Cervical osteochondrosis in women. Signs, Symptoms and Treatment, blood pressure, exercises, medication

Cervical osteochondrosis - fairly common disease that leads to serious complications. Women pathology develops several times more often. This is due to the structure of the female body - the female shoulder muscles are less developed and does not allow sufficiently to maintain the cervical spine.

What is cervical osteochondrosis

Cervical osteochondrosis - a degenerative disease of the cervical spineAt which the destructive changes in the structure of the cartilage and intervertebral discs.

When osteochondrosis vertebrae and intervertebral discs, which have a soft texture, gradually ossify and become solid, they formed bony growths - osteophytes. Because of that deteriorating cushioning effect, discs and vertebrae begin to rub against each other causing compression of blood vessels and nerve fibers.

Types of cervical degenerative disc disease in women

Cervical osteochondrosis women divided into 2 types:

1. cervical diskalgiya - fragment damaged vertebrae and intervertebral discs irritate nerve receptors, causing pain and crunch while rotating and tilting the head.
2. Discogenic lesion of spinal roots - higher degree of pathology, when osteophytes compress spinal roots, contributing to the development of neurological symptoms.

Stage and grade of cervical degenerative disc disease in women

All are 4 stages of any kind of degenerative disc disease:

1. The first stage - worsening food intervertebral disc nucleus, the nucleus comes dehydration. This leads to cracks in the fibrous ring and a decrease in disc height. In the first stage of osteoarthritis symptoms first appear, but many patients ignore them, and pathology progresses.
2. The second stage - there is a "blurring" of the intervertebral disc, which leads to the fact that the distance between the vertebrae decreases begin to sag spinal muscles and ligaments.
3. The third stage - begins to form a protrusion, when the intervertebral disc is ejected outside of the spinal column. This entails the development of a hernia, arthrosis and leads to subluxations of the vertebrae.
4. The fourth stage - on hardened vertebrae begin to form osteophytes that contribute pinching vessels, nerves and other structures.

Symptoms of cervical degenerative disc disease in women

The main symptoms are cervical osteoarthritis pain in the neck. Severity of pain depends on the stage of the disease.

Also, patients concerned about the following common symptoms:

1. Soreness in the shoulders and arms.
2. Crunch by tilting or turning the head.
3. Shortness of movement of the neck, a feeling of heaviness.
4. The DC voltage of the neck muscles, and fatigue in this department.
5. Periodic throbbing pain in the neck, neck, shoulders.

Symptoms associated with dysfunction of the upper extremities

Cervical osteochondrosis is causing disruption to the hands, since they are directly connected with the neck.

Patients present:

1. limb numbness.
2. Tingling in the hands.
3. The weakness of the hands.
4. Sudden "shooting" pain in the neck area.
5. Shortness of movement of the arms, hands, fingers.
6. sensitivity deterioration of the palms.

Also, patients are often cold hands constantly, regardless of weather conditions.

Symptoms associated with blood circulation

Cervical osteochondrosis leads to disruption of cerebral blood flow, which can lead to the following symptoms:

1. Constant feeling of fatigue.
2. Weakness.
3. Frequent headaches and migraines.
4. The sharp deterioration in visual acuity and hearing.
5. Ringing and tinnitus.
6. Blackout.
7. Dizziness and fainting (especially during sharp cornering or inclination of the head).
8. Frequent nausea.
9. Sudden jumps in blood pressure.

With the development of the disease in the patient's deteriorating cognitive function and develop serious neurological problems.

The patient becomes apathetic, nervous and petulant, he may experience unwarranted aggressive outbursts and mood swings. Due to insufficient blood supply to the brain deteriorate memory and attention, reduced mental capacity.

Women may have problems with the skin of the face and neck. Because of poor nutrition deteriorates circulation of the epidermis thereby generate wrinkles, sagging skin.

Causes of cervical degenerative disc disease in women

Cervical osteochondrosis in women occurs after 30-35 years, when the body's age-related changes begin to occur. One of the main causes of degenerative diseases - menopause.

During this period the female body is a sharp hormonal failure, whereby the metabolism, food and tissues deteriorates develop other problems. doctors also highlights other reasons for the development of osteoarthritis:

congenital

1. Genetic predisposition to osteochondrosis (if in the family there were cases of degenerative disc disease, there is a high probability that the descendants of the disease also occur).
2. Congenital neck injury and spinal column.
3. The instability of the cervical vertebrae.

organic

1. Injuries to the neck and spine.
2. Incorrect posture, scoliosis.
3. Flatfoot.
4. Diseases associated with metabolic disorders.
5. Poor circulation in the cervical department.
6. Endocrine diseases.
7. Infectious diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
8. Inflammatory disease in the neck.
9. Rheumatism.

external

1. Malnutrition (shortage of vitamins and minerals in the diet, a large amount of fat and high-carb meal).
2. Poor environmental conditions in the area of ​​residence.
3. Sedentary lifestyle (in this case the neck is always in the same position, thus deteriorating the power of the vertebrae and developing low back pain).
4. Permanent lifting weights.
5. Excessive load on the cervical spine.
6. The static load on the cervical spine, neck constant finding in the same position.
7. Overcooling of the cervical spine.
8. Sleep on uncomfortable or incorrectly matched cushion.
9. Constant vibration exposure (when working on the tractor, big cars, machine tools).

Most often, cervical osteochondrosis occurs in women who are office workers. Permanent presence in the same posture, a sedentary lifestyle contribute to the development of the disease.

When to see a doctor

Neck - the most vulnerable spot of the spine, so consult your doctor to be at the first symptoms of osteoarthritis - if the pan and tilt the neck starts to hurt and crackle, and the headaches began to appear more frequently.

Diagnosis of cervical degenerative disc disease begins with a visit to an orthopedic doctor, who will examine your neck, gather medical history and give referrals to other specialists: a neurologist, vertebrology surgeon.

Diagnosis of cervical degenerative disc disease in women

The following methods are used to diagnose degenerative disc disease:

X-ray	ultrasound	CT	MRI
The principle of	Therapy area X-rayed, which remain in the solid structures and let you see the damage in bone, cartilage and joints.	It helps detect damage in the soft tissue structure. In the case of osteochondrosis ultrasound shows the presence of inflammation in the surrounding tissues, which can cause the development of osteoarthritis.	In computer tomography using X-rays, which are superposed in layers.	Magnetic resonance imaging with a magnetic field shows the slightest damage to the structure of the organs and anatomical structures.
where to spend	In the clinics and private clinics.	In the clinics and private clinics.	In private clinics.	In private clinics.
cost of	Free - in clinics; 200 rubles - in private clinics.	Free - in clinics; 500 rubles - in private clinics.	From 3000 rubles.	From 5000 rubles.

X-ray and ultrasound diagnostic methods are basic pathology, they can be seen only superficial damage in the structure of the vertebrae, the intervertebral discs and consider using these methods impossible.

Therefore, you must undergo an MRI for a deeper diagnosis - this is the most efficient and accurate method for detecting abnormalities of internal organs, bones, joints and other structures.

Also, in many cases, appoint myelography - this procedure is necessary to detect abnormalities of the spinal cord and intervertebral hernia. The method consists in the introduction of contrast medium into the cervical area and the translucence of her X-rays - the contrast will show the presence of pathology.

In the process of diagnosing cervical osteoarthritis can be detected and related pathologies.

Cervical osteochondrosis is often associated with other diseases of the musculoskeletal system. In women during menopause may develop osteoporosis, so will also need to donate blood for analysis of calcium ions in the body.

Methods of treatment of cervical degenerative disc disease in women

osteochondrosis Treatment is complex, it involves the use of drugs and folk techniques, exercise and other methods.

medication

Cervical osteochondrosis in women subject to compulsory comprehensive drug treatment. For the treatment of the following types of medicines:

Anti-inflammatory and analgesic

These drugs belong to the group of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). They contribute to the relief of the inflammatory process, the elimination of pain.

The most effective drugs of NSAIDs are:

1. Ibuprofen. Available as tablets, suspension, gel for external use, ointments. The course of treatment is 10-14 days. Price - 35-100 rubles, depending on the type of drug..
2. Diclofenac. Product: tablets, gel for external use, ointment, rectal suppositories. The course of treatment - no more than 14 days. The pharmacy drug costs between 40 rubles., Depending on the release form.

chondroprotectors

Normalize metabolism in tissues, promote tissue regeneration of cartilaginous joints and vertebrae. Also have a moderate analgesic effect.

1. Don. It is produced in the form of tablets. Lasting effect is achieved after 6 weeks of preparation. The cost in pharmacies - from 1300 rubles. 60 tablets per pack.
2. Teraflex. Product form - capsule. Price per pack of 60 tablets is about 2000 rubles., One package is enough for 4-6 weeks of treatment.

antispasmodics

Improve tissue permeability, relieve muscle tension.

The most effective drugs in this group are:

1. Mydocalm. The release form - tablets and solution for intramuscular injection. The cost in pharmacies from 450 rubles, depending on the release form. The course of treatment is at least 4 weeks.
2. Sirdalud. The release form - tablets. The course of treatment is at least 4 weeks. The drug is placed within 300-400 rubles.

vasodilators

Promote vasodilation and better tissue nutrition. The most effective vasodilating drug is Aktovegin - it is available in tablet form and a solution for intramuscular injection. therapy means data rate is not less than 4 weeks. Price in pharmacies from 1400 rubles per pack.

Traditional methods

The use of folk methods helps to achieve a significant improvement in the patient's condition.

For the therapy using compresses, decoctions and infusions:

1. Compress of potato and honey. One fresh potato rubbed on a fine grater and mix in equal proportions with honey. The resulting mixture was cast as a compress to the affected area and leave for 15-20 min. This method will help to get rid of neck pain and improve circulation in this department. Make a compress can be no more than 2 times per week.
2. Compress with kerosene. A piece of linen cloth moisten in kerosene and gently rub with soap. The fabric attached to the neck, roll up with cling film and leave for 1-2 hours. This wrap can be done not more than 1 time per week - it warms the neck, increases blood circulation and relieves pain. If during the procedure, there is a strong burning sensation, it is necessary to remove the compress and neck with water.
3. Infusion of cranberry leaves. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect, it normalizes metabolism in the body. 10 g of leaves pour hot water (not boiling water) and let set for 2 hr., Then filter. Infusion take 2 tbsp. l. 3 times a day. The course of treatment - 2-3 weeks.
4. A decoction of birch leaves and cranberries. Boil 1 cup water, add to boiling water for half hour. l. birch leaves and cranberries and simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes. After that, leave to infuse for 30 minutes, drain. Take the necessary means for 3 days at 4-5. Decoction helps to eliminate pain and improve motor activity of the neck.
5. Barberry tincture. It helps to eliminate pain and relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis. 25 g of barberry bark or root pour 10 ml of vodka or spirit and infuse for 3 days. Take 30 drops 3 times a day inside. You can also make compresses with tincture - a piece of cloth to moisten in the solution and apply to the affected area for 15-20 minutes.

Folk therapy helps only in conjunction with other treatments - gymnastics, medicines, massage. Also prior to use public money to consult a doctor to avoid complications.

Gymnastics

Physiotherapy (physical therapy) helps improve motor activity of the cervical spine, to get rid of muscle tension, enhance blood circulation and nutrition of tissues in this area. The complex of gymnastic exercises prescribed by a doctor or exercise physiologist, depending on the degree of pathology and complications.

Also, there are exercises that allowed all:

1. Sit or stand up straight on a flat surface. Attach base palm vertically forehead and the forehead to press strongly on the palm, straining the muscles of the neck, within 7-10 seconds. Repeat the exercise 3 times. After that, do the same exercise, putting his hand to the back of the head horizontally.
2. Make a previous exercise, putting his hand in turn to the left and right temple.
3. Straighten your back and straighten his shoulders. Slowly turn your head all the way to the right, then to the left. Repeat the cycle 5-7 times.
4. Slowly tilt your head back and forth. During the execution should feel slight tension of the neck muscles. Repeat 5-7 times.
5. You need to tilt the head back slightly, and then drag the right ear to your right shoulder, then his left ear to your left shoulder alternately. Run for 5 times on each side.

These exercises can be performed during a break at work. It must be remembered that the movement should be smooth and slow, otherwise there is the risk of neck injury. If during the execution of the pain is felt, the exercise must be stopped.

Other methods

1. Physiotherapy. Physiotherapy help eliminate pain, enhance blood circulation in the neck area, increase tissue permeability. Most often used for the treatment of osteoarthritis magnetic therapy, electrophoresis, laser therapy. For effective results, you must wait at least 10 procedures, and then pass physical therapy 1-2 times a year.
2. Massage. Manual impact on the problem area reduces muscle tension, improves blood circulation and metabolism in tissues, reduces pain. Massage should be done skilled. therapeutic massage course is 10-15 procedures, you can also do easy self-massage at home.
3. Manual therapy. Manual therapy similar to massage, but has a more profound effect. With it, you can reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis and back vertebrae in place. Also, this method improves blood and lymph circulation, adjusts the motor activity of the neck.
4. Acupuncture (reflexotherapy). This method is not only aimed at the treatment of degenerative disc disease, but also reduced neurological complications. Reflex therapy improves blood circulation and lymph flow, improves muscle sensitivity eliminates pain syndrome.

possible complications

If you ignore the symptoms of osteoarthritis, not to comply with the doctor's orders, to self-medicate, it can develop serious complications:

• intervertebral hernia and protrusion;
• kyphosis;
• salt deposits in the intervertebral spaces;
• compression of the spinal cord and blood vessels;

• pinched nerve;
• circulatory disorders in the brain;
• neurological disorders: behavioral disorders, speech and coordination disorders, vascular disease, cognitive impairment.

Prevention of cervical degenerative disc disease in women

Cervical osteochondrosis in women could be prevented if you follow preventive measures:

1. As much as possible to move to avoid physical inactivity. Optional hard to do sports three times a week - enough to do morning exercises, walk more regularly swim, ride a bike, do yoga. Any physical activity is good for the body and contributes to the prevention of osteoarthritis and other musculoskeletal disorders.
2. If the professional activity is associated with a permanent seat, then every 45-60 minutes necessary to perform a warm-up for the restoration of blood flow in the cervical area. During operation, you can not slouch and greatly straining the neck.
3. To limit the load on the neck and the collar section. If necessary, lifting weights to avoid jerks, and you can not put heavy objects on the neck and shoulders.
4. Sleep on orthopedic mattress and pillow choose the correct - it should not be too high or too flat. For the prevention of cervical degenerative disc disease useful juniper pillows or cushions. They help to normalize blood circulation in the cervical area and the elimination of painful sensations.
5. Avoid hypothermia cervical spine, as this can lead to inflammation and tissue malnutrition.
6. If scoliosis or kyphosis (especially cervical) wear a special orthopedic corset. It helps reduce the load on the spine and eliminate muscle tension.
7. Undergo regular massage courses - 1-2 times a year.
8. Time to identify inflammatory and infectious diseases musculoskeletal system. They are characterized by the occurrence of severe pain, redness and puffiness tissues, general weakness.
9. Eat right. Normalize the diet, adding a more plant foods, dairy products.

Cervical osteochondrosis - a dangerous disease which, if untreated, can lead to serious consequences. In women, after 35 years at high risk of developing the disease, so it is necessary to monitor the state of the organism.

Useful video of cervical osteochondrosis in women, its symptoms and treatments

Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of cervical degenerative disc disease:

Physiotherapy with cervical osteochondrosis: