Cervical osteochondrosis is a common phenomenon,
since the cervical spine is very mobile and its cartilage is subject to intensive use with a large range of motion.Cervical osteochondrosis, the symptoms and treatment of which are discussed in this article, is a pathology that is characterized by the development of dystrophic disorders in the intervertebral discs of the cervical spine.The latter are “responsible” for its flexibility and mobility.If you do not seek medical help in a timely manner, the process will develop further and will lead to the appearance of a vertebral hernia, as well as changes in the vertebrae themselves.
A course of treatment for cervical osteochondrosis can be completed in the clinic.Highly qualified neurologists and orthopedic traumatologists who have extensive experience in this area.They will develop an individual treatment plan that is sure to be successful.
Reasons
The factors leading to the development of cervical osteochondrosis are very diverse.They include the following:
- bruises and fractures of the spine;
- static and dynamic overloads of the spine;
- various postural disorders;
- improper distribution of the load on the spine due to pathologies of the feet (s) and wearing uncomfortable shoes;
- vertebral instability;
- age-related changes in the structure of intervertebral cartilage;
- sedentary lifestyle;
- excessive physical activity.
Clinical manifestations
First of all, the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis are expressed in aching pain, localized in the neck and radiating to the upper limbs and shoulders.Their “faithful companions” are the following clinical manifestations:
- headaches;
- increased pain when trying to turn or tilt your head;
- muscle spasms;
- restriction of physical activity.
If compression of the nerve roots is observed, the following symptoms can be added to the above:
- shooting, cutting pain in the neck;
- feeling of weakness in the arm or hands;
- numbness of the skin of the upper extremities;
- cervical scoliosis, curvature in the cervical spine;
- decreased reflexes.
With the development of vertebral artery syndrome, which can occur as a reaction to irritation of its sympathetic plexus, the following symptoms are observed:
- dizziness;
- throbbing, burning headache;
- floaters and colored spots before the eyes.
Diagnostics
A comprehensive diagnostic test in the clinic includes the following:
- examination by a specialist, a neurologist, who will conduct a series of tests and make a preliminary diagnosis;
- instrumental examination (x-ray, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography), which allows you to clarify the data obtained during the examination, accurately determine the level of damage, identify the features of the pathology and its consequences for the spine.
Treatment
The clinic uses modern gentle methods that allow not only to get rid of pain, but also to relieve inflammation, eliminate compression of the nerve roots, and also stop the further development of destructive processes in the intervertebral cartilage and vertebrae.
A conservative treatment plan is developed by our specialists, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient.Typically it includes the following:
- drug treatment;
- physical therapy;
- physiotherapy;
- massage;
- manual therapy;
- spinal traction.
If the pain effect is pronounced, the patient may be offered a therapeutic blockade.This minimally invasive procedure allows you to quickly relieve pain by administering the drug by injection directly into the affected area.The pain relief effect can last up to one year, while inflammatory processes are minimized, muscle spasms and swelling are relieved.