Cervical osteochondrosis is a common phenomenon,
because the cervical spine is very mobile and its cartilage is subjected to intensive use with a large range of movement.Cervical osteochondrosis, the symptoms and treatment of which are discussed in this article, is a pathology characterized by the development of dystrophic disorders of the intervertebral discs of the cervical spine.The latter are “responsible” for its flexibility and mobility.If you do not consult a doctor in time, the process will develop further and lead to the appearance of a spinal hernia, as well as changes in the vertebrae themselves.
Treatment for cervical osteochondrosis can be completed in the clinic.Highly qualified orthopedic neurologists and traumatologists with extensive experience in this field.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;
- poor distribution of the load on the spine due to pathologies of the foot(s) and wearing uncomfortable shoes;
- spinal 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 by painful 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 the head;
- muscle spasms;
- restriction of physical activity.
If nerve root compression is observed, the following symptoms may be added to the above:
- stabbing, cutting pain in neck;
- feeling of weakness in the arm or hands;
- numbness of the skin of the upper limbs;
- cervical scoliosis, curvature of the cervical spine;
- decrease in reflexes.
With the development of vertebral artery syndrome, which can occur in reaction to irritation of its sympathetic plexus, the following symptoms are observed:
- dizziness;
- throbbing, burning headache;
- floaters and colored spots in front of the eyes.
Diagnosis
A comprehensive in-clinic diagnostic test includes the following:
- examination by a specialist, a neurologist, who will carry out 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 relieve pain, but also to relieve inflammation, eliminate compression of nerve roots and 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;
- physiotherapy;
- physiotherapy;
- massage;
- manual therapy;
- spinal traction.
If the painful effect is pronounced, therapeutic blockade may be offered to the patient.This minimally invasive procedure provides rapid pain relief by administering the medication by injection directly into the affected area.The analgesic effect can last up to a year, while inflammatory processes are minimized, muscle spasms and swelling are relieved.