Dull neck pain, which increases with movement, headaches, 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 visit 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 in tissues and organs occur.
The causes of the disease can be strong physical exertion, monotonous movements associated with working conditions, prolonged stay in an uncomfortable position. In addition, the occurrence 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 as follows:
- headache, which may get worse during movement;
- decreased visual acuity;
- throbbing pain in the eyes;
- increased pressure (occurs due to compression of blood vessels in the cervical region);
- chest pain, which may resemble the pain of angina pectoris;
- numbness in the hands;
- dizziness.
If any of these symptoms appear, you should see a doctor.
Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis
Self-treatment for osteochondrosis is categorically excluded. After all, if analgesics can relieve pain, the inflammatory process is unlikely. So that the situation does not worsen, it is better to adhere to 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 relieve the symptoms, improve the general condition and prevent the occurrence of exacerbations. For these purposes, complex treatment is more indicated, which includes the use of hydroprotectants (they help restore the cartilage of the discs), vasodilators (activate blood circulation in the spine).
Patients with osteochondrosis are usually given a massage course. The course is recommended to be taken twice a year, 10 sessions at a time. This treatment method can improve blood circulation and reduce pain.
Alternative medicine is also used to treat osteochondrosis, in particular, they resort to acupuncture and manual therapy. In some cases, electrophoresis and therapeutic exercise courses are also prescribed.
Prevention of cervical osteochondrosis
The best prevention of osteochondrosis is exercise. You can regularly practice yoga, fitness, swimming and other activities, or you can do simple exercises that will be good for your neck and spine.
For example, you can tilt your head: as you exhale, gently tilt your head forward, while inhaling - backward. Make three slopes in each direction. After that, do the same, tilting your head to the left and to the right. Try to keep the movements smooth.
Also, try the following: bring your palms together 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 motions of your hands. Remember that the main thing is not to cure the disease, but to prevent its occurrence. We wish you don't get sick and stay beautiful and happy for longer!