Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine without surgery

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 faced it because modern people suffer from physical inactivity and spend a lot of time in sedentary work. Osteochondrosis is manifested by damage to the intervertebral cartilage as well as reactive processes in adjacent tissues.

The vertebrae in the cervical spine are much smaller than the vertebrae in the other spines, but the load is not less. We are constantly turning our heads, so our necks are in systematic motion. In the initial stages, the disease is difficult to recognize and the basic manifestations of the disease are often overlooked by patients. The result is the initiation of osteochondrosis of the cervical collar, which significantly complicates the further process of treatment.

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

Causes of cervical osteochondrosis

Several factors can contribute to the development of osteochondrosis:

• Physical inactivity is the main cause that prevents the development of a dangerous disease. A complete lack of moderate physical activity leads to muscle and skeletal degradation. Insufficient daily activity is not just a problem for office workers and drivers. Those who prefer to spend their free time at the computer or watching TV suffer from hypodynamics.
• Excessive physical activity. Most often, professional athletes suffer from this, who are exposed to axial load on the back. Working to the limit is also a threat to novice athletes who train without the supervision of a professional coach and perform exercises with an improperly set technique.
• Negative posture factors include walking in high heels and uncomfortable shoes, scoliosis, flat feet, and poor posture during sleep.
• Being overweight puts too much strain on the spine, leading to dislocation of the vertebrae and wear of the cartilage structures.
• Rheumatism.
• Disorders of the endocrine system.
• Tension.
• Hypothermia of the neck.
• Sedentary lifestyle (e. g. , drivers and office workers) or excessive physical activity (e. g. , athletes).

Usually, these factors cause strain on the cervical vertebrae, which causes the formation of muscle cramps. As a result, the circulatory process is disrupted, and metabolism deteriorates, leading to degenerative changes.

Interesting fact, the risk of developing such a disease, such as osteochondrosis, is largely related to the evolutionary changes in the human body. It's about straight walking. The spine acts as the "core" of our body throughout its life cycle. The vertebrae gradually deplete the discs, causing the connective tissue to break down. This is why osteochondrosis often feels old.

The symptoms and treatment of cervical spine osteochondrosis are highly dependent on the causes of the disease. Physicians perform a number of tests to develop an individual treatment plan. Self-treatment of neck pain is strongly contraindicated. Improper massages, medications, or traditional remedies can make the situation worse and have irreparable consequences!

Cervical osteochondrosis: symptoms and treatment

The onset of a dangerous disease depends on 2 main factors:

1. Type of cervical spine load.
2. Location of damage to the cartilage structure of the intervertebral disc.

Nerve roots have a number of functions, so the symptoms of damage to each part can be very different. 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 1 degree

This grade is called preclinical and is poorly expressed, so patients attribute the symptoms to stress, lack of sleep, and other seemingly serious problems. The spine begins to defend itself against "destructive" movements and excessive stress, making people begin to feel uncomfortable.

The main symptoms are:

• headache
• discomfort in the neck, shoulders and arms
• mild visual impairment
• a slight decrease in neck motor activity

One of the most prominent symptoms of the preclinical stage of cervical osteochondrosis is constant tension in the neck muscles. The muscles overload quickly, leading to a tolerable feeling of pain and crackling when the head is turned / tilted.

Because the above problems do not cause much discomfort, most patients prefer to let the situation develop. In fact, treatment for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine needs to be started because the earlier the therapy starts, the more effective it will be.

Grade 2 cervical osteochondrosis

In this case, patients feel noticeable pain when they tilt / turn their heads. Often, discomfort spreads to the arms, shoulder joints, and hands. Problems with the state of the nervous system are beginning to appear: the person will be irritable, have fun, and his daily ability to work will be noticeably reduced. The basic symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in women are almost identical to those of problems with the reproductive system (weakness, fatigue, apathetic mood, and more).

Despite the obvious signs of the disease developing, it is still possible to get rid of cervical osteochondrosis. Above all, doctors are working to eliminate the risk of hernias that lead to impaired limb motility and the blood supply to the brain.

The main symptoms are:

• severe neck pain
• noise in the ear
• vision impairment
• decreased sensitivity of the skin on the shoulders and arms
• deterioration of tendon reflexes

Cervical osteochondrosis 3 degrees

At this stage of development, the disease is already considered neglected. Treatment of stage 3 osteochondrosis of the neck is more difficult because the destruction / deformation of cartilage structures is often irreversible. Pain syndrome is getting stronger, linked to the active formation of hernias and the friction between the bone tissues of the vertebrae.

In addition to pain, the patient experiences weakness and complains of dizziness. This is due to damage to the large blood vessels and nerves passing through the spine. The brain does not receive adequate amounts of nutrients and oxygen, which can lead to a blurring of consciousness. The pain radiates to the upper limbs, there is a feeling of weakness in the arms. Another clear sign of grade 3 osteochondrosis is loss of sensation in the fingers as well as tingling.

The main symptoms are:

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

Grade 4 cervical osteochondrosis

The cartilaginous tissues of the intervertebral discs have already undergone significant changes as a result of destruction. In stage 4 of the disease, 99% of cases have protrusions and hernias that have a significant negative effect on the patient’s condition. The body begins to recover on its own and "builds up" the tissues in the areas damaged by the disc. As a result, the column itself loses its mobility.

As the nerves and blood vessels are compressed, the person loses coordination of movements. Drowsiness, apathy, and pain only increase. Patients often complain of annoying tinnitus. In addition, stage 4 osteochondrosis of the neck threatens to have a number of consequences:

1. Cerebral ischemia, risk of developing spinal cord stroke. This is due to strong compression of the vertebral arteries.
2. Impaired perception of the world around us and systematic loss of consciousness. This is due to pinching of the blood vessels and insufficient blood supply to the cerebral cortex.
3. Fatal outcome. Squeezing the spinal cord can have catastrophic consequences.

The main symptoms are:

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

How to cure osteochondrosis of the neck: the diagnostic stage

Before starting to eradicate the disease, doctors perform a comprehensive examination of the patient's cervical spine. This is necessary to establish the presence and neglect of the disease. The diagnostics consists of several stages:

1. X-ray. It is a visual method for determining the location of vertebrae and changes in their mobility.
2. Laboratory research. The tests are used by doctors to diagnose spinal abnormalities and make a definitive diagnosis.
3. CT. This is a modern technique for assessing ruptures and elevation changes in intervertebral discs. In addition, computed tomography helps monitor the instability of individual vertebrae.
4. MRI. The presented section of the study is used to determine the condition of the nerve roots, the quality of blood circulation, and abnormalities in cartilage / bone structures.
5. Differential diagnostics. This includes an ultrasound scan, a cardiogram, and a number of other procedures. They are needed to avoid confusing osteochondrosis with other diseases that have the same symptoms. These include urinary tract diseases, all kinds of deformities of the spine, hip injuries, and disorders of the central nervous system.

Determining and treating the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis is impossible without a comprehensive diagnosis. The sooner it is performed, the more effective the therapy will be. If you notice any symptoms of the disease, see your doctor as soon as possible. For narrower professionals, you will be referred to a neurologist and orthopedist. In some cases, consultation with a cardiologist may be required if signs of the disease overlap with suspected angina or myocardial ischemia.

In modern clinics, the diagnosis and successful treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is based on the use of kinesiotherapy. With the help of this healing technique, patients who perform physical exercises on special exercise machines to heal significantly improve their health.

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in women and men is an essential method

High quality and stable results in the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine can only be achieved with an integrated approach to the problem. The effectiveness of recovery is highly dependent on the mood of the patient, who needs to completely review their lifestyle, diet, sleep and wakefulness.

Self-treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is by no means possible in women and men, as the underlying symptoms of the disease may indicate the development of a completely different disease. Medications chosen without the doctor's knowledge can make the situation worse. Even the elemental intake of analgesics does not always bring the expected effect, again proving the need for prior consultation with a specialist.

Elimination of pain exacerbation

The disease often manifests itself as a syndrome of stinging, aching, and pulling pain. The main task of your doctor is to alleviate your suffering, so the experts will prescribe:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs;
• Vitamins;
• Analgesics;
• Chondroprotectors.

The last category of drugs is aimed at the restoration of cartilage structures, which is especially important in the advanced stage of the disease. In addition, patients are prescribed medications to relieve muscle cramps and improve blood flow to the body.

Therapeutic gymnastic exercises

Physiotherapists know how to get rid of cervical osteochondrosis in the most affordable way. Gymnastics is one of the most effective ways to treat osteochondrosis, which can even be used at home. The intensity of the practice does not play a role in this case. The regularity of moderate physical activity will help you achieve the result. Here is the effect of training:

1. Strengthening the muscles of the neck, which are responsible for supporting weakened vertebrae.
2. Stimulation and normalization of the body's blood supply, which is especially important for the cerebral cortex.
3. Increasing overall tone, recharging energy, restoring human productivity and ability to work.

Gymnastics classes are allowed on a daily basis. The series of exercises includes all kinds of head rotations and tilting. With proper physical fitness, the level of difficulty increases and hand movements are related to work. The advantage of therapeutic gymnastic elements is that they can even be used in the workplace. But keep in mind that they can only be performed after the acute pain syndrome has resolved.

As an additional load, doctors recommend that patients visit the pelvis, as swimming relieves spinal stress and relieves intervertebral disc tension. It is visible and can be used with light dumbbells to strengthen the shoulder belt.

Physiotherapy

There are several physiotherapy methods:

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

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

Massage

Massage therapy for cervical osteochondrosis of the spine is widespread worldwide. However, this method should be used with extreme caution, as rough and inappropriate exposure to injured parts of the neck can lead to worsening of the condition. Consult your doctor before making an appointment with a masseuse.

Due to the effect of the hands on the sore area, muscle tone decreases, leading to the relief of painful cramps. It also improves blood circulation, restores clarity of thought and the overall well-being of the patient.

Surgery

The last stage of the disease leads to the development of a severe intervertebral hernia and narrowing of the lumen of the spine. Treatment of the patient in this case may require surgery. The surgeon will decide if surgery is needed. It also defines the complex of preparatory measures, the period of post-operative recovery and rehabilitation.

Most surgical procedures involve the removal of the resulting hernias as well as the replacement of the damaged vertebrae.

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in the clinic

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

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is performed according to an individually developed program. The therapeutic effect applies not only to a specific part of the spine but also to the internal organs. The process of drug-free and non-surgical treatment is cumbersome, but we provide comprehensive support to patients, helping them to become more determined and rethink their approach to their own illness.

The healing process is made up of:

1. Workouts in the rehabilitation room at least 2-3 times a week.
2. Parterre physiotherapy.
3. Thermotherapy according to individual indications.
4. Pain relief with ice massage.
5. Therapeutic / restorative massage.
6. Adaptive exercises for home work.
7. Microanatomical examination of ultrasound to monitor recovery.
8. Personal consultations with the specialists of the physiotherapy clinic.

Prevention of osteochondrosis

The treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in the context of modern medicine involves a number of effective methods. But it is much better not to allow this problem to appear at all than to deal with eliminating it. There are a number of preventive measures to minimize the risk of developing and developing a dangerous disease:

1. Take a hot shower for 10 minutes a day. Regular visits to the baths / saunas are also recommended. Please note that these recommendations are only for those who do not have a cardiovascular health problem.
2. Go swimming and take a regular walk in the fresh air at a leisurely pace. Physical inactivity is one of the leading causes of musculoskeletal disorders.
3. Reject excessive physical effort at the limit of human abilities. This is especially true if you work out in gyms. Critical axial loads on the spine lead to protrusion.
4. Try to avoid back stabbing, especially if you are over 30 years old.
5. Review your diet. Try to exclude sweets, flour, moderate salt and sugar intake. Reducing the caloric content of foods allows you to avoid being overweight, which puts extra strain on the spine.
6. If you work in an office and spend a lot of time in front of a computer, be sure to buy a special lumbar and neck chair. Try to do basic warm-up exercises every 60 minutes.
7. In case of pain after waking up, consider buying an orthopedic mattress and pillow. If possible, choose a flat bed with a hard surface.
8. To avoid degenerative and dystrophic changes in the cervical spine, see a professional massage therapist at least 2-3 times a year. Neck and collar massage is one of the most effective preventative measures.
9. Women should keep walking in high heels to a minimum as this will interfere with the natural position of the spine. For diagnosed flat feet, it is recommended to purchase special shoes or insoles, as orthopedic products correct the position of the foot and relieve unnecessary strain on the spine.

Also:

• you should visit the spa regularly
• you should stop bodybuilding, which may help your neck to stand out
• gentle exercise can be a good prevention of illness

Result

Treatment of osteochondrosis is performed under the strict supervision of highly trained professionals in a professional clinic. Physicians take an integrated approach to working with patients and even deal with advanced stages of the disease. If you notice symptoms of osteochondrosis, you do not have to endure, self-medicate, and delay your visit to the doctor. Start your journey to a healthy, happy life!