Treatment of cervical spine osteochondrosis: medications, massage, gym therapy

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is a set of procedures designed to get rid of pain attacks and repair vertebral tissues. Effective results in treatment can be achieved by applying all the techniques regularly, strictly following the implementation instructions.

How the disease manifests itself

The spine has a complex structure. The coherence of the work of the whole organization depends on maintaining the individual components in a healthy state. The seven cervical vertebrae are located close to the base of the brain, in which all vital centers are concentrated.

The destruction of the segments and the change in the structure of the intervertebral discs lead to the following symptoms:

• headache that appears in the neck and passes into the occipital region;
• the muscles of the shoulder girdle gradually atrophy;
• there is insomnia, bad mood;
• there are ophthalmic problems: floating points in front of the eyes, blurred vision, blurred surrounding objects;
• mildly impaired movement coordination;
• painful feelings spread to the shoulders and forearms as well as the jaw;
• a violation of sensitivity in the hands often occurs, manifested by numbness and a feeling of "running goosebumps. "

Intolerable pain syndrome exhausts the patient. Early diagnosis allows therapeutic measures to be initiated in a timely manner so as not to lead to surgery. Conservative treatment is provided on an outpatient basis and at home. Changing lifestyle and quality of nutrition, strict adherence to sleep and wakefulness recommendations will stop the pathological process and allow for a full life.

Medication for cervical osteochondrosis

The chronic course of osteochondrosis alternates between acute periods and remission breaks. Medications are prescribed for the entire duration of the illness and are only prescribed by a doctor. The medications relieve pain, eliminate inflammation, regenerate damaged tissues and treat the neck region. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, tablet forms, intramuscular injection into the vertebrae, topical exposure to ointments and gels are used.

1. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have been shown to be effective anesthetics in the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical region while also affecting inflammatory processes. It is advisable to use NSAIDs for signs of inflammation, but they have a number of side effects, especially negative effects on the gastric mucosa. Therefore, when administered orally, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed to protect the stomach that suppress acid production.
2. Analgesics are primarily used for local neuromuscular blockades. Pain that is not relieved with non-hormonal drugs can be relieved by direct injection into the active sites or the vertebral body.
3. Glucocorticosteroids are steroid drugs that are synthetic analogs of hormones produced by the adrenal cortex. For the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis, corticosteroids are prescribed to relieve severe pain, combat progressive inflammation, improve metabolic processes, and have an immunomodulatory effect.
4. Sedatives to improve sleep and general well-being - valerian or peony tincture. Long-term use of weak sedatives is non-addictive and effective in combating neurological disorders.
5. Chondroprotectors are needed to stop the destruction of cartilage tissue and then to increase bone processes. The chondroitin included in the formulations fills the structure of the vertebrae with glucosamine with the missing chemicals that improve cell nutrition, synthesis and self-renewal. In order to achieve a lasting effect, the medication must be taken for a long time, sometimes for a lifetime.
6. Improving cerebral circulation is important in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis. Medications eliminate dizziness, improve cellular trophism, reduce the sensitivity of nerve roots, and dilate blood vessels.
7. In case of vasospasm, the blood pressure rises. When recording high numbers of systolic and diastolic indicators, antihypertensive drugs are taken in an "outpatient setting".
8. Diuretic decongestants are prescribed for the acute course of cervical osteochondrosis. Removal of excess fluid prevents an increase in blood pressure, reduces the load, improves metabolism.
9. Consumption of a multivitamin complex with adequate amounts of minerals and trace elements improves metabolism and ensures the normal course of biochemical processes in the body.

Massage therapy

One other way to get rid of the pain and discomfort in the neck and upper extremities is with a massage. The action of the hands on the muscles of the collar zone improves the microcirculation of the local blood, relieves muscle tone by increasing the load, and also heals the neck itself. Bringing the muscles to work improves the excretion of accumulated lactic acid, relaxes the muscle tissue.

Two techniques are used to eliminate the consequences of cervical osteochondrosis:

1. The collar zone is massaged by a specialist following the exact instructions for the permissible load. The movements consist of caressing, kneading and intense massaging movements. Reducing pain and improving motor activity in the upper shoulder girdle confirms that the procedure was performed correctly.
2. Pressure on active points with pressure movements is a less popular but effective method. Performing this technique requires special training from the massage therapist.

After training, the muscles of the neck cannot be overstretched, so it is recommended to wear a medium-hard orthopedic collar for three hours. This measure confirms the impact of the masseur’s efforts.

Massage may not always bring positive results in the treatment of the neck region, there are contraindications, the ignorance of which has sad consequences:

• oncological diseases of various localizations;
• the active form of Koch rod infection;
• systemic blood disorders;
• hypertension during the decompensation stage;
• dermatological lesions of the collar region and neck skin;
• aortic aneurysm;
• necrotic processes with the formation of pus in the bones.

Physiotherapy procedures for cervical osteochondrosis

Further treatment of cervical osteochondrosis with physiotherapy is always included in the therapeutic complex of cervical osteochondrosis. The use of this method allows the treating physician to reduce drug doses and minimize the potential for complications and allergic reactions. Carrying out a complete course of treatment guarantees the normalization of metabolism, an increase in the circulatory capacity of the blood vessels and the cessation of pain.

Types of physiotherapy for cervical osteochondrosis:

1. Electrical stimulation - the use of high frequency current to affect the muscles of the neck and shoulder girdle. During the session, the effect of thermal heating of the neck appears, blood circulation improves, and unpleasant feelings disappear.
2. Magnetotherapy - exposure to a pulsating magnetic field in a diseased area. The waves penetrate up to a depth of 7 cm, providing a cumulative healing effect. The pain and inflammation disappear, a stable therapeutic effect is observed until the next course of magnetic therapy. The procedures can be performed in an outpatient clinic or at home, using special tools.
3. Laser therapy is an alternative therapeutic method based on low intensity laser radiation. The beams are directed to the region of the cervical vertebrae and along the nerve roots. The laser removes pain and inflammatory reactions and promotes tissue regeneration.
4. Detensor therapy is used to stretch the vertebrae and relax the muscles and connective tissues of the back. Under the weight of one's own body, a slight "straightening" of the spinal segments, an improvement in metabolic processes, and the cessation of muscle spasms restore the structure of the spinal column.
5. Balneotherapy - the healing properties of mineral waters are most often used in sanatoriums.

Bathing has the following purposes in treating the neck region:

• muscles relax, pain disappears and blood microcirculation improves;
• metabolic processes are accelerated, toxins can be removed from the body;
• Iodine and bromine ions react, and together with hydrogen sulfide, the oxygen in the water penetrates the body and improves the nutrition of the cells.

Physiotherapy

It significantly improves the condition and reduces the number of pain attacks in cervical spine osteochondrosis, helps to perform special exercises on a regular basis. The instructor of physiotherapy practices recommends and compiles a medical complex. The specialist will teach you the techniques for performing the exercises correctly and will plan the training scheme and number of exercises.

Classes should only be started during the inactive phase of the disease. Exercise therapy relaxes muscles, regulates metabolism, allows you to forget about acute pain attacks, dizziness and poor health. You can also perform therapeutic exercises at home after consulting a specialist.

When performing therapeutic exercises for maximum benefit, you need to follow a few rules:

• you need to make sure you are in good health before class starts;
• movements should be performed slowly and smoothly, without jerking;
• the recommendations for the number of exercises should be followed exactly as instructed;
• if sharp pain occurs during the hour, the lesson should be stopped immediately;
• inform your physiotherapist about the changes.

Approximate list of practices for the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis:

• in a sitting position, turn your head smoothly in different directions;
• lower the head forward and downward by touching the lower jaw of the body;
• tilt the neck back without lifting the lower jaw;
• place your head on the inside of your hand so that the arm is in a bent position, emphasizing the hard surface, tilt your head, creating resistance with your hand, repeat with each hand;
• lower your head while resisting with your hand;
• lower your arms, do a static exercise while raising your shoulders.

All exercises are performed in a sitting position with your back straight. Each movement is performed 8-10 times.

Self-massage for the treatment

Self-massage is an effective treatment. The advantage of this method is the possibility of manipulation at any time. The patient feels the force required to press on the neck region to feel pleasant warmth rather than pain.

The self-massage technique:

• You can perform massage movements with one or both hands;
• it must grip the entire surface of the neck;
• the session should begin with a smooth caress, pressing lightly on the skin;
• the next step is to rub the muscles with the edge of the palm or thumbs;
• active muscle attacks with palms pulled to the side;
• a slight tap in the collar zone;
• you should finish with caressing movements.

Each operation is performed for 30 seconds, the total duration of the self-massage is about three minutes. Each manipulation is performed at a slow pace, with each person individually determining the pressure force.

Orthopedic mode

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis should not be without medical devices designed to relieve the load on the vertebrae and surrounding tissues:

1. The Shants collar is one of the most commonly prescribed medical devices for relieving and treating the neck. The neck brace is designed for use during wakefulness, during possible strain on the neck muscles: long computer work, cooking, and others.
2. Orthopedic pillow for good rest during sleep. The product is selected individually, taking into account the length of the shoulder belt. When using a therapeutic pillow, the spine does not have an unnatural buckling, the blood supply is not disturbed, and the person feels relaxed.
3. The orthopedic mattress is used to treat diseases of the spine: osteochondrosis, protrusions, intervertebral hernia. The therapeutic effect is based on the principle of stretching the spinal segments in a vertical position.

Dietary therapy for the treatment of the neck

The principles of proper nutrition should be followed in the treatment of osteochondrosis. The diet should be low in calories, with enough vitamins and minerals.

What not to include in your daily diet:

• pickles;
• sausages and smoked meats;
• high-fat mayonnaise and sour cream;
• sugar and confectionery;
• sweet carbonated beverages;
• alcohol.

Authorized products:

• calcium-rich dairy products;
• aspic from fish or beef leg;
• natural fruit juices;
• low-fat fish and meat;
• fresh fruits and vegetables.

Alternative methods for treating cervical osteochondrosis

Ancient recipes from healers complement the treatment of the neck perfectly. The experience we have gained over the years allows us to use only the most effective products that are made regardless of the natural ingredients available. Herbs, medicinal alcohol and animal derivatives can serve as a medicinal base.

Popular treatment recipes:

1. Twist three medium lemons, without peeling, in a meat grinder. Add five chopped garlic and half a glass of honey to the resulting mass. Pour boiling water over the mixture and let stand for two hours. Drink 100 ml every morning on an empty stomach.
2. Prepare 200 grams of pine nuts and grind with two glasses of granulated sugar. The therapeutic mass should be taken daily, 1 tablespoon.
3. Mix a small amount of honey with aloe juice and add a little alcohol. The resulting solution is used to rub the cervical vertebrae.
4. Crush the boiled potatoes and add honey. Apply the resulting product to the sore spot, secure it to the top with adhesive film and wrap it in a warm blanket. It is fashionable to leave the compress for 3 hours.
5. The raw material ground from the hop cones is mixed with butter into an ointment. Rubbing on sore areas relieves pain and inflammation.

Despite their herbal origins, the ingredients in traditional medicine can be harmful.

Therefore, possible contraindications should be ruled out before using this method:

• predisposition to allergic reactions;
• skin damage in the area of intended use;
• individual intolerance to ingredients;
• inflammation in the acute phase;
• pathology of the stomach, liver, kidneys after oral administration.

Prevention

The health of the whole body depends on the condition of the spine. To prevent the appearance of degenerative-dystrophic lesions in each segment, simple rules help to:

• leading a healthy lifestyle without bad habits;
• Regular exercise;
• eat right, avoiding the appearance of being overweight;
• if you experience persistent pain in your neck, consult an orthopedist for medical advice.

Treating cervical osteochondrosis is a long process that requires patience and strict adherence to the doctor’s instructions. A positive outcome depends on the quality of the therapeutic manipulations and the attitude of the patient.