Spondylosis of the cervical spine: symptoms and treatment

Deforming spondylosis of the cervical spine: symptoms and treatment, what is it?

One of the most frequent diseases of the musculoskeletal system is the spondylosis of the cervical spine. Constant pain, discomfort, restriction of mobility of the neck and head - these are just some of the consequences of the development of the disease.

Mechanism of pathology development

To correctly understand what spondylosis is, knowledge of the musculoskeletal system will help. The human spine is a pillar consisting of individual elements - vertebrae. In an adult, there are 32 to 34 of them.

The spine consists of sections called the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral and coccygeal. The vertebrae that make up a certain section of the spine are called similarly.

The number of vertebrae in different departments varies from 3-5 to 12.

Regardless of the location of the vertebrae have a similar structure. Each of them has a body and arcs - the upper and lower, forming a vertebral foramen, and several appendages. Scions are necessary for articulation of the vertebrae and attachment of muscles.

With their help, mobility and amortization of the entire spine are provided.

The cervical department consists of 7 vertebrae and is the most mobile. Its 1st department - atlant - is attached to the occipital foramen of the skull. The main difference of this vertebra is the absence of the body.

The arcs that make it are joined together by thickening of the bone tissue, that is, lateral masses. The cervical spine provides mobility of the head.

The pathological deformation of the intervertebral discs located in this part of the spine causes spondylosis.

Description of the disease

Spondylosis, as a rule, is the result of deformation of individual components of the spine; it can be the destruction of individual vertebrae, causing their dysfunction.

Another cause of spondylosis - the formation of outgrowths of bone tissue along the edges of the vertebrae, causing the destruction of intervertebral discs.

The outgrowths may take the form of a spine or antennae and are called spondylophytes or osteophytes, respectively.

Scions in the form of a spine, i.e., osteophytes, limit the normal mobility of the cervical vertebrae and significantly reduce their elasticity. The growth of osteophytes on adjacent vertebrae leads to their splicing.

Considering the disease, allocate groups of risk. The deforming spondylosis of the cervical spine often develops in the elderly and elderly.

In addition, he is subject to people with limited mobility. For example, leading low-activity lifestyle, suffering from physical inactivity or disability.

Very often the development of spondylosis provokes obesity or monotonous sedentary work.

In children, adolescents and young people, spondylosis in the cervical spine is relatively rare. It develops in young people, as a rule, due to lack of mobility, violation of posture, some problems of the musculoskeletal system.

If symptoms and treatment were found immediately, it is possible to eliminate spondylosis of the cervical spine at a young age or in childhood. Otherwise, especially at an older age, the disease quickly acquires a chronic form. Then completely cure spondylosis is impossible.

Causes and symptoms of ailment

Among the main causes of deformation of individual components of the cervical spine and contributing to the development of spondylosis in this area, we should mention such points as:

• long-term presence in the sitting position;
• violation of posture;
• increased physical activity;
• sudden hypothermia;
• age-related changes in the musculoskeletal system;
• hereditary predisposition.

The diseases that cause spondylosis of the cervical department include:

• osteochondrosis;
• inflammatory diseases of the joints;
• osteoarthritis;
• serious injuries of the spine;
• flat feet.

On the development of spondylosis in the cervical spine may indicate such signs and symptoms as:

• persistent painful sensations of a nagging character in the lower part of the nape and in the shoulder girdle, intensifying at night or with movements of the head;
• decreased overall mobility of the neck;
• painful sensations of the shoulder joint, extending along the entire length of the arm;
• impaired mobility of hands, numbness and tingling;
• pain in the ears and eyes, loss of sight and hearing with prolonged immobility of the head and neck;
• lack of tactile sensitivity in the neck;
• the need to increase efforts in the movement of the head: slopes, bends, nods, etc.;
• noticeable weakening of the neck muscles;
• unpleasant sensations and sounds during the movement of the neck;
• frequent dizziness;
• the appearance of pain when tilting the head to the back;
• pain in the back of the neck, occiput and other parts of the head, the increase of which is observed after morning awakening and during the day.

Especially it should be said about the violation of sleep in the development of cervical spondylosis. The disease causes problems with determining a comfortable position in bed.

Long stay in a motionless or uncomfortable state causes tangible pain. This increases the load on all joints and ligaments of the spine in the cervical region or slightly lower.

This causes a noticeable increase in discomfort.

When cervical spondylosis passes into a neglected form, additional symptoms appear and the treatment is carried out according to a slightly modified scheme. Among the signs of such cervical spondylosis should be named:

• muscle spasms;
• violation of urination;
• partial dysfunction of the lower limbs, which causes unpleasant sensations in the performance of elementary movements.

Conducting diagnostics

When there are unpleasant sensations in the neck, it is necessary to consult a specialist. After conducting an anamnestic conversation, the doctor will perform a general examination of the patient.

The area of ​​pain localization is studied especially. At the same time, palpation, palpation, and easy tapping are used.

The received anamnestic data help to make a true clinical picture of the disease and prescribe treatment procedures.

Principles of treatment

The main ways to treat this disease:

• preparations of oral type;
• physiotherapy;
• physiotherapeutic procedures;
• massage;
• correction of the regime and lifestyle;
• wearing a special collar or corset to limit movements of the head and neck.

Since the disease occurs with periodic exacerbations, during the relapse period, the treatment is performed in a strengthened version. After the onset of remission, the intensity of therapeutic measures can be reduced.

Medication Therapy

Medications are prescribed taking into account the symptoms of the disease in a particular patient, his age, the general state of the body and other individual data.

With the help of medicines, the intensity of the course of the disease is generally reduced, the general health of the patient improves, and so on.

Therefore, patients with spondylosis for oral administration must be prescribed drugs from such groups as:

• NSAIDs, i.e., non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
• painkillers;
• antidepressants;
• muscle relaxants;
• narcotic.

Medications from the last two groups are most often needed in especially serious cases to relieve muscle spasms and acute pain.

Anesthesia in cervical spondylosis is also performed with topical preparations.

Typically, for external application, funds containing capsaicin are prescribed.

Physiotherapeutic procedures

Treatment with physiotherapy significantly reduces pain in the affected area. With the help of physiotherapeutic procedures, it is possible to significantly intensify microcirculation in the spine and adjacent tissues.

Physiotherapeutic procedures are useful to patients of any age and have virtually no contraindications. This is due to the fact that:

1. 1 Physiotherapy affects only the affected area of ​​the spine, without affecting nearby organs and tissues.
2. 2Allergic reactions to procedures do not develop.
3. 3Crease of concomitant chronic diseases under the influence of physiotherapy is not observed.
4. 4 Restorative processes in the body under the influence of manipulation are markedly amplified.
5. No side effects are noted.

The main physiotherapy procedures prescribed by patients with cervical spondylosis are:

• electrophoresis with the introduction of novocain in the cervical spine;
• ultrasound treatment;
• magnetotherapy;
• vibration influence;
• diadynamic currents;
• shock-wave and laser therapy;
• balneo- and detensor-therapy.

The course of physiotherapy is prescribed for spondylosis during remission.

Manual therapy

Light massage in the treatment of cervical spondylosis is considered one of the most effective methods. Therefore, it is often prescribed to such a patient. This helps to reduce the intensity of pain, increase the mobility of the spine, improve the damaged posture.

Usually a massage session in the treatment of cervical spondylosis begins with stroking the affected area. Further, kneading and rubbing of adjacent muscle tissues is carried out.

When antispandial massage is not performed:

• intensive massaging of the damaged area;
• increased pressing;
• stretching the spine;
• effleurage.

Traumatic massaging methods can exacerbate the disease.

Physiotherapy

Therapeutic exercise in spondylosis is necessary to strengthen the spinal muscular framework and relieve unnecessary strain on the spine. You can practice physical therapy both in a medical institution under the guidance of a specialist and at home.

The basic rules of exercise therapy for cervical spondylosis recommend:

• avoid overexertion;
• avoid sudden movements of the neck and head during classes;
• Do exercises lying, on all fours (with severe pain) or standing up.

In case of self-employment, a patient with spondylosis needs to use a set of exercises recommended by a doctor.

Exercises are selected in such a way that the spine during exercise is maximally unloaded. Loads should increase gradually.

In this case, you need to closely monitor the reaction of the body, the appearance of unpleasant sensations, etc.

Possible consequences of pathology

Spondylosis of the cervical spine can provoke the development of many dangerous consequences.

For example, squeezing blood vessels caused by spondylosis leads to an increase in arterial and intracranial pressure.

This causes frequent headaches, dizziness, hearing and visual impairment.

Osteophytes, growing, worsen the permeability of the spinal canal. This can lead to infringement of adjacent nerves and arteries. The result is constant pain and numbness of the lower extremities. May develop intervertebral hernia.

Cervical spondylosis, unfortunately, can not be fully cured.

When the disease is transferred to a chronic form, the patient must be under the constant supervision of a specialist.

Together with supporting treatment, this will help stabilize the patient's general condition and maintain the functions of the spine.

A source: http://LechenieGryzhi.ru/spondilez-shejnogo-otdela-pozvonochnika/

Cervical spondylosis: symptoms, treatment and possible complications

Spondylosis of the cervical spine is a disease characterized by a combination of degenerative and dystrophic disorders. It flows with the defeat of the spine in the neck.

Usually observed in the elderly, a long time passes without certain symptoms. It differs in the processes of ossification of the anterior ligament, the pathology of intervertebral discs, the appearance of bone growths on the vertebrae.

It is manifested by decreased mobility, pain in the occipital region and neck.

What is it and the causes of the disease?

Deforming spondylosis of the cervical spine is a chronic disease characterized by pathological changes in the degenerative and dystrophic plan. Usually affects the elderly (60 years and older) and is rarely found among the younger generation.

This is the most common type of spondylosis, which is due to the peculiarities of the anatomy and physiology of the cervical region.

Joints of the neck have high rates of mobility in comparison with the lumbar or thoracic areas. But the muscle cortex here is somewhat weaker.

And when performing a variety of professional or household duties, often it is necessary to keep the neck in a non-physiological position.

As a result, a significant overload is applied to muscles, ligaments and intervertebral discs.

Other reasons for spondylosis include:

• age-related metabolic changes;
• processes of natural aging;
• trauma to the neck;
• metabolic disturbances, leading to the deposition of calcium salts;
• failure in the work of hormones;
• frequent hypothermia;
• infectious processes with chronic course.

Spondylosis usually affects workers in the mental sphere, whose professional activities are directly related to finding one in a static situation.

In this regard, a high load is created on certain parts of the neck, weak muscles of which are not able to compensate it. Often promotes spondylarthrosis or osteochondrosis, leading to instability of the neck joints. Often they are combined with spondylosis.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Cervical Spondylosis

As a result of the above reasons, pathological processes develop in the spine (its cervical part). Intervertebral discs lose water, gradually erase and acquire a flat look. Appear bony growths (osteophytes) on the edges of the vertebrae, beginning to deform them.

With spondylosis of the cervical region, the leading symptoms are manifested in the limitation of mobility and pain sensations due to compression of the nerve roots leaving the spinal cord (radiculopathy). Predominantly, the pain is localized in the occipital region, has a different degree of severity, increasing with the turn, head rises and inclinations. Over time, it acquires permanence.

There are other characteristic symptoms:

• presence of stiff neck in the neck;
• a feeling of muscle weakness;
• numbness of hands, fingers and hands;
• problems with coordination and gait;
• headache;
• feeling weak in the legs or hands;
• periodic muscular spasms in the shoulders, neck;
• sensation of tingling, tingling in the hands (paresthesia).

For a long time the disease proceeds without any characteristic clinical manifestations. If one of these symptoms is found, you should contact the medical institution for a complete examination and the appropriate course of therapy.

Symptoms help the doctor at the stage of diagnosis, which includes finding out the patient's complaints, collecting the medical history, performing an external examination and palpation of the affected area. Among the instrumental methods, it is necessary to isolate the x-ray, which is performed in 3 projections (lateral, direct and oblique).

It allows to detect characteristic sprouting of bones in the spine and pathological changes in the vertebrae. Problems with nerve conduction are well revealed by electromyography.

Degrees of disease and their features

In the spondylosis of the neck on the basis of clinical manifestations and radiographic signs, a grading system has been developed.

Degree of disease	Main symptoms	X-ray data
I	Characterized by the absence of a bright clinic. Sometimes neck mobility suffers.	Minor bone growths are revealed.
II	There are sensations of pain in the neck, intensified by hypothermia and intense stress. Progression of mobility progresses. Cervical lordosis acquires a flatness.	The bone deformation progresses, osteophytes of neighboring vertebrae begin to grow towards each other.
III	There is complete immobility of the vertebrae. There are intense pains with strong muscle tension.	The neighboring bodies of the vertebrae are joined by osteophytes. Outwardly resembling a bracket.

In the neck area, the appearance of bone growths is usually noted in the region of the first three vertebrae. With the progression of pathology (second, third degree), blood vessels spasmodic, and lactic acid accumulates in the muscles.

Possible complications

The most terrible complication of spondylosis in the neck - a complete lack of mobility, it becomes the cause of disability.

Other effects include dizziness, which is associated with a lack of blood flow through the vertebral arteries, which are compressed by osteophytes.

Sometimes even fainting occurs.

If the nerve roots are squeezed together with the vessels, there are problems from the side of hearing and sight.

Patients lose the ability to concentrate their eyes and often complain of hearing impairment. They are disturbed by noise in the ears, flies before their eyes.

Characteristic for this pathology, the pain becomes chronic, disrupting the quality of life and causing sleep problems.

Methods of cervical spondylosis treatment

In spondylosis of the cervical spine, the methods of treatment are aimed at eliminating pain, improving blood supply with restoring all components of this area and maintaining mobility. In the final result, it is necessary to slow the pathological processes in the intervertebral discs and their tissues.

Complex treatment includes:

1. Medicamentous therapy: anti-inflammatory drugs, chondroprotectors, muscle relaxants, multivitamins and analgesics; injections with steroids and blockade of the affected area (arched joints, paraverrebral).
2. Laser therapy: laser application activates metabolic processes.
3. Physiotherapy: electrophoresis with novocaine, dynamic currents, ultrasound.
4. Massage and manual therapy.
5. Complex exercises from exercise therapy (a good therapeutic effect is noticeable after classes using the method of Bubnovsky).

Natural therapeutic remedies from folk medicine that can be used at home are useful. To reduce the load due to forced position, an elastic cervical collar is useful.

In some cases, the disease must be treated promptly.

It is indicated in the absence of effectiveness of the above methods, the presence of progressive signs of pathology neurological plan and if the disease begins to be accompanied by other pathologies (osteochondrosis or spondylarthrosis).

Prophylactic recommendations

In connection with the fact that spondylosis is initially asymptomatic, doctors recommend doing prevention:

• to develop a correct posture;
• take breaks with sedentary work;
• to live an active lifestyle;
• try to sit with a straight back;
• protect your neck from injury;
• undergo annual medical examination.

It is useful to engage in simulators, visit the pool, various physical activities in gyms, perform gymnastics at home.

There are few people in the world who face pain in the neck every day. Often its primary cause is the spondylosis of the cervical vertebrae, which is a chronic disease with pathological changes in the degenerative and dystrophic plan.

Its manifestations prevent a person from leading a full life and engage in daily activities. Therefore, doctors are strongly advised to seek help when the very first signs of the disease appear.

A source: http://PozvonochnikPro.ru/bolezni-sustavov/spondilez-shejnogo-otdela.html

Spondylosis of the spine of the cervical spine: signs and treatment

With age, the skin fades, the body is progressing imbalance, old diseases remind themselves of acute attacks.

Most irreversible processes of organic resource are defined as "pathological among them spondylosis of the cervical spine.

This is a neglected and intractable diagnosis with irreversible changes in the joints, bones and cartilages of a dystrophic nature.

What is the spondylosis of the cervical spine?

This relapsing diagnosis proceeds with a large growth on the vertebrae of distinctive growths.

The characteristic development of the structure of the spine entails functional and structural disruption of tissues, and the appearance of osteophytes is clearly visualized on an x-ray.

These are spine-like bony growths that, having different parameters and characteristics, easily change the appearance of bone units, worsen their habitual functions.

Degenerative tissue changes predominate not only in pre-retirement age, the problem is getting younger every year. The prerequisites for spinal fusion of the cervical spine are the following:

• increased load on the skeleton during the working day;
• supercooling;
• long back injury;
• inflammation of the joints;
• attacks of osteochondrosis and osteoarthritis.

At an early stage, the pathology proceeds in a latent form, a person complains of discomfort with a static load in the occipital area.

Extensive diseases of the cervical spine have similar symptoms, and relapse always begins with severe pain. With inaction, such seizures become more frequent even at rest.

If the muscles of the cervical region are affected, the pain syndrome is concentrated on the occiput, in the shoulder girdle, while disturbing the sight and acuity of hearing. Additional symptoms of the diagnosis are:

• immobility and tenderness of the neck with sharp turns of the head in different directions;
• periodic dizziness for no apparent reason;
• crunch of the vertebrae of the neck;
• protrusion (protrusion) of discs;
• partial loss of sensitivity of the upper limbs.

If the DSD of the cervical region predominates in the advanced stage, severe symptoms appear, represented by extensive body dysfunctions:

• tremor of the lower extremities;
• atrophy of muscle mass;
• pinched nerve;
• causeless weight loss;
• micturition failure;
• regular spasms of individual muscle groups;
• incorrect coordination of movements.

With such changes in the general state of health, it is important to immediately consult a specialist, undergo a complete examination of the body, determine the pathology, provoke its factors, and then eliminate it.

Diagnostics

To visualize the pinched nerve of the spinal column and its degenerative changes, a clinical examination with preliminary data collection of the anamnesis is required. After consulting a doctor it is important to undergo such procedures:

1. MRI. Thanks to the magnetic fields of high frequency, you can determine the actual state of the spinal column, highlight the problem areas, determine their exact size, placement in the cervical region.
2. X-ray visualizes the appearance of osteophytes, determines the changes in the structure and functionality of the vertebrae and discs.
3. CT. With the help of computed tomography, doctors diagnose stenosis of vertebral canals, its size, degree of lesion.

After diagnosis, drug therapy is indicated, which provides for a comprehensive approach to this neuralgia problem.

Weakened muscles of the cervical region are difficult to yield to productive therapy, the disease is prone to chronic course with the threat of disability.

To achieve positive dynamics, the elimination of the load, the suppression of pain attacks, the alignment of the posture and the strengthening of weakened muscles are laid.

Doctors offer the following sequence of actions in spondylosis of the cervical spine:

1. Conservative treatment is important for suppressing inflammation and an attack of pain. Therefore it is important to take such non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as Diclofenac, Ketonov, Ibuprofen.
2. Physiotherapy offers therapeutic measures for strengthening the neck muscles: exercise therapy, electrophoresis, the use of diadynamic currents.
3. Therapeutic exercises and massage, thanks to certain exercises, align the posture, strengthen the neck muscles, eliminate vertebral imbalance.
4. Manual course and acupuncture are effective methods of alternative medicine, returning former mobility.

Also read: osteochondrosis of the cervical spine - symptoms and treatment, a set of exercises and the stage of the disease.

How to treat the cervical spine if it hurts

Modern medicine offers a number of time-tested techniques for the effective treatment of cervical spondylosis.

All patients and just interested in the actual look through the proposed videos that help to remove the pain, strengthen muscle mass, provide a period of remission of the diagnosis.

A source: http://sovets.net/5551-spondilez-pozvonochnika-sheinogo-otdela.html

Spondylosis of the cervical spine - what is it, symptoms, treatment, causes

Cervical spondylosis is a dystrophic disease of the spine, in which there is an outgrowth of osteophytes along the edges of the vertebral bodies.

The cervical spine is the most mobile, in this connection degenerative changes of bones occur.

If you find symptoms indicating osteophytes in the cervical spine, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible for help in treating the disease.

What it is

What is the deforming spondylosis of the cervical spine? The so-called osteophytes formed in vertebrae have the form of "thorns "beaks "antennae" directed towards the bodies. The severity of their severity is difficult to determine, these changes are easily seen on the roentgenogram, and in more advanced cases, the deformation of the vertebral bodies is already noticeable.

Spondylosis may result from a sedentary lifestyle

Such changes in the shape and size of the vertebra, which occur, in principle, painlessly, are called spondylosis. Most often this kind of develops in people with an age of more than 50 years.

Of the three types of this disease of the spine - cervical, thoracic, lumbar, - the most common is the spondylosis of the neck.

Causes

• result of joint inflammation;
• spine trauma of various origin
• osteoarthritis;
• osteochondrosis;
• prolonged static load (sedentary work), which leads to a violation of posture;
• the consequence of age-related changes is the growth of bone tissue;
• supercooling.

We must also take into account the degree of mobility of the cervical region, so it is not surprising that there is a widespread manifestation of this disease.

Symptoms of spondylosis

• severe pain in the occipital part, especially in the first half of the day, also aching sensations are observed in the back of the head, in the shoulder girdle, in the eyes and ears;
• discomfort and limited mobility of the neck, especially when turning the head;
• crunching in the neck;
• dizziness;
• in connection with lesions of nerve endings, the spread of pain in the hand, often weakness, numbness and tingling.

In severe cases, there is a loss of muscle mass and muscle atrophy, with the involvement of the spinal cord - uneven gait, trouble urinating. Frequent occurrence of muscle spasm with twitching of legs.

The main methods of treatment of osteophytes of the cervical spine

Treatment is mainly aimed at eliminating inflammation and pain.

1. Drug therapy, which consists in the use of drugs of the NSAID group (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) - ibuprofen, diclofenac, indomethacin, movalis, ketonal and others.
2. Manual therapy, which in this case is most effective.It is worth noting contraindications - this is an intensive massage, stretching the spine.Manual therapy is the most effective "people's" method of fighting the disease
3. Physiotherapy: electrophoresis with novocaine on the area affected by osteophytes, diadynamic currents, ultrasound treatment directed to the spine area.
4. Gentle physiotherapy, which is able to strengthen the muscular back skeleton, the exception is gymnastics for the mobilization of the spine.

For anesthesia in acute periods, treatment is possible by using analgesics such as baralgin, ketorol. This method may be carried out within a few days to restore efficiency.

Treatment of the deforming spondylosis of the cervical region should also additionally be aimed at preventing complications.

An important moment in the prevention of the appearance of osteophytes is manipulation with the help of professional therapeutic massage.

When treated on their own, you can only do worse, so do not self-medicate.

In any case, if there is a suspicion of spondylosis, you should immediately contact a specialist.

It will restore the mobility of the cervical spine with the help of complex treatment measures and improve the general condition of the patient.

A source: http://spina-sustav.ru/pozvonochnik/spondilez-shejnogo-otdela-simptomy-lechenie.html

Cervical spondylosis

Cervical spondylosis- degenerative-dystrophic disease of the cervical spine.

Includes changes in intervertebral discs, ossification of the anterior longitudinal ligament and appearance of bone growths on the anterior and lateral surfaces of the vertebrae. Usually occurs in old age.

May be asymptomatic for a long time. With a decrease in the height of the discs and the attachment of spondyloarthrosis, it manifests itself by limiting mobility of the neck, pain in the neck and occiput.

To clarify the diagnosis using radiography, MRI, CT, myelography, electromyography and other studies. Treatment is usually conservative.

Cervical spondylosis is a degenerative-dystrophic lesion of the cervical spine. In most cases it is a consequence of involutive processes that occurs in the elderly. Initial signs of spondylosis are often seen on radiographs of patients aged 50 years and older.

More than 90% of people over 65 years of age suffer from spondylosis of one degree or another. In some cases, the disease can develop in young people. Cervical spondylosis is the most common type of spondylosis.

This is due to the anatomical and physiological features of the cervical spine.

The neck is very mobile, and the muscular corset in this area is weaker than in other parts of the spinal column.

In most cases, clinically manifested cervical spondylosis is combined with other involutive lesions of the spine: osteochondrosis and spondyloarthrosis.

Anatomy and pathogenesis of cervical spondylosis

The cervical region is the most mobile part of the spine. It consists of seven vertebrae. All cervical vertebrae, except the first, have a body and processes. At the first vertebra the body is absent.

Between all cervical vertebrae, except the first and second, there are elastic intervertebral disks, performing the function of shock absorbers.

Disks consist of a soft pulpous core and a rigid fibrous ring, which holds the nucleus, not allowing it to bulge.

Each vertebra, except the first, has articular processes that connect with articular processes of other vertebrae, forming small facet joints. In addition, the cervical vertebrae have transverse processes with holes through which the vertebral arteries pass.

The spine is strengthened by ligaments and muscles. One of the large ligaments (anterior longitudinal ligament) is located on the front surface of the vertebral bodies.

With the development of cervical spondylosis, the fibrous ring partially loses its stiffness, and the pressure-bearing pulpous nucleus is protruded toward the anterior longitudinal ligament. Plots of ossification appear in the ligamentous area.

Over time, bone growths form on the anterior and lateral surfaces of the vertebrae.

The rate of progression of pathological conditions is increasing. Formed gross anatomical disorders: a decrease in the height of intervertebral discs, limited mobility and ankylosis of small joints.

Possible compression of the nerve roots and stenosis of the spinal canal, accompanied by the development of neurological symptoms.

In most cases, the main cause of cervical spondylosis is age-related changes in metabolism, natural aging of cells and tissues of the human body.

Early development of spondylosis is promoted by large single (for example, compression fracture of the cervical vertebrae) or minor multiple injuries of the spine in the cervical region.

The likelihood of early onset and rapid progression of spondylosis increases in metabolic disorders, as a result of which calcium salts are strongly deposited in the cervical spine.

Hormonal disorders, hypothermia and chronic infections are important.

A separate group of reasons should be attributed to the circumstances in which there is a prolonged non-physiological load on the cervical spine. Among such circumstances include posture disorders, scoliosis and strengthened cervical lordosis.

Most often cervical spondylosis develops among mental workers, people who perform professional duties in one static stance, and people with a low-active lifestyle (often in patients with cervical spondylosis, a combination of these factors). Forced position of the head when working on a computer, behind a microscope or a typewriter creates an excessive load on certain parts of the cervical spine. And weak muscles are not able to compensate this load.

Symptoms of cervical spondylosis

Patients with isolated spondylosis, not accompanied by a decrease in the height of the intervertebral disc, may not present any complaints for a long time.

When joining other diseases of the spine and the progression of anatomical disorders, local blunt aching or pulling pain that intensifies after exercise and weakens or disappears after prolonged recreation.

The patient begins to spare the neck while moving, trying to turn not only the head, but also the body.

Patients are concerned about the inability to concentrate the sight, the flashing of flies, tinnitus and hearing impairment. As the pathology progresses, the pain syndrome becomes longer and more intense.

Later the pains acquire a permanent character and do not disappear even after sleep.

Because of pain and disruption of normal anatomical relationships between individual elements of the spine, the neck muscles are in constant tension.

Spasm of the neck muscles helps to limit the movements of the cervical region and eventually becomes the cause of neck pain.

With further aggravation of pathological changes, neurologic symptoms may appear, caused by compression of the nerve roots (radiculitis) and stenosis of the spinal canal (compression myelopathy). There may be weakness of the muscles, a violation of the sensitivity of the upper and lower extremities and pain radiating to the back, shoulders and hands.

Examination of a patient suffering from cervical spondylosis includes the definition of neck mobility, neurological examination (check of reflexes, sensitivity and movements), as well as additional research.

The most accessible method of instrumental diagnosis is the radiography of the cervical spine. If necessary, appoint a CT of the spine, with which you can examine in detail all the dense structures of the neck. To assess the condition of soft tissues, MRI of the spine is used.

Nerve conduction studies are performed by electromyography.

Previously, myelography was used to detect stenosis of the spinal canal - X-ray contrast study, which contrast fluid or air was injected into the vertebral canal by lumbar puncture, and then a series was made pictures. Currently, this technique is gradually losing its importance due to the appearance of CT and MRI. These methods make it possible to obtain the same data, but have no side effects and are much more easily tolerated by patients.

Treatment of cervical spondylosis

Treatment of cervical spondylosis is carried out by vertebrologists, neurologists and specialists in traumatology and orthopedics.

The main goals of the treatment are elimination of pain syndrome, improvement of local circulation, preservation of mobility of the cervical spine, restoration of normal anatomical relationships between individual elements of the spine and slowing of degenerative-dystrophic processes in the tissue intervertebral discs.

Patients are prescribed chondroprotectors and anti-inflammatory drugs. With an intense pain syndrome, analgesics are used, with severe spasms of the neck muscles - muscle relaxants.

Patients who have to stay in a forced position for a long time are advised to use an elastic collar to reduce the burden on the cervical spine.

In the absence of contraindications, prescribe manual therapy and gentle massage. Categorically contraindicated crude massage techniques and independent massage, conducted by a layman.

In severe pain caused by compression of the nerve roots, blockade of the affected area is performed (paravertebral blockades and blockages of the arcuate joints). Surgical treatment is required very rarely.

Traumatologists and neuropathologists refer patients to the operation by combining several pathological processes (for example, spondylosis and severe spondylarthrosis), inefficiency of conservative treatment, as well as in the presence of progressive neurologic symptoms, indicative of stenosis of the spinal canal and compression nerve roots.

Spinal surgery is performed by vertebrologists or neurosurgeons.

A source: http://www.krasotaimedicina.ru/diseases/traumatology/cervical-spondylosis

Cervical spondylosis: causes, symptoms, treatment methods

In modern medicine, spondylosis of the cervical spine is very common, especially among elderly patients.

This ailment is accompanied by a gradual degeneration of the bone and cartilaginous structures of the vertebrae, which as a result can lead to unpleasant complications.

So why does such a disease occur? What methods of treatment does modern medicine offer? Answers to these questions will be of interest to many readers.

What is spondylosis?

Spondylosis is a disease that occurs against the background of degeneration of tissues, so it is most common in elderly patients (over 55).

The fact is that with age, the bony and cartilaginous elements of the vertebrae wear out, they gradually lose their flexibility, stability and mobility.

And against the background of such changes, the formation of bone growths, osteophytes - this is how the body reacts to the loss of mobility and elasticity.

The formation of such neoplasms not only worsens the quality of life, but can also lead to a mass of complications, since these structures can squeeze the spinal roots or even the spinal cord.

It should be noted that this ailment can affect any part of the spine, but according to statistics, most often in patients diagnosed with cervical, as well as cervicothoracic spondylosis. The fact is that the cervical spine has certain anatomical features that make it the most susceptible to such a disease.

For example, between the skull and the first three vertebrae, there are no cartilaginous discs. In addition, this department of the spine is characterized by a relatively low strength, narrowness of the intervertebral openings (through which the nerve roots exit), high mobility.

The main causes of the disease

Spondylosis of the cervical spine, as mentioned above, develops against the backdrop of age-related changes. In addition, there is a gender - according to statistics, this disease is much more likely to affect men.

On the other hand, this disease often develops against a background of more serious problems. For example, it can often be an osteochondrosis.

To the list of causes can also be attributed to hypothermia. The disease often develops against a background of prolonged static loads on the cervical region, which is observed, for example, in people with sedentary work. Also, spondylosis develops as a result of inflammation of the joints, hypodynamia.

Spondylosis of the cervical spine: symptoms

It is worth noting that the disease for quite some time can proceed without serious, noticeable symptoms. Nevertheless, spondylosis of the cervical spine can significantly reduce the quality of life. His main symptom is pain and discomfort.

Soreness can have a different degree of severity. Often, patients complain of pain in the neck and neck, although it can often extend to the ears and eyes.

Discomfort is most pronounced in the mornings, as well as with prolonged exposure in a static position. Sometimes people wake up at night, because they can not find a comfortable position for the head.

These, of course, affect the quality of sleep and emotional state.

Other symptoms of spondylosis include the limitation of mobility, which is particularly pronounced when the head turns. If osteophytes are pressed against nerve endings or blood vessels, headaches, dizziness, muscle weakness and tingling at the fingertips can occur.

Modern diagnostic methods

If you have any symptoms that worry you, call a doctor as soon as possible. In order for a specialist to diagnose cervical spondylosis, several examinations will be necessary.

First of all, an x-ray examination of the spine is performed - in the pictures one can see formed osteophytes, as well as a change in the normal height of intervertebral discs.

If additional information is needed, a CT scan is performed, with which you can detect the presence of spinal stenosis and even determine its size.

Only after a thorough examination and receiving the results of the examination the doctor will be able to build the most effective and safe treatment regimen.

What is the danger of the disease?

It is worth noting that in the absence of treatment, spinal fusion of the cervical spine can lead to a mass of complications. This is due to the gradual growth of bone growths, which begin to squeeze the surrounding tissue.

For example, if an osteophyte clamps a blood vessel, there is a disturbance of blood flow to the tissues or even the brain.

This can lead to constant headaches, dizziness, sudden jumps in blood pressure, visual impairment, hypoxia of a particular area of ​​the brain.

In addition, the proliferation of osteophytes often leads to compression of the nerve roots or spinal cord, which is fraught with a violation of the sensitivity of the limbs, stenosis, constant pain, which do not subside even in a state of complete rest. That is why, in the presence of the slightest suspicion of the disease, it is worthwhile to seek medical help.

Cervical Spondylosis and Medication

Unfortunately, to date there are no drugs that can get rid of this problem. Nevertheless, drug therapy is still necessary, although its main goal is to eliminate pain.

Patients are often prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, in particular "Ibuprofen "Nurofen "Diclofenac etc.

These medications can be in the form of tablets, or in the form of warming, analgesic ointments. If there is a persistent spasm of the neck muscles, it is advisable to use muscle relaxants.

With severe pain, especially chronic pain, patients take analgesics.

Other types of therapy for spondylosis

Treatment of spondylosis of the cervical spine is a long process. Therapy is made individually for each patient. The main goal in this case is to prevent the development of complications, as well as unloading the structures of the cervical department.

In the initial stages of the disease, patients are recommended therapeutic gymnastics. Also positive on the health condition will affect swimming.

A reasonable physical load and regular exercises will help to strengthen the muscles of the neck, back and chest, align the posture and, accordingly, eliminate the burden from the cervical region.

There are also possible sessions with the manual therapist, but with spondylosis it is necessary to work very carefully.

The scheme of therapy can include acupuncture and massage, which will help relieve tension, while strengthening the muscles.

Surgical intervention is shown only in the most difficult cases, for example, when there is a violation of normal blood circulation, compression of the nerve roots or stenosis. In such cases, the doctor recommends removing the bony growths.

A source: https://www.syl.ru/article/193355/new_spondil-z-sheynogo-otdela-pozvonochnika-sheynyiy-spondil-z-prichinyi-simptomyi-metodyi-lecheniya