One of the most vulnerable parts of the spine is the cervical spine. The reason for this phenomenon is a weak muscle corset and the close location of the vertebrae. Therefore, this zone is most susceptible to various deformations and damage, as a result of which the blood supply to the brain is disturbed and motor activity decreases. Preliminary diagnosis of cervical osteochondrosis is the study and analysis of the clinical manifestations of pathology. To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor uses instrumental methods of research.
general information
In the cervical region eight nerve roots and seven vertebrae. The first nerve is located between the beginning of the skull and the first vertebra, the second - between the first and second and so on. Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is a rather serious disease, which is accompanied not only by severe pain syndrome, but also by pathological conditions such as:
- dizziness;
- vomiting
- migraine;
- angina pectoris;
- nausea.
With cervical osteochondrosis, intervertebral discs are destroyed , as a result of arteries, blood vessels and nerve roots in the neck are compressed. The reason is degenerative processes. Basically, this ailment affects people over 35 years old. The disease provokes hypothermia, neck injuries and a sedentary lifestyle. Among the main signs are pain in the chest and cervical region, weakness, migraine, dizziness. With osteochondrosis, the first seven vertebrae of the cervical spine suffer. Timely detection of the disease is especially important, since subsequent therapy depends on it.
The main stages in the diagnosis of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine are:
- History taking.
- Inspection
- Roentgenography. In the pictures you can see bone growths, narrowing of the intervertebral openings and cracks.
- Doppler ultrasound of the vertebral and carotid arteries in order to detect a malfunction in the blood supply to the spinal cord and brain, as well as vascular spasm.
- Duplex scanning of the vessels of the head.
- Audiography - to determine hearing impairment.
- MRI and CT of the cervical and head in order to detect the prevalence and localization of the process, compression of blood vessels and spinal cord, displacement of the intervertebral discs.
- Ultrasound
- Blood tests.
If the disease has appeared recently, then it can only be detected by chance during an MRI. Diagnosis of cervical osteochondrosis can be difficult, as its symptoms are similar to pulmonary and cardiac abnormalities. Therefore, often patients first of all seek the help of a therapist or cardiologist, and only then, if the treatment is ineffective, a neurologist. If a disease is detected at a late stage, treatment will be aimed at eliminating signs of pathology. The disease most often affects the weaker sex from the age of thirty-five years. Due to the weakness of the muscle corset and thinner bone tissue, degenerative processes in the fair sex develop faster and are more intense. Methods for diagnosing cervical osteochondrosis in women do not differ from those in men, adolescents and children, these are:
- history taking;
- inspection;
- X-ray examination;
- CT
- MRI and others.
Medical history and patient examination
During the conversation, the doctor:
- listens to complaints;
- reveals symptoms of the disease;
- takes an interest in previously used treatment methods and their effectiveness;
- learns about bad habits, working conditions, hereditary factor, existing diseases.
When examining the patient, the doctor assesses the stiffness of the movements, the position of the neck relative to the body. Examines the skin for external visible changes. Palpates a neck for identification of consolidations. Sensitivity to pain is checked with a special needle, which makes a slight tingling of the cervical spine. The next stage in the diagnosis of cervical osteochondrosis is instrumental research methods.
X-ray of the cervical spine
Diagnosis of osteochondrosis, as well as sprains or bruises, can be done using radiography. This method is simple to implement, accessible and informative. The equipment for the study is available in any medical institution. The doctor recommends it in the following conditions:
- neck damage;
- numbness in the hands;
- headaches of unknown origin;
- discomfort and discomfort when turning the head;
- and etc.
Among the contraindications are:
- pregnancy;
- body weight over 120 kg - image quality suffers.
Special preparation for the procedure is not required, the patient takes off all jewelry, metal objects and strips to the waist. For the diagnosis of cervical osteochondrosis, an x-ray is done with functional tests. Using a conventional X-ray, the mobility of the vertebrae and their displacement are revealed. If they are found, the doctor first diagnoses osteochondrosis. To confirm it, X-rays with functional tests are performed, during which the degree of damage and displacement of the vertebrae is evaluated, and in addition, they determine how much the anterior wall of the vertebral section is deformed. During the procedure, the individual takes different body positions for greater clarity and information content of the pictures. Based on the change in height of the anterior spine compared with the posterior, which is quite clearly seen in the pictures, the radiologist prepares a conclusion about the severity and nature of the pathology. Next, the neurologist makes a final diagnosis and selects a course of therapy.
Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography
MRI in the diagnosis of cervical osteochondrosis is considered one of the informative methods. With its help reveal:
- the disease itself and the degree of its development;
- causes of pain;
- evaluate the deformation and load on the intervertebral discs;
- hernia, she is a frequent companion of this anomaly.
In addition, MRI makes it possible to distinguish between the structure of the pulp nucleus. The duration of the study is about thirty minutes. Contraindications to this procedure:
- pregnancy;
- claustrophobia;
- the presence of a pacemaker or insulin pump in an individual.
The advantage of this type of research is:
- lack of exposure;
- the ability to identify various changes in the structure of the spinal column and discs.
The only drawback is its high cost.
The next diagnostic method for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is CT. During the procedure, the person is in the tomograph, which can be either open or closed, the scanner moves around the patient’s body and removes it. Computed tomography can be done using a contrast agent.
The duration of the manipulation is about ten minutes, so the exposure is minimal. The procedure is contraindicated:
- pregnant and lactating women;
- to children. Before deciding on the appointment of CT to the younger generation, the doctor assesses the risk and benefit;
- with oncopathology.
Repeated CT can be performed no earlier than a year later.
Which of the two ways to use in the diagnosis of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, the doctor decides individually for each patient. CT and MRI are two high-precision methods for taking high-resolution images.
Ultrasound examination of the cervical spine
The main objective of this type of research is to examine and analyze the condition of the spinal canal, intervertebral discs and nerves of the spinal cord. Special preparation for the procedure is not required. During it, a person takes a lying and sitting position. In addition, if osteochondrosis, injury, hernia or instability of the motor segments is suspected, a study is conducted with functional tests - flexion and extensor (the patient flexes and extends the neck as much as possible). This allows a better view of the displacement of the vertebrae. In adult individuals, for the detection of cervical osteochondrosis, ultrasound diagnosis is considered a particularly effective method. Ultrasound has several advantages:
- No exposure.
- The information content of the results.
- Harmless to children and expectant mothers.
- You can perform the procedure repeatedly.
- Low cost of research.
- Accessibility - is in any medical institution.
Diagnosis of cervical osteochondrosis
In neurology, the presence of the following syndromes is important for the diagnosis of this pathology:
- Koreshkovogo - manifested by intense pain under the scapula, in the neck, larynx, clavicle. When moving, it intensifies. In addition, the work of the masticatory muscles is disrupted, hiccups, numbness of the tongue, paralysis and paresis, violation of the sensitivity of the hands appear.
- Vertebral artery - a whole complex of symptoms is observed: pressure surges, nausea, headache, tinnitus, weakness, depression, loss of consciousness during sharp turns of the head, dizziness.
- Cardiac - shortness of breath appears, pain in the heart, tachycardia.
- Vertebral - neck mobility is impaired, pain in the cervical region is present.
To clarify the diagnosis, differential diagnosis of cervical osteochondrosis in women, men and the younger generation is carried out. It is necessary to identify and exclude pathological conditions such as:
- oncology;
- angina pectoris;
- gastric ulcer;
- old injuries and fractures;
- disturbances in the work of nerve endings;
- and others.
For these purposes, doctors recommend the following types of studies:
- Ultrasound of the chest and heart;
- ECG;
- Doppler ultrasound;
- endoscopy of the stomach;
- duplex scanning of blood vessels;
- blood test for heart markers.
To diagnose cervical osteochondrosis, it is important to know some features of the pain syndrome in the left side of the chest to determine if the heart hurts or is it a symptom of osteochondrosis:
- Pain in the heart appears during any exertion, such as walking or stress. In addition, it is accompanied by a frequent pulse and a change in complexion. It turns red or pale. With cervical osteochondrosis, shortness of breath and some stiffness in the limbs form.
- With heart problems, the individual has difficulty breathing and a feeling of sternum compression. With osteochondrosis - the pain intensifies with each breath and heart medication does not help.
- With cardiovascular anomalies, the pain is short-term and lasts no more than two minutes, and with cervical osteochondrosis - up to two or more days.
- Pain in heart failure is felt on the left side of the chest, occiput, neck, shoulders and arm. With osteochondrosis, it is felt in all parts of the spine.
Signs of osteochondrosis
For the timely diagnosis of cervical osteochondrosis, the symptoms listed below are an occasion for an immediate visit to the doctor:
- hearing and vision loss;
- deposition of salts in the neck;
- numbness of the tongue;
- pain in the area of the heart that does not go away after taking Nitroglycerin;
- darkening in the eyes, dizziness and fainting with a sharp turn of the head;
- a state of constant tension in the neck muscles;
- limitation of mobility of the lower and upper limbs;
- throbbing pain in the occipital region, extending to the crown and temples;
- pain in the shoulders, aggravated by turning or bending;
- stiff neck and difficulty turning the head in the morning;
- pain in the cervical region, radiating to the eyes, ears, shoulders, manifested even during sleep;
- a feeling of pressure in the sternum;
- intensification of pain in the cervical spine during exertion or movement and its decrease after rest;
- feeling of lack of air and shortness of breath.
Symptoms of osteochondrosis depend on which cervical vertebra and nerve are affected:
- first, sensitivity decreases in the occipital region;
- the first - second - pain in the back of the head and head;
- the second - the third - numbness of the tongue, problems with speech, is rare;
- third - fourth - weakening of the cervical muscles, numbness and pain in the shoulder blade and shoulder;
- fourth, hiccups, heart pain, difficulty breathing, and infrequent;
- fourth - fifth - sensitivity in the shoulders decreases, pain appears;
- fifth - sixth - pain reaches the thumb of the upper limb;
- sixth - seventh - pain from the cervical region moves to the shoulder and shoulder, and also reaches the fingers, in addition, in these areas there is a loss of sensitivity;
- in case of nerve infringement between the first thoracic and eighth cervical vertebra, pain and numbness passes from the neck to the little finger.
Once an accurate diagnosis has been made, troubleshooting should begin.
Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis
In treatment, as in the diagnosis of cervical osteochondrosis, there are several methods:
- conservative;
- surgical;
- mixed.
With their help, pain is removed, the inflammatory process is removed, complications are prevented and the individual's condition improves for a certain period. It is impossible to completely cure the disease. The doctor, when choosing a method of treatment, focuses on the clinic, stage and form of the disease. With the conservative method, the following medications are used:
- “Sirdalud”, “Baclofen”, “Midokalm” - muscle relaxants.
- “Chondroxide”, “Teraflex”, “Alflutop”, “Arthron”, “Chondroitin” - chondoprotectors.
- “Diclofenac”, “Ketorol”, “Meloxicam”, “Nimesulide”, “Prednisolone”, “Hydrocortisone” - have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
- "Furosemide", "Veroshpiron" - diuretics.
- Milgamma, Ascorbic Acid, Tocopherol Acetate - Vitamins.
In addition to tablet dosage forms, drugs in the form of plasters, ointments or gels are widely used.
Among non-medications, they have proven themselves well:
- neck massage;
- physiotherapy exercises under the guidance of an experienced doctor;
- acupuncture;
- Wearing a special Shants collar;
- self-massage;
- vibration massage;
- the use of the Kuznetsov applicator;
- ultraviolet radiation;
- magnetotherapy;
- ultraviolet radiation;
- electrophoresis;
- balneotherapy;
- the use of orthopedic mattresses and pillows.
Surgery is resorted to with severe radicular syndrome, spinal cord compression, and growing problems with sensitivity and motor activity of the upper extremities.
It is important to remember that high-quality diagnosis and treatment of symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis depend on the qualifications of the doctor. For women, when choosing a method of therapy, the first place is given to the use of non-medications, and especially gymnastics. In addition, treatment of the disease in women is based on some specifics of the endocrine and cardiovascular systems. Therefore, the methods are somewhat different from the methods of treatment of the opposite sex. For which the basis is medicines, and in addition massage, physiotherapeutic procedures, gymnastics, etc.
Therapy of cervical osteochondrosis at home
Treatment of symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis at home:
- gymnastics;
- self-massage;
- rational nutrition, in which there are foods enriched with trace elements and vitamins;
- healthy sleep - involves the use of a hard or semi-rigid mattress, medium hardness, a small pillow for sleeping;
- the proper organization of the workspace - the chair and table should be matched for growth, should sit straight, after each hour of work, do a little workout;
- various anesthetic compresses using medicinal plant materials;
- taking medications recommended by a doctor.
All of the above measures can be used as a prophylaxis of the disease, and since the disease is getting younger, it is necessary to deal with its prevention from childhood. It is desirable that physical activity (swimming, running, yoga, Pilates, walking) is your constant companion. For example, the benefits of gymnastics in treating the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis at home are as follows:
- improving brain nutrition;
- increased mobility of the cervical spine;
- reduction of pain;
- plasticity strengthening;
- normalization of blood flow in problem areas;
- muscle development of the cervical zone.
The result will depend on the regularity of the exercises. Contraindications, which are mostly temporary, can be consulted with your doctor.
Diagnosis and medical rehabilitation of cervical osteochondrosis
Pain in the neck is a frequent companion of passive pastime. Most individuals of all ages face this problem. One of the causes of pain is cervical osteochondrosis. However, to confirm the diagnosis, you should contact the health care institution, where they will conduct the necessary types of examinations and prescribe treatment, after which it is advisable to undergo a full course of medical rehabilitation.
What is it? This is a set of measures aimed at restoring health and physical health. Rehabilitation doctors have developed special programs for this. The nature of measures for cervical osteochondrosis is determined by the stage of the disease and clinical manifestations. An individual rehabilitation program is selected for each individual. Thus, to prevent complications leading to disability, after the diagnosis of cervical osteochondrosis, treatment should be started immediately.