You know that feeling of tension in your neck?It happens that when you are working, you automatically pull your head from side to side because your muscles are "numb".Or you find yourself massaging your neck while reading a book.Cervical osteochondrosis may be underlying these symptoms.
What is cervical osteochondrosis?
Cervical osteochondrosis is a disease of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue of the cervical spine.It is characterized by changes in the cartilage structure of the intervertebral disc and the development of pathological processes in the surrounding tissue.
Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis
The disease has a characteristic set of symptoms:
- Complaints of pain (acute and dull), which may be in the neck, back of the head, arms, and shoulder blades.This is due to compression of the nerve roots in the corresponding cervical segments.
- Weakness and numbness in the neck and arm muscles.
- You may feel stiff and dizzy when you move your neck.
- Increased fatigue and decreased performance may occur.
- Hearing and visual impairment are less common (in advanced disease).
The above symptoms and complaints may be combined.This depends on the specific site and extent of the pathological process.
Why does cervical osteochondrosis occur?
The causes of cervical osteochondrosis are multifactorial.The most common reasons are:
- Age-related changes in cartilage tissue are a normal aging process.
- Inherited syndromes of connective tissue development disorders: Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, joint hypermobility syndrome.
- Low physical activity and sedentary lifestyle.
- Poor posture can overload corresponding parts of the spine.
- The corresponding parts of the spine have been injured.
Incorrect stereotyped postures and habits have a great impact on the development of the disease.This condition is increasingly common due to frequent use of electronics and long hours working in front of the computer, where the neck tilts forward and downward.If you read for a long time, sleep in an incorrect position - inappropriate pillows, mattresses, sleeping on your stomach.Due to the influence of these factors, the neck muscles are in a constant state of tension.
How is cervical osteochondrosis treated?
To effectively treat cervical osteochondrosis, a complex treatment approach is required, including:
- Medication (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, B vitamin complex, magnesium, etc.).Medications can reduce pain and inflammation and reduce muscle tone.
- Therapeutic exercise.Therapeutic exercise and massage can improve circulation and flood affected cells with oxygen and nutrients.Thanks to this, the pathological process stops and pain decreases.
- Physiotherapy procedures and massage.Physical therapy can be done in a medical facility or at home.For these purposes, almost all physical therapy methods are used: electric current, laser, ultrasound, magnetic radiation, shock wave therapy.The choice of method depends on the stage of the disease and the presence of contraindications.
It is recommended to establish the correct head and neck positioning while working, as well as the correct organization of the sleeping area.It may be worth replacing your pillow with an orthopedic pillow.
Prevention of cervical osteochondrosis
If you follow the following preventive rules, you can not only prevent the development of cervical osteochondrosis, but also stop the progression of the disease:
- Engage in regular moderate physical activity and/or physical therapy.
- Eat a healthy diet and get enough water, calcium, magnesium and protein.
- Perform cervical spine exercises at least every two hours when you sit for long periods of time at work.
cervical spine gymnastics
Perform exercises slowly during remission and do not make sudden movements.In the starting position, inhale and exhale as you bend and turn your head.Hold each pose as if stretching your neck muscles.
- Starting position: Sit up straight and look straight ahead.
- Tilt your head forward and return to the starting position.Tilt your head back and return to the starting position.
- Tilt your head to the right, returning to the starting position.Tilt your head to the left and return to the starting position.
- Turn your head to the right, then forward.Turn your head to the left, then forward.
If your fitness allows, you can use a more complex version of gymnastics - the same moves, but with reverse arm resistance.Press your head forward and down, and hold it with your hands to prevent it from tilting forward and down.Perform the exercise for 5-15 seconds depending on your strength.Repeat the exercise in all directions indicated.
Important: Gymnastics should not cause pain!
If obvious symptoms of disease appear, it is necessary to contact a specialist for prompt diagnosis, determine the stage of the disease and select an individualized treatment strategy.