Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis home treatment

1 October 2020

why osteochondrosis of the cervix occurs

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 the computer).

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

Causes of cervical osteochondrosis

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

No less important cause of the appearance and worsening of cervical and vertebral osteochondrosis is the human mental factor - these are stresses, fears, frequent or persistent anxieties, a state of depression, which are always accompanied by stressinternal that arises.

Our spine, including part of the cervix, consists of 24 vertebrae and intervertebral discs (cartilage), and to keep the whole structure strong and sturdy, the spine is connected to many muscles and ligamentsthat 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, thanks to which amortization occurs.

When these discs or vertebrae are damaged (change in structure due to metabolic disorders), osteochondrosis occurs, which bears the name of the affected area: cervical osteochondrosis, chest and lumbar.

With cervical osteochondrosis, the nerve roots extending from the spinal cord are compressed and the vessels are compressed, which disrupts blood flow. because, within tense muscles, blood is difficult to move. Of course, the blood supply to the brain is also interrupted, as a result of which oxygen starvation occurs.

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

Also, the causes of cervical osteochondrosis can be:

intervertebral disc injuries;
weight lifting;
incorrect behavior;
hypothermia, drafts;
incorrectly performed procedures, for example, massage, and others.
overeating, overweight - excessive stress on the back;
use of spicy, salty exacerbates osteochondrosis;
congenital or acquired scoliosis, kyphosis, lordosis;
Prolonged exposure to vibration - working with construction machinery, driving, etc.
uncomfortable bed, feather beds, large pillows, therefore, the position of the neck in sleep is wrong;
hereditary predisposition;
loads on the spine, not only strong but, for example, monotonous;
pathology of the musculoskeletal system;
asymmetry of the temporomandibular joint, its damage, chewing habits, malocclusion;
uncomfortable tight bra straps, tight collar;
work with vigorous movements of the same type (especially when half-bending forward): saw that splits firewood, gardening with a shovel, with a hoe, washing on the board, vacuuming and the like.

Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis

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

Radicular syndrome.Radicular syndrome occurs when the nerve roots in the cervical region are compressed (compressed nerve). It is also called the cervical radicle. The pain that occurs in the neck is transmitted down and can go down to the shoulder and even to the outside of the forearm to the fingers. Among the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, in some cases, there is a tingling sensation in the forearm, hand or fingers, pastiness, the effect of goose bumps.
Reflective irritability syndromes. In the case of reflex-reflex syndrome, symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis may include acute burning pain in the neck or neck, which occurs when moving after a static position (with sharp turns of the head when sneezing). , after sleep). The pain may radiate to the shoulder and chest.

Cardiac syndrome. The symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in this syndrome mainly coincide with the symptoms of angina pectoris. In this case, it is very important not to make a mistake in the diagnosis. With 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 a sharp turn of the head. There is often the appearance of tachycardia and extrasystoles against the background of a complete absence of signs of circulatory disorders.

vertebral artery syndrome.In this case, cervical osteochondrosis is accompanied by a symptom such as a throbbing or burning headache, which most often affects the superciliary region, the back of the head, the temple, the darkness. The pain, as a rule, practically does not stop, and only in some cases has a paroxysmal character. Increased pain occurs with movement or after prolonged stay in an uncomfortable position.

There is a possibility of hearing and vision impairment (decreased hearing and visual 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 the most characteristic symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine:

persistent pain in the neck, spreading to the shoulder girdle, ear and eye area, the back of the head and does not stop even at night;

pain in hands, forearm, shoulder, worsening even with a light load;

weakening of muscle strength and reduced sensitivity of the hands, arms, fingers, as well as difficulty in their movements;

neck pain when turning and tilting the head;

neck muscle tension, feeling of stretching back in the morning;

burning, numbness, tingling in the feet or hands;

extensive headache with primary localization in the occiput;

darkening of the eyes, tinnitus, numbness of the tongue, dizziness, with a sharp turn of the head - fainting,

reduces visual acuity and hearing;

proliferation of connective tissue in the cervical spine;

pain in the heart region.

Remedies for cervical osteochondrosis

Cervical osteochondrosis is a complex disease that requires long-term, systematic and gradual treatment. The therapy aims to eliminate pain and fight the inflammatory process in the affected area.

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

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

Using topical oils and gels containing irritants or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is ineffective. The substance of the medicine that is part of their composition is unlikely to reach the affected area due to the obstruction of the skin, subcutaneous tissue and muscle. However, there is a sense in using these external agents, since when they are rubbed into the skin, a neck massage is performed.

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

Traditional methods of treating cervical osteochondrosis

Folk remedies can not be conclusively written - cervical osteochondrosis with its symptoms can be treated at home with essential oils, herbs, fats, roots and poisons. They combine with alcohols, iodine and turpentine and provide highly effective anti-inflammatory and warming agents for both external and internal use.

Phytotherapy of cervical osteochondrosis

Celery medicine. Grind the celery root on a fine grater, squeeze the juice. Take celery juice for cervical osteochondrosis, symptoms and home treatment three times a day for one tablespoon before meals.

Less concentrated version of the medicine - for 1 tablespoon of juice 100 ml of boiling water, leave for a few 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 - add 3 grams of root 0. 5 liters of boiling water, leave for a few hours until completely cooled and drink 20 ml before each meal.

The medicine for laurel leaves. In an enamel saucepan, pour 12 grams of bay leaves with 300 ml of cold water, boil for five minutes. Let it bake 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 for cervical osteochondrosis. Grind and mix 100 grams of chamomile, parsley, stalk and oregano, add 100 grams of nettle leaves and 200 grams of burdock root. Brew in a thermos, pouring 1. 5 liters of boiling water. Leave for three days. Drink the strained solution in a tablespoon twice a day - morning and evening. Store in a cool, dark place.

Friction

Red pepper medicine. Finely chop two hot red chili, 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 on the affected area with gentle movements twice a day. It is not necessary to take many funds at once, as many can be burned. The effect of the product is warming, blood circulation is improved.

Based on butter.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 film formed on the surface of the mixture and rub it on the skin in the area of osteochondrosis of the cervix during the massage. Store the prepared mixture for no more than 3 days.

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

Therapeutic exercises for osteochondrosis of the cervix

These exercises will help with existing osteochondrosis of the cervical spine as well as prophylaxis. Gymnastics for cervical osteochondrosis for preventive purposes can be performed in the evening at home, but it is better to use short breaks at work for this (this is a recommendation for those who have a sedentary job). Gymnastics with osteochondrosis of the cervix does not require much time, but gives a positive result, and 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 repetitions 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 the starting position and make the same left turn. Repeat 5 times in each direction.

Exercise 3.Place the palm on the forehead and press the head on it, while the palm should remain in the same place, ie resist the pressure. During the pressure with your head, you need to tense the neck muscles. Slowly count to 5 for yourself and relax. Repeat 3 times.

Exercise 4.Exercise is similar to Exercise 3, only the palms (or both palms) should be placed on the back of the head and it is with them to press on the palm. The tension should be maintained, counting by itself up to 5. Repeat 3 times.

Exercise 5.Exercise is similar to Exercise 3, but in this case, place your right palm on the right temple and press your head against the palm. The tension should be maintained, counting by itself up to 5. Repeat 3 times. Then do the same, 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 down, pressing your chin to your chest. Repeat 5 times.

Exercise 7.Sitting on your feet, lower your head and make slow turns of 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 head rotations without arm support, especially in those moments when the neck is tense and sore.

Self-massage for cervical osteochondrosis

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

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

Diet for cervical osteochondrosis

With osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, doctors advise eating in small portions at least 5 times a day. Eat cooked or steamed foods. Drink at least 1. 5 liters of water a day. Seasonal salads with olive oil. Avoid cigarettes and alcoholic beverages.

Include the following products in the menu:

lean meats: beef, rabbit, chicken;

vegetables and fruits: cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, onions, peppers, beets, cabbage, broccoli, celery, eggplant, avocado, spinach, cabbage;

dairy products: cheese, cottage cheese, milk;

seafood: fish, lobster, oysters, crab;

dishes with gelatin: jelly, favorite meat, aspic from fish;

nuts and seeds: almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds;

mushrooms, eggs, cereals.

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

Prevention of cervical osteochondrosis

As usual, proper prophylaxis will help prevent cervical osteochondrosis of the cervix, but, of course, all physical exercise should be used regularly, otherwise there will be little benefit from "periodic" exercise.

Remains to remember simple rules:

regularly engage in sports, especially swimming, water gymnastics, stretching gymnastics and flexibility of the vertebrae is also suitable to prevent 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 abstain from sugar, flour, smoked, spicy;

choose a good orthopedic mattress and pillow that is ideal for the neck, supporting the head in the right anatomical position during sleep (yes, your favorite down pillows will not disappear with spinal problems! )

During sedentary work, at least several times a day, perform a special set of therapeutic exercises.