Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine (Osteochondrosis) is a degenerative-dystrophic change of the intervertebral discs, as a result of which the discs themselves, the vertebrae and joints of the cervical spine are damaged, and a decrease in the height of the intervertebral discs is observed.
The disease progresses if left untreated and can lead to headaches, poor circulation and even a hernia.
Many people know firsthand how to treat osteochondrosis of the cervical spine - the disease is quite common.Women are particularly susceptible to it because, due to their anatomical structure, their shoulder girdle is not as strong as men's.
Features of cervical osteochondrosis
The neck is a very mobile part of the body that is subjected to significant stress (constantly holding the head).Moreover, the size of the vertebrae here is much smaller than in other parts of the spine.The large blood vessels that supply the brain pass through the neck, so poor circulation due to displacement of the vertebral structures and damage to the lumen of the blood vessels can lead to dizziness and headaches.In addition, there are many nerve endings, the violation of which gives strong painful sensations.
Methods of treatment of cervical osteochondrosis
How to treat osteochondrosis of the cervical spine?The main methods are the use of drugs, physical therapy, physiotherapy and massage.Each method is used in different stages of the disease, in combination with the others or in isolation.
The treatment of the disease is most actively carried out with the help of drug therapy, which aims to relieve inflammation and spasm, relieve pain, restore blood microcirculation and improve cerebral circulation.The main drugs used to relieve muscle spasms and treat the inflammatory process are non-steroidal muscle relaxants.Vasodilators are used to improve blood circulation.B vitamins are also prescribed, which improve metabolic processes and participate in the synthesis of neurotransmitters.
Massage is prescribed in the absence of aggravation of the disease, or if the state of health improves somewhat after the use of drugs.
Physiotherapy is also used - mainly amplipulse therapy and electrophoresis with novocaine in the neck region.
Exercise therapy and gymnastics are prescribed both in the acute stage, in the form of static exercises, and after the symptoms of the disease have subsided in order to strengthen the muscles and restore the mobility of the cervical spine.
Is it possible to treat cervical osteochondrosis at home?Of course, yes, but it is better to combine home remedies with medicines prescribed by a doctor.Self-treatment includes lying on special applicators, warming rubs and compresses (with iodine, alcohol, mustard), and warm herbal baths.