sleep is wrong;
• hereditary predisposition;
• loads on the spine, not only strong but monotonous, for example;
• pathology of the musculoskeletal system;
• asymmetry of the temporomandibular joint, its injuries, chewing habits, improper occlusion;
• tight uncomfortable bra straps, tight collars;
• work with intense movements of the same type (especially when bending in half): cutting and chopping firewood, gardening with a shovel, with a hoe, washing the board, vacuum cleaner and the like.

Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis

The symptoms of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis directly depend on the purpose. In this regard, a group of syndromes accompanying this disease is distinguished:

• Radical syndromes.Radicular syndrome occurs when the nerve roots in the cervical region are compressed (pinched nerve). It is also called cervical radiculitis. The pain that occurs in the neck is transmitted downwards and can go down to the shoulder blade and even to the outside of the forearm to the fingers. Among the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, in some cases there is tingling in the forearm, hand or fingers, pasty, the effect of leaking goose bumps.
• Irritable reflex syndromes.In the case of reflex-reflex syndrome, the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis may include acute burning pain in the neck or nape of the neck, which occurs when moving after a static state (sudden rotation of the head, sneezing, after sleep). The pain can radiate to the shoulder and chest.
• Heart syndrome.The symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in this syndrome largely coincide with the symptoms of angina pectoris. In this case, it is very important not to make a mistake in the diagnosis. In cardinal syndrome, the nature of the pain is paroxysmal and prolonged (up to several hours). Increased pain occurs with sudden movements caused by coughing, sneezing and sudden dizziness. Often the appearance of tachycardia and extrasystole is observed against the background of the complete absence of signs of circulatory disorders.
• Spinal artery syndrome.In this case, cervical osteochondrosis is accompanied by such a symptom as a throbbing or burning headache, which most often affects the adrenal area, the back of the head, the temple, the darkness. The pain, as a rule, practically does not stop and only in some cases has paroxysmal character. Increased pain occurs when moving or after a long stay in an awkward position.

There is a possibility of hearing and visual impairment (decreased hearing and vision acuity, tinnitus, vestibular disorders, eye pain). Against the background of general weakness of the body, nausea or loss of consciousness is possible.

Summarizing the above, we can distinguish a number of symptoms most characteristic of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine:

• constant pain in the neck, which extends to the shoulder girdle, ears and eyes, nape and does not stop even at night;
• pain in the hands, forearms, shoulders, worsening even with light exertion;
• weakening of muscle strength and decreased sensitivity of the hands, arms, fingers, as well as difficulty in their movements;
• neck pain when turning and tilting the head;
• tension in the muscles of the neck, a feeling of relaxation in the morning;
• burning, tingling, numbness in the legs or arms;
• extensive headache with primary localization in the nape;
• darkening of the eyes, tinnitus, numbness of the tongue, dizziness, with a sharp turn of the head - fainting,
• decreased visual acuity and hearing;
• proliferation of connective tissue in the cervical spine;
• pain in the heart.

Drug for cervical osteochondrosis

Cervical osteochondrosis is a complex disease that requires long-term, systematic and gradual treatment. The therapy is aimed at eliminating the pain and fighting the inflammatory process in the affected area.

Patients are prescribed analgesics. Recently, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have become increasingly popular in the treatment of degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the spine, which effectively eliminate the pain syndrome and help reduce the activity of the inflammatory process.

In the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is indicated the appointment of chondroprotectors - drugs that slow down the destruction of cartilage. Many doctors believe that the use of these drugs also promotes the regeneration of cartilage tissue.

The use of topical ointments and gels containing irritants or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is ineffective. The active substance that is part of them is unlikely to reach the affected area due to the barrier of the skin, subcutaneous tissue and muscles. However, it makes sense to use these external agents, because when they are rubbed into the skin, a neck massage is performed.

To improve the regenerative and metabolic processes in the affected nerve root, patients are prescribed B vitamins. Very often doctors recommend to patients combined vitamin preparations that are administered intramuscularly.

Traditional methods for the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis

Folk remedies can not be written off - cervical osteochondrosis with its symptoms can be treated at home with essential oils, herbs, fats, roots and poisons. They are combined with alcohols, iodine and turpentine and receive quite effective anti-inflammatory and warming agents for external and internal use.

Phytotherapy of cervical osteochondrosis

Celery cleaner. Grate celery root on the finest grater, squeeze the juice. Take celery juice for cervical osteochondrosis, symptoms and treatment at home three times a day on a tablespoon before meals.

Less concentrated version of the drug - for 1 tablespoon of juice 100 ml of boiling water, leave for several hours and take a tablespoon of solution one hour before meals 4 times a day.

You can also use the root itself instead of juice - pour 3 grams of root in 0, 5 liters of boiling water, leave for several hours until completely cooled and drink 20 ml before each meal.

Bay leaf remedy. In an enamel saucepan pour 12 grams of bay leaf with 300 ml of cold water, boil for five minutes. Boil for three hours, drain. Throughout the day, between meals, drink the infusion in small sips. Drink the rest before bed. Continue to take the medicine for four days, take a break for a week and repeat the course. For prevention, repeat the course every spring.

Herbal collection of cervical osteochondrosis. Grind and mix 100 grams of chamomile, parsley, hops and oregano, add 100 grams of nettle leaves and 200 grams of burdock root. Boil in a thermos, pouring 1, 5 liters of boiling water. Leave for three days. Drink the strained solution on a tablespoon twice a day - morning and evening. Store in a cool, dark place.

friction

Red pepper remedy.Finely chop two hot red hot peppers, pour them into a tightly closed container and pour 200 ml of vegetable oil. Close tightly with a non-metallic lid. Leave in a dark, warm place for five days. Rub into the affected area with gentle movements twice a day. It is not necessary to take many funds at once, as this can burn a lot. The effect of the product is warming, blood circulation improves.

Oil based.Mix the egg with a tablespoon of vinegar, add a tablespoon of flour and 100 grams of softened butter. Leave the product for a few days in a dark place, remove the formed film on the surface of the mixture and rub it into the skin in the area of ​​cervical osteochondrosis during massage. Store the prepared mixture for no more than 3 days.

Compresses

Burdock and horseradish leaves have proven to be compresses. They are scalded with boiling water, applied to the damaged area and kept for several hours, wrapped in cotton cloth. Repeat 10 times daily. Repeat 2-4 times a year.

Therapeutic exercises for cervical osteochondrosis

These exercises will help both with existing osteochondrosis of the cervical spine and as a prophylaxis. Gymnastics for cervical osteochondrosis for preventive purposes can be performed in the evening at home, but for this it is better to use short breaks at work (this is a recommendation for those who have a sedentary job). Gymnastics with cervical osteochondrosis does not take much time, but gives a positive result quite quickly.

• Exercise 1.Sit up straight, tilt your head back and try to reach your right shoulder with your right ear, then return to the starting position. The exercise is performed slowly and smoothly, the muscles are not tense. Do five reps for each side.
• Exercise 2.Sit up straight, face forward, chin slightly raised. Slowly and smoothly turn your head to the right - as much as possible. Return to starting position and make the same left turn. Repeat 5 times in each direction.
• Exercise 3.Place your palm on your forehead and press your head on it, while the palm should remain in the same place, ie to withstand the pressure. During the pressure with the head you have to load the muscles of the neck. Slowly count to 5 next to you and relax. Repeat 3 times.
• Exercise 4.Exercise is similar to Exercise 3, only the palm (or two palms) should be placed on the back of the head and used to press on the palm. The tension should be maintained, counting to yourself up to 5. Repeat 3 times.
• Exercise 5.Exercise is similar to Exercise 3, but in this case place your right palm on your right temple and press your head against your palm. The voltage should be maintained, counting to yourself up to 5. Repeat 3 times. Then do the same by placing the left palm on the left temple - repeat 3 times.
• Exercise 6.Sit up straight, tilt your head back slightly, and then slowly, with tension, as if overcoming resistance, lower your head, pressing your chin to your chest. Repeat 5 times.
• Exercise 7.Sitting upright, lower your head and slowly turn your head to the right and left - 5 times in each direction. In this case, the head remains lowered.

Gymnastics for cervical osteochondrosis should not involve turning the head without arm support, especially when the neck is tense and sore.

Self-massage for cervical osteochondrosis

Self-massage never hurts, it is a key treatment at home. The main requirement is a sparing mode. You can not use excessive force, the procedure is performed exclusively with your fingers. You can do this at least all day. During training, it is recommended not to bend or tilt the neck to the sides.

Start with the upper cervical vertebra and gradually reduce the massaged area. The movements must be smooth spiral or circular, from the center to the periphery, from top to bottom. If a muscle in the cervical area is hard, it can be mixed separately. Remember the symmetrical load. The time for massaging the right and left part is approximately equal. It will not be possible to completely cure the disease with self-massage, but it is quite possible to slow down the disease and speed up recovery.

Nutrition in cervical osteochondrosis

In osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, doctors recommend eating small portions at least 5 times a day. Eat cooked or steamed meals. Drink at least 1, 5 liters of water a day. Season the salads with olive oil. Avoid cigarettes and alcoholic beverages.

Include the following products in the menu:

• lean meat: beef, rabbit, chicken;
• vegetables and fruits: cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, onions, peppers, beets, cabbage, broccoli, celery, eggplant, avocado, spinach, watercress;
• dairy products: cheese, cottage cheese, milk;
• seafood: fish, lobster, oysters, crabs;
• gelatin dishes: jelly, jelly meat, fish aspic;
• nuts and seeds: almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds;
• mushrooms, eggs, cereals.

Try to eat less sugar, grapes, broths. Exclude salty and smoked foods, flour products, hot spices from the diet.

Prevention of cervical osteochondrosis

As usual, proper prevention will help to avoid osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, but, of course, all exercise should be used regularly, otherwise there will be little benefit from "periodic" exercise.

Simple rules remain to be remembered:

• regularly engages in sports, especially swimming, water aerobics, stretching gymnastics and flexibility of the vertebrae is also suitable for the prevention of osteochondrosis, which can be practiced at home;
• Eat more foods high in calcium and magnesium. These are fish, peas, legumes, nuts, cheese, herbs, but it is better to refrain from sugar, flour, smoked, spicy;
• Choose a good orthopedic mattress and pillow that is perfect for the neck, keeping the head in the correct anatomical position during sleep (yes, your favorite huge down pillows will not disappear with spinal problems! ).
• during sedentary work, at least several times a day, perform a special set of therapeutic exercises.