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 visit a doctor.
Development of the disease
Cervical osteochondrosis is classified as a chronic disease. As a rule, the disease develops for a long time, as a result of which changes in tissues and organs occur.
The causes of the disease can be severe physical exertion, monotonous movements associated with working conditions, prolonged stay in an uncomfortable position. In addition, the onset of cervical osteochondrosis can provoke 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).
Cervical osteochondrosis symptoms
The main symptoms of osteochondrosis of the neck are as follows:
- headache, which can get worse during movement;
- decreased visual acuity;
- shooting pain in the eyes;
- increased pressure (occurs due to squeezing of blood vessels in the cervical region);
- chest pain, which may resemble the pain of angina pectoris;
- numbness of the hand;
- 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 painkillers can relieve pain, the inflammatory process is unlikely. In order for the situation not to worsen, it is best to adhere to all the prescriptions of the doctor.
Experts say that it is impossible to completely cure cervical osteochondrosis, but at the same time it is possible to relieve symptoms, improve the general condition and prevent the occurrence of exacerbations. For these purposes, complex treatment is more suitable, which includes the use of hodroprotectors (help restore the cartilage of the discs), vasodilators (activate 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 medicine is also used to treat osteochondrosis, in particular they resort to acupuncture and manual therapy. In some cases, electrophoresis and courses of therapeutic exercises are also prescribed.
Prevention of cervical osteochondrosis
The best prevention of osteochondrosis is exercise. You can regularly engage in 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: while exhaling, gently tilt your head forward, while inhaling - back. Do three tilts in each direction. After that, do the same, tilting your head left and right. Try to keep the movements fluid.
Also, try to do the following: join your palms over your head, pulling your elbows to the sides. Then, with all your strength, press your palms against each other, gradually relaxing your hands. Repeat 3 times.
You can finish light gymnastics with self-massage, rubbing the neck with circular movements of the 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 for longer!