Spondylarthrosis of the cervical spine is a fairly common problem. And if a few decades ago, the ailment affected exclusively elderly people, today today young patients from the age of 25 years are often faced with a similar diagnosis. So what is a disease and what are its causes?
Spondylarthrosis of the cervical spine and its causes
Spondylarthrosis is a disease that is associated with gradual changes and degenerative processes of the vertebral elements, as well as the formation of very characteristic bone growths. As already mentioned, in this case, the age of a person is of great importance. According to statistics, approximately 90% of elderly patients suffer from this disease. After all, the aging process is accompanied by a change and deterioration of tissues.
On the other hand, ankylosing spondylarthrosis often occurs against a background of physical exertion. For example, physical stress can lead to a similar result, which is typical for professional athletes. On the other hand, static loads (such as sedentary work) are also referred to as risk factors. In some cases, the cause is congenital pathology of the spine, metabolic disorders, poor blood supply and even hormonal disruptions.
Spondylarthrosis of the cervical spine: symptoms
As a rule, the disease progresses slowly, and the first stages of degeneration can even proceed without visible symptoms. Nevertheless, as the disease develops, a feeling of heaviness, stiffness in the neck appears. Gradually, the joints of the vertebrae lose their mobility. In most cases, stiffness is striking in the morning, after sleep, but passes after a few hours. In the future, there are pains that increase with physical exertion, an uncomfortable posture, etc.
As already mentioned, spondylarthrosis of the cervical spine is accompanied by the formation of bone growths on the body of the vertebrae. These structures can pinch blood vessels or nerve endings, which leads to aggravation of the condition of patients. The disease is often accompanied by pain in the back of the head, shoulder blades, shoulders and arms. Depending on the degree of damage to the nerve endings, tinnitus, problems with vision and balance may appear.
In any case, stiffness and pain in the neck are enough reason to consult a doctor.
Spondylarthrosis of the cervical spine and treatment methods
A similar problem requires appropriate treatment. Therapy in this case depends on the degree of deformation. In the most severe situations, surgical intervention is indicated. But most often, doctors manage to stop the degeneration process using conservative methods.
During an exacerbation, medication is mandatory. Patients are prescribed painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs that quickly relieve stiffness and pain. In the future, it is necessary to take chondroprotectors, medicines that improve blood circulation, as well as the use of vitamin B6, which provides conduction along nerve fibers.
Useful is therapeutic gymnastics. Specially selected exercises will help strengthen muscles and create additional support for the vertebrae. In some cases, the patient is recommended from time to time to wear a neck corset, which relieves pressure. Without exacerbation, therapeutic massage, magnetotherapy, and other physiotherapy procedures will be useful.