Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine (Osteochondrosis) is a degenerative-dystrophic lesion of the intervertebral discs, due to which the discs themselves, 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 especially susceptible to it, because due to their anatomical structure, the shoulder girdle is not as strong as men's.
Characteristics of cervical osteochondrosis
The neck is a part of the body that is very mobile and is subject to significant stress (constant holding of the head).Moreover, the size of the vertebrae here is much smaller than in other parts of the spine.Large vessels that supply the brain pass through the neck, so poor circulation due to displacement of the vertebral structures and disruption of the lumen of 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 others or in isolation.
Treatment of the disease is most actively carried out with the help of drug therapy, the purpose of which is to relieve inflammation and spasm, relieve pain, restore blood microcirculation and improve cerebral circulation.The main drugs for relieving muscle spasms and treating 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 exacerbation of the disease or when the health condition improves somewhat after the use of drugs.
Physiotherapy is also used - mainly amplipulse therapy and electrophoresis with novocaine on the cervical region.
Exercise therapy and gymnastics are prescribed both in the acute phase in the form of static exercises, and when the symptoms of the disease subside 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 domestic folk remedies with medicines prescribed by a doctor.Self-treatment includes lying on special applicators, using heating rubs and compresses (with iodine, alcohol, mustard), and warm baths with medicinal herbs.