Dull neck pain, which increases with movement, headache, discomfort - these are the main symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis. This insidious disease can cause a lot of inconvenience to a person, 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 of time, which leads to changes in tissues and organs.
The causes of the disease can be strong physical exertion, monotonous movements associated with working conditions, prolonged stay in an awkward position. In addition, the occurrence of cervical osteochondrosis can cause low physical activity, which worsens the process of blood circulation in the tissues along 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, vibrations, noise, bruises).
Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis
The main symptoms of osteochondrosis of the neck are as follows:
- headache, which may worsen during movement;
- reduced visual acuity;
- throbbing pain in the eyes;
- increased pressure (caused by compression of blood vessels in the cervical region);
- chest pain, which may resemble the pain of angina pectoris;
- numbness of the hands;
- dizziness.
If you experience any of these symptoms, you need to see a doctor.
Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis
Self-treatment of osteochondrosis is categorically excluded. After all, if painkillers can relieve pain, then the inflammatory process is unlikely. In order not to worsen the situation, it is better to follow 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 alleviate the symptoms, improve the general condition and prevent the occurrence of exacerbations. For this purpose, the most suitable is a complex treatment, which includes the use of hydroprotectors (help to restore the cartilage of the discs), vasodilators (activate blood circulation in the spine).
Patients with osteochondrosis are often prescribed a course of massage. The course is recommended twice a year, for 10 sessions. This method of treatment can improve blood circulation and reduce pain.
Alternative medicine is also used to treat osteochondrosis, especially resorting 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 do yoga, fitness, swimming and other activities regularly, or you can do simple exercises that will be good for your neck and spine.
For example, you can do head tilts: while exhaling, tilt your head slightly forward, while inhaling - back. Make three inclines in each direction. Then do the same, tilting your head left and right. Try to keep the movements smooth.
In addition, try to do the following: join your palms above your head while pulling your elbows to the side. Then press your palms together with all your strength, gradually relaxing your arms. Repeat 3 times.
You can finish light gymnastics with self-massage, rubbing your neck with circular hand movements. 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!