Dull pain in the neck, which increases with movement, headache, discomfort - these are the main symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis. This insidious disease can cause a person a lot of inconvenience, so do not hesitate to consult a doctor.
Disease development
Cervical osteochondrosis is classified as a chronic disease. As a rule, the disease develops over a long period, due to which changes occur in tissues and organs.
The causes of the disease can be heavy physical exertion, monotonous movements associated with working conditions, prolonged stay in an uncomfortable position. Also, the appearance of cervical osteochondrosis can cause low physical activity, which worsens the process of blood circulation in the tissues adjacent to the spine and intervertebral discs. As a result, the musculoskeletal system becomes weak. However, one of the most common causes of the disease is the so-called mechanical factor (trauma, vibration, noise, bruising).
Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis
The main symptoms of osteochondrosis of the neck are:
- headache, which may worsen during movement;
- decreased visual acuity;
- shooting pain in the eyes;
- increased pressure (occurs due to compression of blood vessels in the cervical region);
- chest pain, which may feel like angina pain;
- numbness of the hands;
- dizziness.
If any of these symptoms appear, you should see a doctor.
Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis
Self-treatment of osteochondrosis is categorically excluded. After all, if painkillers can relieve pain, then the inflammatory process is unlikely. In order for the situation not to worsen, it is better to follow all the doctor's prescriptions.
Experts say that it is impossible to completely cure cervical osteochondrosis, but at the same time it is possible to alleviate the symptoms, improve the general condition and prevent the occurrence of exacerbations. For these purposes, a complex treatment is best suited, which includes the use of hodropprotectors (helps restore the cartilage of the discs), vasodilators (activates blood circulation in the spine).
Patients with osteochondrosis are often prescribed a massage course. It is recommended to take the course twice a year, 10 sessions at a time. This method of treatment can improve blood circulation and reduce pain.
Alternative medicines are also used to treat osteochondrosis, in particular, they resort to acupuncture and manual therapy. In some cases, electrophoresis and therapeutic exercise classes are also prescribed.
Prevention of cervical osteochondrosis
The best prevention of osteochondrosis is exercise. You can do yoga, fitness, swimming, and other activities regularly, or you can do simple exercises that will be good for your neck and spine.
For example, you can do head tilts: while exhaling, gently tilt your head forward, while inhaling - back. Do three tilts in each direction. After that, do the same by tilting your head left and right. Try to keep the movements fluid.
Additionally, try doing the following: Clasp your palms above your head, while pulling your elbows out to the sides. Then, with all your strength, press your palms together, gradually relaxing your hands. Repeat 3 times.
You can finish light gymnastics with self-massage, rubbing your neck with circular movements of your hands. Remember that the main thing is not to cure the disease, but to prevent its occurrence. We wish you not to get sick and to stay beautiful and happy longer!