Cervical osteochondrosis (SCD) is a degenerative disease of the spine that affects the intervertebral discs. In the early stages, it is difficult to diagnose, it is asymptomatic. In the future, neglect of treatment can lead to a decrease in the quality of active life, constant pain, a feeling of stiffness in the head and neck.
The appearance of the disease is influenced by many factors, but among others, the following are distinguished:
- low level of physical fitness and weakness of the musculoskeletal system;
- a sedentary lifestyle - prolonged driving of a car or computer in one position adversely affects the cervical vertebrae and muscles;
- disorders and injuries of the musculoskeletal system, eg flat feet and scoliosis;
- being overweight or pregnant;
- metabolic disorders.
There are many reasons for osteochondrosis in the neck. When diagnosing and treating, each case is considered by a specialist individually.
Is it possible to COMPLETELY get rid of the disease?
Important!The success of SCH treatment depends on the timeliness of the diagnosis. Only a specialist can determine the degree of the disease and prescribe a method of therapy based on the patient's complaints, visual examination and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Cervical osteochondrosis is classified according to the severity of the disease:
- In the first stage, the patient experiences sharp pain, reminiscent of brief electrical shocks. Swelling appears, rarely, numbness of the tongue.
- The second stageis characterized by the onset of head drop syndrome. The patient, in order to experience a lesser amplitude of pain, constantly supports the head, leaning forward. The motor activity of the neck is affected, bags appear under the eyes.
- The third stageis the most difficult. Neck and shoulder mobility is affected. The patient suffers from constant headaches and muscle aches. Hands go numb, make noise in ears.
Complete cure is only possible in the first and second stages of the disease with competent diagnosis and complex treatment. But you need to understand that after therapy you will need to change your lifestyle to a more active one, include proper nutrition in the diet, constantly monitor your posture and neck position.
The treatment process from diagnosis to full recovery in the first stage of SCH takes approximately 2 weeks. In the second stage, the treatment time increases to a month and a half. Complete healing can be achieved with the help of complex therapy, including taking pills, physical therapy exercises, physical therapy, massages, healthy eating, and the use of a special bandage.
How to get rid of SHOH yourself at home?
Self-medication is dangerous. Especially when it comes to cervical osteochondrosis in an advanced stage. It is possible to get rid of it at home only in the first stage, in the second - only under the guidance of a doctor.
In addition to medications prescribed by a specialist, traditional medicine will help to combat pain and stiffness in the neck area.
Important!When choosing a prescription for SHOX treatment, it is imperative to take into account the limitations and characteristics of the body.
Proven recipes for pain relief:
1. Potato and honey compress
Large (raw) potato tuber needs to be grated on a coarse grater. Squeeze the juice and mix with the same amount of honey. Mix everything well. Apply to the painful area of the neck for 45 minutes, covering the upper part with a soft cloth twice a week.
2. Paraffin application
Melt a small amount of paraffin or wax in a water bath. Let cool to room temperature. Apply to the affected area. Let cool. Requests must be made twice a week.
3. Herb Collection
You will need dried herbs: yarrow, dandelion leaves, chamomile flowers, calendula, thyme, St. John's wort (1 tablespoon each). Mix the herbs well. To brew beer, you need 2 tablespoons of the collection per liter of boiling water. Prepare in a thermos. take three times a day before meals for 3 weeks.
Important!It is forbidden to treat the spinal area with compounds that irritate the skin. It is worth remembering that the proximity of the brain implies the careful use of various types of popular recipes for the treatment of SHOX.
Gymnastics and healthy exercises to promote recovery
At home, therapeutic exercises will help to cope with cervical osteochondrosis. It is a mandatory element.
All movements should be smooth, without jerking or jerky movements. In this case, excessive diligence will only hurt. Inventory is not required.
Exercises for the treatment of SHOC:
- alternate neck movement - forward following the chin, backward - behind the back of the head;
- turning the neck to the right and left, turning the head;
- raising the shoulders to the level of the ears;
- pulling the chin to the chest, then the chin moves up, the chin tilts back.
Each exercise should be repeated 8 to 10 times. Regular gymnastics helps reduce the load on the spine, improve blood circulation and increase the space between discs. Over time, the muscles are toned, the frequency of pain decreases.
Hint!These exercises can also be used as prophylaxis for diseases of the cervicosacral spine.
Will massage help cure the ailment?
Massage is effective in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis only in combination therapy. This is one of the most effective ways to relieve pain without the use of drugs, which do not always have a beneficial effect on the body.
The massage technique is selected for a specific patient, taking into account their complaints about the location of the pain. As a general rule, to improve the situation, 8 to 10 sessions will be needed, 3 per week. In addition, it should be done for preventive purposes, 1 session per week.
Therapeutic massage relieves pain, strengthens neck muscles, improves blood circulation and relieves spasms.
Important!Medical massage is prohibited for people for the following reasons: cancer, hypertension, fever, inflammation in the body, open wounds on the neck.
What else can you do at home to speed up your recovery?
Controlling the position of the head, shoulders and lower back during work, rest and sleep helps to quickly eliminate cervical osteochondrosis at home. It is necessary to try to keep the back straight, not to overload the neck muscles with static forward bends.
The use of a special collar will be helpful during treatment. It completely removes the load from the intervertebral discs, allowing them to fully recover.
It is recommended to sleep and rest in a horizontal position on your back. For greater effect, it is worth buying an orthopedic mattress and pillow.
Conclusion
Cervical osteochondrosis is an unpleasant disease that negatively affects the quality of life. Timely diagnosis and competent comprehensive treatment contribute not only to the elimination of painful symptoms, but also to the ability to completely cure the disease.