Remedies for cervical osteochondrosis. Drug treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine. B vitamins

Osteochondrosis cervical region the spine is best corrected in the initial stage of formation before the appearance of syndromes vertebral artery and cardialgia, accompanied by chronic headaches and pain in the area of ​​the shoulder blades and heart. OSOP - this is the abbreviation of this disease; over time, it leads to a change in the overall structure of the spinal column due to the active compensatory growth of connective, fibrillary and bone tissues, therefore, treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine must begin as early as possible and be carried out comprehensively with an emphasis on neutralizing inflammatory processes and pain relief. Therapeutic strategy the first stage is aimed at neutralizing pain, the second stage is to activate blood supply and metabolic processes in the affected areas of the spine; at the third stage, physiotherapeutic and manual techniques are indicated.

  1. If osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is in acute stage accompanied by severe pain, drug paravertebral blockade is indicated using local administration of novocaine, lidocaine, corticosteroids (cortisone, diprospan) in order to relieve muscle tension in the area of ​​the spinal motion segment (SMS) and reduce pain.
  2. Combinations of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, diclofenac), antispasmodics (mydocalm), analgesics (spazmalgon) and vitamin complexes (group B, a nicotinic acid).
  3. As local therapy, ointments are prescribed - chondroprotectors (Chondroxide) and products with NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory components) - Voltaren, Ketonal.
  4. Reflexology procedures, electrical stimulation, manual therapy, massages, and a set of therapeutic exercises are effective.
  5. If osteochondrosis of the cervical spine lasts for years, the disease is in advanced stage and a herniated intervertebral disc is diagnosed, surgical intervention is possible.

Conservative treatment of cervical osteochondrosis

Treatment cervical osteochondrosis It is most often carried out using conservative techniques. It is also possible to use anti-inflammatory and painkillers, chondoprotectors, as well as medications that help relieve swelling and tension in the muscles. However, medications only help to cope with intense pain. Physiotherapeutic treatment of cervical osteochondrosis helps to get rid of it, if not forever, then at least for a long time. The most commonly used methods include:

  • Acupuncture;
  • Massotherapy;
  • Electrophoresis;
  • Laser therapy;
  • Manual therapy methods.

As a rule, this treatment of cervical osteochondrosis takes about two weeks.

Drug treatment

Osteochondrosis cervical vertebra can be treated quite successfully with timely application see a doctor and prescribe a set of measures, which includes medications, physiotherapeutic and preventive methods therapies such as physical therapy, massage, acupuncture. Main tasks of providing medical care are to relieve pain and restore normal functioning cervical vertebrae.

Cervical osteochondrosis treatment with medication involves the following:

  • Anti-inflammatory drugs - non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs - diclofenac, indomethacin, ibuprofen or piroxicam;
  • Anesthetic drugs - spasmalgon, ketanov, analgin;
  • Myelorelaxants – mydocalm, sirdalud, trental;
  • Chondroprotectors – aflutop, teraflex;
  • Vitamin complex – B vitamins and nicotinic acid;
  • External means irritating effect– Finalgon, Apisatron;
  • External agents with regenerating, chondroprotective properties - Chondroxide, Traumeel S;
  • External agents containing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory components - diclofenac, voltaren.

The disease of civilization - osteochondrosis of the cervical spine develops at the first stage asymptomatically, which is why it is insidious. However, when neurological and cardiological symptoms appear, such as persistent headache and pain radiating under the scapula to the heart area, osteochondrosis of the cervical vertebra requires immediate and effective treatment. The first aid can be taking antispasmodics (Spazmalgon, Baralgin) and applying an ointment containing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory components (Indomethacin, Diclofenac), ointments with a local irritating effect (Apizatron or Finalgon) will also help. In case of acute pain syndrome, it is impossible to perform popular physical therapy techniques and massage; it is much more advisable to consult a vertebrologist, where they may prescribe an anesthetic paravertebral blockade that relieves pain, and then a medicinal complex, including anti-inflammatory drugs (Diclofenac, Ibuprofen), decongestants, myelorelaxants (Baclofen or Mydocalm), vitamin complex(B1, B2, B6, B12) and physiotherapeutic procedures. Only after completing a course of treatment is it possible to perform a complex of physical therapy and preventive massage sessions.

Drugs for the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis

Therapy for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine should be as comprehensive as possible, aimed at relieving several symptomatic areas at once. Pronounced pain syndrome, neurological symptoms, cardialgia, exacerbation of all the symptoms of existing underlying diseases - this pathological “union” requires a careful selection of methods, methods and means that alleviate the vertebrogenic symptom (dizziness), and pain in the heart area, and swelling, and spasms muscles in order to restore the patient’s ability to work and increase vital activity. Drugs for the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis are divided into the following categories:

  • Analgesics that can relieve pain are ketanov, analgin, dexalgyl, less often - tramal;
  • To carry out an epidural blockade, lidocaine, novocaine or its mixture with corticosteroids (hydrocortisone, prednisolone) is prescribed;
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, oral, injectable forms, local application– diclofenac, movalis, ibuprofen, indomethacin;
  • Antispasmodics, myelorelaxants – mydocalm, papaverine, no-shpa;
  • Means that reduce vestibular disorders, - betaserk;
  • Vasodilators - vinpocetine, cavinton;
  • Diuretics - diuretics to neutralize swelling in pinched tissues - Lasix, furosemide;

Chondroprotective drugs – alflutop, chondroxide, teraflex.

Treatment of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis

Any type of osteochondrosis - cervical, thoracic or lumbar - can be treated faster and more effectively with early stages diseases. Since osteochondrosis is often asymptomatic and long-term, it often occurs in a combined form (cervical together with thoracic), so staging is very important correct diagnosis to assign a specific complex therapeutic measures acceptance. Treatment of cervical-thoracic osteochondrosis involves three stages of action:

  1. Therapy with medications aimed at relieving pain, relaxing damaged, tense muscles, improving blood supply to the vessels of the brain and spinal column - non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Diclofenac, Ibuprofen), analgesics, myelorelaxants (Mydocalm, Baclofen), irritating ointments - Finalgon, Apisatron.
  2. Physiotherapeutic methods that strengthen drug therapy– electrical stimulation with microcurrents, UHF, acupuncture, acupuncture, manual therapy course.
  3. Preventive methods that neutralize relapses - a complex of physical therapy, therapeutic massage.

It is also recommended to follow a gentle diet, excluding salty and spicy foods, to minimize swelling and improve metabolism.

Treatment of dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis

Vestibular neurological symptoms are characteristic of a complex of signs of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, this is due to the fact that as a result of compression of the vertebral artery, the main blood supply to the brain is disrupted. Most often, dizziness appears when bending sharply, after sleep, when turning the head, and also often among vestibular symptoms There is a decrease in hearing and visual acuity. Treatment of dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis consists, first of all, of restoring normal blood supply and relaxing tense muscles of the cervical spine. Nootropic drugs such as oxybral, cinnarizine, fesam are effective as drugs that activate blood flow; betahistine dihydrochloride (Betaserc) is prescribed to improve microcirculation; myelorelaxants that relieve vascular spasms - Sirdalud, Mydocalm - are effective. In addition, dizziness caused by osteochondrosis of the cervical vertebrae requires adherence to a gentle diet, excluding acute, salty food and use strong drinks– coffee, alcohol.

Treatment with folk remedies

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine affects more than 80% of the world's population, therefore it is rightfully considered a disease of civilization, since dystrophic lesions of the articular cartilage of the most vulnerable - the cervical vertebrae - are associated with sedentary, sedentary life. If the disease is at an early stage, then in addition to medication, there are also recipes from our ancestors, which are sometimes more effective and safe than drug therapy.

Cervical osteochondrosis treatment folk remedies assumes the following:

Compresses with distracting, irritating properties, improving blood supply - from horseradish leaves, anti-inflammatory compresses - from burdock and cabbage leaves, warming compresses - a mixture of propolis and dry mustard.

Infusions taken orally 3 times a day (1 tablespoon) for two to three weeks - leave 50g of crushed celery root for 12 hours per liter hot water or 50 g of crushed sunflower roots boil in a liter of water for 5 minutes.

Gymnastics

Osteochondrosis of the cervical vertebrae is a disease characteristic of those people who spend 8-10 hours a day sitting at an office desk or computer. The main cause of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine according to WHO (World Health Organization) is sedentary image life, which causes constant static tension, stress on the vertebrae of the lower neck. If the disease has already developed and been diagnosed, the first step, helping to relieve pain and neurological symptoms, is drug therapy, but a course of physical therapy is an integral part of complex treatment. Reasonable load on the neck muscles during the period of remission allows you to strengthen and form a muscle corset to support the intervertebral discs. Gymnastics only strengthens any treatment for cervical osteochondrosis; in addition, it effectively prevents relapses. The therapeutic gymnastic complex is prescribed two to three weeks after completing the main medication course and include isometric (without turns, static) muscle stretching exercises and exercises with turns, head rotations, and arm swings.

Treatment of exacerbations of cervical osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine rarely begins with obvious clinical symptoms; the course of the disease is most often hidden, latent, therefore medical care, as a rule, are provided already when osteochondrosis is accompanied unbearable pain. Exacerbation of cervical osteochondrosis requires complex and intensive treatment, since it should be aimed at quickly relieving pain and neurological symptoms. Most often, during an exacerbation, blockades are prescribed in the form of paravertebral injections of novocaine or its mixture with hydrocortisone; the administration of diprospan is also effective. Effective fixation cervicothoracic region using special corsets or orthoses ( orthopedic collars). After stopping the exacerbation of cervical osteochondrosis, the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is indicated, both orally (orally) and in the form of ointments, gels; manual therapy, physiotherapeutic procedures - myostimulation with microcurrents, electrophoresis, acupuncture, as well as a complex of physical therapy, have a good fixing effect.

How to make treatment of cervical osteochondrosis more effective?

Let's take a closer look at therapeutic massage, which, if performed correctly, you can do at home to get rid of discomfort. In order not to cause harm to yourself, you need to follow a few simple rules:

  • Do not press too hard on your neck and back;
  • All movements must be carried out from top to bottom;

The massage process itself may include the following components:

  • Fixing your hand on your knee, run your fingers from the back of your head to your shoulder;
  • Do the same with the edge of your palm;
  • Make light circular movements along the same path;
  • Knead the bumps behind your ears;
  • Run your fingers along the side of your neck.

This treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is complemented by cupping massage, used for all types of osteochondrosis, as well as radiculitis. This famous folk method helps improve blood circulation and improve muscle condition. In the case of cervical osteochondrosis, it is necessary to make smooth movements from the back of the head to the shoulders, however, without touching the vertebra itself.

All these movements will help you stretch and relax your neck muscles. Their daily use goes well with active recreation and going to the pool or gym. However, if you do not have this opportunity, treatment of cervical osteochondrosis can be carried out at home by performing some of the following exercises:

  • Head nods;
  • Tilts left and right;
  • Moving the head forward and backward without bending;
  • Lying on your stomach, bring your shoulder blades together, raising your head and shoulders;
  • The starting position is the same. Make consistent movements with your arms: forward – to the sides – to the shoulders.
  • Make vertical movements with your shoulders from a sitting position.

Therapeutic sessions should be as relaxing and gentle as possible, without any forceful techniques or painful sensations. Only then will they be beneficial, and the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis will be enhanced if you combine all these exercises with proper nutrition- consumption of all essential vitamins and minerals, the absence of too salty and spicy food in your diet.

In order for the problem of osteochondrosis to be familiar to you only by hearsay, you need to remember the following:

  • The back of your chair should be fairly rigid;
  • Whether you are working or relaxing in front of the TV or computer, do not stay in one position for a long time. Get up periodically and walk around the room;
  • Don't tilt your head too close to a book or monitor. Remember the optimal distance is 30-35 cm.
  • The bed should not be too soft;
  • Even when working or driving, remain calm and do not overexert yourself.

With proper understanding and implementation of all the doctor’s recommendations, treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is a painless and useful task. After all, by doing all the exercises, you will help improve general condition body. A active image never harmed anyone's life!

In case of pathological damage to intervertebral discs arising as a result of dystrophic and degenerative disorders in cartilaginous joints cervical spine, osteochondrosis or intervertebral hernia is formed. This name of the disease comes from the ancient Greek roots, osteon - bone and chondrule - cartilage. Let's consider what this disease is, what are the causes, symptoms and manifestations.

Drug treatment provides a whole range of therapeutic measures to influence the tissue structures of articular segments, caused by various symptomatic signs.

Cause and mechanism of development of articular lesions of the cervical spine

Unfortunately, the first symptoms of dysfunction of the cervical spine begin to appear in a person as early as school age. Hereditary predisposition plays an important role in the cause-and-effect factor in the occurrence of the disease. Aggravation clinical condition in the future, various static and/or dynamic overloads, spinal injuries, consequences of chronic diseases and other components contribute. Other reasons include the following factors:

  • excess body weight;
  • lack of micronutrient nutrition of the vascular beds between the vertebral discs of the cervical spine;
  • weak physical activity or excessive stress on the musculoskeletal system;
  • menopause in women;
  • aging of the body;
  • instability to stressful situations and/or severe nervous tension.

Symptomatic signs of cervical osteochondrosis are:

  • aching and/or nagging pain in the cervical region;
  • muscle spasms leading to numbness;
  • throbbing headache, dizziness and tinnitus;
  • manifestation of cardiovascular or coronary pathology.

More intense symptomatic signs appear with increased physical activity, sudden movements, coughing, and so on. To eliminate the reduction of blood vessels and restore tissue structures, it will be effective to undergo a course of drug treatment for cervical osteochondrosis.

Modern methods of treating articular segments

Complex diagnostics allows not only to determine the degree of damage to segmental areas of the cervical spine, but also to identify hidden forms of pathology. This greatly simplifies the treatment of cervical spine otreochondrosis. Medicines used in treatment represent a significant arsenal of various pharmacological combinations.

The main goal of drug therapy is to eliminate pain syndromes as a result of effects on spinal nerve endings, relieve inflammation in problem areas and prevent further processes of structural destruction of the spine.

The pharmacological agents and medications used for cervical osteochondrosis can be divided into several groups:

If, with cervical osteochondrosis, medication treatment does not bring the desired result, then the joints must be adjusted by surgical intervention.

Indication for surgical treatment is:

  • threat of sequestration, or protrusion of the hernia by 7 mm or more;
  • complete absence muscle activity associated with its atrophy;
  • ineffectiveness of drug therapy over a long period, usually 6-8 months;
  • mechanical compression by a pathological growth, osteophyte.

Stimulation of recovery processes

After relieving pain and inflammatory processes with medication or as a result of surgical adjustment of the joints of the cervical vertebra, it is necessary to carry out restorative work in ligamentous apparatus spine and between its discs. A number of pharmacological medications are provided for this procedure:


How to treat cervical osteochondrosis: frequently asked questions

We asked the head of the Department of Neurosurgery No. 3 in Moscow, vertebrologist, Candidate of Medical Sciences Viktor Vadimovich Rudenko to answer questions related to the treatment of osteochondrosis.

Question: How long can non-steroidal drugs be used in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis?

Answer: Most nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have side effects that negatively affect the gastric mucosa. Therefore, long-term use pharmacological agent in the treatment of osteochondrosis is extremely undesirable.

Question: In what cases is surgical intervention required in the treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine?

Answer: Indications for surgical intervention are the lack of effectiveness of drug treatment for 6-12 months. It all depends on the individual physiological characteristics of the patient and the clinical component of the disease.

Question: What is the effectiveness of using chondroprotectors in the treatment of osteochondrosis?

Answer: Chondroprotectors are part of complex therapy. There is evidence that it is inappropriate to use these medicinal components doesn't exist yet.

Unfortunately, doctors are forced to note the “rejuvenation” of this disease. Just 25 years ago, osteochondrosis was considered a disease affecting people over 40 years of age. Today business as usual It is considered to identify osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in people no older than 30 years.

Reasons early development there are quite a lot of diseases. The most common ones include:

Stages of cervical osteochondrosis in women

Doctors diagnose four stages of osteochondrosis, each of which indicates the degree of damage to the discs.


As osteochondrosis develops, it goes through several stages, characterized by certain signs and symptoms. We will look at these stages below.

Osteochondrosis of the 1st degree of the cervical spine (preclinical stage)

Usually, at the initial stage of development of the disease, only a slight smoothing of the lordosis of the neck is observed; patients experience pain that intensifies when turning and tilting the head, and they feel tension and rapid fatigue of the muscles in the back and lower back.

At this stage, osteochondrosis can be cured without medication; it is enough to change your diet, do exercises and other activities.

Osteochondrosis 2 degrees

At the second stage, instability is observed between the vertebrae, the patient begins to experience more intense pain, periodically radiating to the arms or shoulders, and pain also increases when turning and tilting the head.

This occurs as a result of pinched nerves as the height of the intervertebral discs decreases. Patients begin to notice rapid fatigue, absent-mindedness, decreased performance levels, and headaches.

Signs of illness

The neck has a highly developed circulatory network that feeds not only the cervical region, but also the brain. Therefore, osteochondrosis is manifested primarily by cerebral circulatory disorders, which is reflected in the following symptoms:

If the disease reaches the stage where compression of the nerves occurs, the patient may feel weakness in the arms and coldness in the fingers.

Often, pinched nerve roots cause pain in the throat and teeth. This leads to patients having their teeth and throat treated, but the treatment does not bring results, because the neck had to be dealt with.

Pain with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine can spread to the arm and shoulder. They can change their intensity when changing body position. They are quite easily eliminated with painkillers.

Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis

Even the initial stage of the disease can be detected by the following signs:

  • pain in the neck, back of the head, shoulders or arms;
  • hand weakness;
  • crunching and pain when moving the head;
  • general weakness, fatigue, lack of coordination, dizziness;
  • decreased visual and hearing acuity, numbness of the tongue.

This disease, when it appears in a person, makes itself known with a variety of unpleasant sensations.

Diagnosis of chondrosis of the cervical spine

The first step in diagnosing cervical osteochondrosis is examining the patient. A neuropathologist visually examines the condition of the spinal column, back muscles and posture, and by palpation determines the presence of protruding spinous processes.

During palpation, the doctor will be able to understand from the patient’s reaction which parts of the body are affected that are causing the pain. The following hardware diagnostic methods are used:

  • radiography;
  • CT scan;
  • Magnetic resonance imaging;
  • Dopplerography.

The first method often uses the introduction contrast agent into one tissue or another (discography, angiography, etc.). This is necessary to obtain more accurate information about the characteristics of the course of the disease.

They are used in medicine to diagnose diseases. following methods:

  • Radiography. This method is ineffective, especially in the last stages of osteochondrosis development.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A method to see bone structures, herniated intervertebral discs, their size and direction of development.
  • CT scan. A less effective solution than MRI, since the presence and size of hernias is difficult to determine.
  • Ultrasonic duplex scanning. This method is used in cases where a disturbance in blood flow is suspected in the arteries. Using a scan, you can determine the speed of blood flow and whether there are any obstacles to it.

Drug treatment

Many patients, even with severe pain, are in no hurry to see a doctor. The motives for such behavior are quite understandable.

We appeal to those who put off consulting a neurologist until later: even if the drugs are sold without a prescription, only a doctor can choose a treatment regimen that will be not only effective, but also safe for you.

If there is no opportunity to visit a specialized specialist, I recommend giving preference to:

  • Selective NSAIDs;
  • chondroprotectors with the highest level security;
  • herbal hypnotic.

Drug treatment for osteochondrosis of the neck begins with getting rid of the main symptoms. Eliminating pain is a task that can be accomplished with drugs injected into the veins: Meloxicam, Ketorolac, Analgin. Lidocaine is used as a local analgesic.

It is necessary to start fighting osteochondrosis at the earliest stages of the disease. Incorrect or insufficient treatment will lead to rupture of the fibrous ring of the disc and the appearance of an intervertebral hernia.

Because the spinal canal in the cervical spine is quite narrow, then any protrusion of the disc causes compression of the vertebral artery. This affects supplies spinal cord and its membranes with blood and can even lead to ischemic stroke.

Also, with cervical osteochondrosis, hypertension often develops.

For this reason, before starting to treat the disease with medications, you need to diagnose accurate diagnosis. After this, you can begin drug therapy, physiotherapy and therapeutic exercises.

Medicines for cervical osteochondrosis in the acute period

During an exacerbation of the disease, the patient experiences severe pain. That's why the main task doctors is to eliminate the pain syndrome. For this purpose they are used the following medications:

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is most often carried out using conservative techniques. It is also possible to use anti-inflammatory and painkillers, chondoprotectors, as well as medications that help relieve swelling and tension in the muscles. However, medications only help to cope with intense pain. Physiotherapeutic treatment of cervical osteochondrosis helps to get rid of it, if not forever, then at least for a long time. The most commonly used methods include:

  • Acupuncture;
  • Massotherapy;
  • Electrophoresis;
  • Laser therapy;
  • Manual therapy methods.

READ ALSO: Vitamins for osteochondrosis

As a rule, this treatment of cervical osteochondrosis takes about two weeks.

Osteochondrosis of the cervical vertebra is treated quite successfully with timely consultation with a doctor and the appointment of a set of measures, which includes medications, physiotherapeutic and preventive methods of therapy, such as physical therapy, massage, acupuncture.

The main tasks of providing medical care are to relieve pain and restore the normal functioning of the cervical vertebrae.

Cervical osteochondrosis treatment with medication involves the following:

Any type of osteochondrosis - cervical, thoracic or lumbar - is treated faster and more effectively in the early stages of the disease. Since osteochondrosis is often asymptomatic and long-term, it often occurs in a combined form (cervical along with thoracic), therefore it is very important to make the correct diagnosis in order to prescribe a specific set of therapeutic measures. Treatment of cervical-thoracic osteochondrosis involves three stages of action:

  1. Therapy with medications aimed at relieving pain, relaxing damaged, tense muscles, improving blood supply to the vessels of the brain and spinal column - non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Diclofenac, Ibuprofen), analgesics, myelorelaxants (Mydocalm, Baclofen), irritating ointments - Finalgon, Apisatron.
  2. Physiotherapeutic methods that consolidate drug therapy - electrical stimulation with microcurrents, UHF, acupuncture, acupuncture, manual therapy course.
  3. Preventive methods that neutralize relapses - a complex of physical therapy, therapeutic massage.

It is also recommended to follow a gentle diet, excluding salty and spicy foods, to minimize swelling and improve metabolism.

Let us dwell in more detail on therapeutic massage, which, if performed correctly, you can do at home to get rid of unpleasant sensations. In order not to harm yourself, you need to follow a few simple rules:

  • Do not press too hard on your neck and back;
  • All movements must be carried out from top to bottom;

The massage process itself may include the following components:

  • Fixing your hand on your knee, run your fingers from the back of your head to your shoulder;
  • Do the same with the edge of your palm;
  • Make light circular movements along the same path;
  • Knead the bumps behind your ears;
  • Run your fingers along the side of your neck.

This treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is complemented by cupping massage, used for all types of osteochondrosis, as well as radiculitis. This well-known folk method helps improve blood circulation and improve muscle condition.

In the case of cervical osteochondrosis, it is necessary to make smooth movements from the back of the head to the shoulders, however, without touching the vertebra itself.

All these movements will help you stretch and relax your neck muscles. Their daily use can be combined with active recreation and a trip to the pool or gym. However, if you do not have this opportunity, treatment of cervical osteochondrosis can be carried out at home by performing some of the following exercises:

  • Head nods;
  • Tilts left and right;
  • Moving the head forward and backward without bending;
  • Lying on your stomach, bring your shoulder blades together, raising your head and shoulders;
  • The starting position is the same. Make consistent movements with your arms: forward – to the sides – to the shoulders.
  • Make vertical movements with your shoulders from a sitting position.

Therapeutic sessions should be as relaxing and gentle as possible, without any forceful techniques or painful sensations. Only then will they be beneficial, and the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis will be enhanced if you combine all these exercises with proper nutrition - consumption of all the necessary vitamins and minerals, and the absence of too salty and spicy foods in your diet.

In order for the problem of osteochondrosis to be familiar to you only by hearsay, you need to remember the following:

  • The back of your chair should be fairly rigid;
  • Whether you are working or relaxing in front of the TV or computer, do not stay in one position for a long time. Get up periodically and walk around the room;
  • Don't tilt your head too close to a book or monitor. Remember the optimal distance is 30-35 cm.
  • The bed should not be too soft;
  • Even when working or driving, remain calm and do not overexert yourself.

Your attending physician will tell you how to treat osteochondrosis of the cervical spine without harming the body. Below are the basic rules and recommendations for combating this unpleasant illness, but the beginning successful treatment is a visit to a neurologist.

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is carried out using a whole range of methods. Among them:.

  • drug therapy;
  • physiotherapy;
  • traditional medicine;
  • exercises.

By medical statistics one of the most frequent illnesses cervical osteochondrosis, in which the intervertebral discs are damaged, is degenerative-dystrophic in nature.

Even young patients are affected by the disease, and complications can be life-threatening. Today we will figure out what medications are usually used to treat this disease.

Medicines for cervical osteochondrosis to relieve pain

Medicines for the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis are used almost immediately, as they are needed to alleviate the patient’s condition by reducing pain. There are various painkillers that must be taken orally, but there are also intravenous injections.

High efficiency There are different drugs for pain relief:

Taking tablets for osteochondrosis not only relieves pain, but also relieves inflammation and swelling that causes compression of blood vessels and nerve roots. However, in addition to pain relief, you need to know how to treat cervical osteochondrosis and what drug treatment doctors prescribe for different forms of the disease.

What medications to take during an exacerbation for cervical osteochondrosis?

During the period of exacerbation of the disease, when debilitating pain dominates the clinical picture, the main goal of treating cervical osteochondrosis with tablets is to relieve pain.

We wrote above what medications this can be used for, but you can also use complex medications like Arcoxia and Ambene.

There are anti-inflammatory non-steroidal drugs that relieve pain and eliminate swelling:

With the help of muscle relaxants, muscle spasms are usually relieved, in which the cervical vertebrae are blocked and blood vessels and nerve endings are pinched:

Kinesiology

We asked the head of the Department of Neurosurgery No. 3 in Moscow, vertebrologist, Candidate of Medical Sciences Viktor Vadimovich Rudenko to answer questions related to the treatment of osteochondrosis.

Question: How long can non-steroidal drugs be used in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis?

Answer: Most nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have side effects that negatively affect the gastric mucosa. Therefore, long-term use of a pharmacological agent in the treatment of osteochondrosis is extremely undesirable.

Drug treatment is the first stage of impact on the damaged area and continues continuously. Its goal is to relieve pain, improve blood supply to the damaged area and eliminate inflammation.

Used for treatment various medications in the form of tablets, powders, tinctures, ointments and injections.

Drug therapy

How to treat osteochondrosis of the cervical spine using medications? Drug therapy for the disease includes taking the following means:

  • painkillers;
  • anti-inflammatory;
  • vitamins;
  • chondroprotectors.

Analgesics help relieve symptoms of pain during exacerbation of cervical osteochondrosis and are used for a short time. The attending physician may prescribe medications such as Tramadol, Mycodalm, Arcoxia or Spazmalgon as painkillers.

For very severe pain, it is possible to use injections of Lidocaine and Milgamma.

READ ALSO: Bubnovsky exercises for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine video

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are designed to reduce inflammation, among them are the drugs Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, and Piroxicam. Such products are also used externally.

This various ointments and gels: “Diclofenac”, “Voltaren”. Of the vitamins, the most valuable in terms of maintenance therapy for osteochondrosis are B vitamins, which can reduce the sensitivity of tissues and weaken the neurological manifestations of the disease.

Medicinal assistance

During the period of exacerbation of cervical osteochondrosis inflammatory edema and severe muscle spasm in the neck and shoulder girdle lead to disruption of microcirculation in the tissues of this area. This further increases pain and neurological symptoms (weakness in the arms, headache and etc.).

Therefore, neurologists also use vasodilators, For example:

  • Actovegin,
  • berlition,
  • trental,
  • pentoxifylline.

Vasodilators eliminate blood stagnation in the affected area, normalize metabolic processes, restore nerve impulses - and in general the healing process goes faster

To eliminate severe pain, anti-inflammatory drugs are used for osteochondrosis. The effect is to reduce inflammation of the area. Anti-inflammatory drugs are divided into two types:

A medicine that can cure osteochondrosis forever has not yet been invented, but there are medicines that stop pathological processes, restoring former activity, the joy of movement, relieving pain.

The patient's health status will begin to improve rapidly if medical supplies are chosen correctly. Tablets for osteochondrosis are the most effective, helping to neutralize spasms and relax muscle tissue.

Maintenance therapy uses antispasmodics and muscle relaxants. What pills to take for osteochondrosis are prescribed by a specialist after an examination. Drugs for the treatment of osteochondrosis are available in several formats; choose the one that is more convenient to use: injection, ointment, tablets.

Mydocalm is a drug whose effect reduces spasms of the muscles of the spinal and vertebral sections, has an analgesic effect. Available in the form of injections and tablets. The remedy for osteochondrosis does not cause muscle weakness and there is no sedative effect. Taken at a dose of 0.05 g three times a day, the dose increases over time. The duration depends on the severity of muscle spasms and pain;

Sirdalud - dosed at 0.006 g per day, with use the volume increases to 0.01 g per day. The appointment time is calculated based on pain and muscle spasms;

Baclofen is a rarely prescribed drug. Dose: 0.005 g three times a day. The amount of medication is analyzed over time, increasing to 0.03-0.075 g for an adult. The time of use is prescribed by the doctor, based on severe symptoms. The drug is withdrawn gradually.

Katadolon is a drug that should be discussed separately. These tablets for osteochondrosis have a specific non-narcotic analgesic effect.

The drug has an effect, activates K+ channels of neurons, acts on central system, relieves pain in the muscles of the spinal region, because belongs to the group of muscle relaxants.

Used to reduce or eliminate pain, but is not effective for chronic disease.

It is used in monotherapy and as a medicine for osteochondrosis in case of contraindication to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The drug is prohibited for car drivers and pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Capsules in a volume of 0.1 g are taken three or four times a day, not exceeding a dose of 0.6 g. Use in accordance with the doctor’s prescription instructions.

The treating neurologist, depending on the progression of the pathology and the patient’s condition, prescribes prescription drugs, which are strictly prohibited for use without a doctor’s prescription. Three groups consisting of anticonvulsants, opioid analgesics, antidepressants.

Modern medical practice shows that in some cases of severe pain, a short course of opioid analgesics is added. “Severe” pain is a condition in which restrictions appear in life: a person does not find a place for himself, is in constant anxiety, is not distracted from pain, has problems sleeping.

Tramadol is prescribed, a drug taken 50 mg once or twice a day; if ineffective, the doctor increases the dose, the course duration is from four to seven days.

At radicular syndrome Doctors use anticonvulsants, Pregabalin and Gabapentin. Eliminate painful sensations, improve the patient’s condition, normalize his sleep.

  • Pregabalin is taken 0.15 g per day in two doses. The dose increases to 0.3-0.6 g weekly. Used only under medical supervision, side effects may occur;
  • Gabapentin is used as follows: the first day 0.3 g, the second day 0.3 g twice, the third day 0.3 g three times, the fourth day - 0.3 g four times. The dose is increased to 1.8 g per day, used in accordance with the doctor’s recommendations. Side effects are possible.

Secondary symptoms of osteochondrosis include depression. It manifests itself in chronic pain syndrome that lasts longer three months.

Patients experience fears of complications, anxiety and a noticeable decrease in mood. Medicines are prescribed according to a prescription, and their effectiveness is monitored by the attending physician.

Imipramine, Clomipramine, Amitriptyline relieve pain better, but have side effects. Sertraline, Paroxetine, Fluoxetine relieve anxiety, normalize sleep, eliminate fear, and the side effects are less pronounced.

Only the treating neurologist will determine the contraindications of these drugs.

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VIDEO ON THE TOPIC

If you are interested in exactly what opportunities need to be used in order to completely get rid of an unnecessary illness, if you want to figure out right now what needs to be done and what to do, you are invited to read our article, because this is where you can find the very data , which in all likelihood could not be found on the Internet.

Remember that the use of medications against osteochondrosis should be used only if there is a word “Good” from the doctor, since our data is just a recommendation for action, while the opinion of the doctor and the physician in general - all this helps to take the necessary steps towards the desired goal to the maximum fast deadlines.

So, what do you need to understand about what medications you need to buy and use in the future? Before starting the conversation itself, we want to remind you that every person has such a concept as “individual tolerance.”

Why are we saying this? In general, today patients can resort to one or another set of certain substances that work well to eliminate pain or the causes of the disease itself.

However, as practice shows, not all substances can be taken orally or into the muscle, since there are problems with allergic reactions. If you decide to work on using this or that substance, if you need to figure out which tablets are worth buying.

and which ones need to be avoided, you are invited to read the information that we will offer you in our article, since this is how you can understand the problem.

In general, cervical osteochondrosis today can be treated with both tablets and injections. Moreover, you can resort to this type of influence on the disease, such as blocking.

Remember that we have already talked about it (we are talking about blocking) on ​​many pages of the portal, so you are invited to use the search again, find the necessary articles and read them to familiarize yourself with a similar definition in medicine.

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis should always be carried out with special care and caution. This disease has its own characteristics during its course. These are the small size and fragility of the vertebrae, the narrowness of the cervical canal for the spinal cord, and the proximity of vital arteries. They cause the emergence severe consequences in the absence of the necessary therapy.

It is in the cervical region most often in short time disc protrusions appear, which can turn into hernias, compressing spinal cord or vessels. To exclude such complications, it is important to consult a doctor earlier for diagnosis and begin drug treatment for cervical osteochondrosis.

Cervical osteochondrosis: basics of conservative therapy

Osteochondrosis develops in stages, and each stage is accompanied by progression pathological changes. First, the thickness of the intervertebral discs decreases, then they begin to collapse. As a result, compensatory growth of the bone processes of the vertebrae is observed, connective tissue. Nerve roots and tissues are compressed, which leads to swelling, pain, and inflammation. Cervical osteochondrosis disrupts the blood supply to the brain, causing dizziness and even fainting.

Drug treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is used along with physiotherapy, gymnastics, and massage. It should be started while there are no irreversible changes and no surgical intervention is required. The most important goals of therapy are to relieve the inflammatory process and slow down the progression of pathology. If to achieve the second goal the patient needs a number of other, no less important treatment methods, then the inflammation can only be removed with the use of medications. Therefore, therapy for osteochondrosis almost always begins with taking various medications.

Stages of drug treatment of the neck for degenerative changes:

  1. Neutralization of pain, inflammation.
  2. Bringing blood circulation and metabolic processes back to normal.
  3. Stimulating cell regeneration.
  4. Consolidation of results and reduction in the rate of destruction of intervertebral cartilage.

We must not forget that the effectiveness of medications will be low without the subsequent use of non-drug methods - physiotherapeutic, manual, massage, exercise therapy, which are selected strictly individually. Since a number of medications have unpleasant side effects, therapy is prohibited from being carried out uncontrolled, without taking into account contraindications!

Acute and chronic osteochondrosis - differences in treatment

If available cervicothoracic osteochondrosis, drug treatment should be carried out not only in acute phase, but also during remission. The differences in the types of drugs taken will be significant, because therapy is largely symptomatic.

Exacerbation of the disease is treated using the following means and methods:

  1. Paravertebral blockades with painkillers, anesthetics to reduce acute pain and relieving muscle spasms.
  2. Taking anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve the inflammatory process.
  3. Local application of ointments with an analgesic effect to enhance the effect of systemic medications.

In remission or after elimination acute symptoms The treatment regimen for cervical osteochondrosis is different. Spicy inflammatory process absent, vascular changes and disturbances in the functioning of the peripheral nervous system come to the fore. The drugs of choice are:

  • Angiotonics, angioprotectors;
  • B vitamins;
  • Herbal, homeopathic remedies.

Also, treatment should be aimed at slowing down the destruction of hyaline cartilage of the discs, and therefore the patient is prescribed long-term courses of taking chondroprotectors. If there is a hernia, only surgery can help a person, and medications will be administered after the intervention or during the intervention.

Types of drugs for cervical osteochondrosis

The selection and prescription of medications for the medical treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is carried out only by a specialist. The combination of drugs depends on the stage of the disease, the form (acute, chronic), symptoms, and objective changes in the spine. There are many groups of drugs - the main ones will be described in detail below.

With the immediate development of pain, it is recommended to take over-the-counter analgesics - Analgina, Spasmalgona, Baralgina. They often become a first aid measure for a person and reduce sensitivity nerve endings. Severe pain, for example, with a hernia, is relieved by taking prescription non-narcotic analgesics, which are taken only in short courses under the supervision of a doctor.

Paravertebral blockades are more effective for pain. Medicines for their implementation - anesthetics ( Novocaine, Lidocaine) with glucocorticosteroids ( Hydrocortisone, Prednisolone). Steroid medications can also reduce pain by quickly relieving inflammation, eliminating swelling and relaxing muscles. A good effect will be achieved if the patient is given a blockade with Diprospan (a drug with a prolonged action).

Blockades for osteochondrosis can be different in the area of ​​administration, which depends on the area of ​​pinched nerve roots and the severity of inflammation and edema:

  • Intradermal and subcutaneous;
  • Muscular;
  • Perineural (next to the nerve);
  • Radicular (into the nerve);
  • Articular (in the intervertebral space);
  • Epidural - into the spinal cord.

Most often, 5-7 blockades are placed in the area of ​​the interspinous and supraspinous ligaments, or in the tissue surrounding the vertebra. To perform blockades, the participation of a highly qualified specialist is required!

Drug treatment of acute-stage osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is impossible without the use of NSAIDs - tablets, powders, injections. Such remedies eliminate the cause severe pain– inflammation with swelling, which compresses soft tissues, blood vessels, and nerves. The best treatment option is 1-3 injections and further treatment by taking pills.

The most effective drugs of the group:

  • Ibuprofen;
  • Ortofen;
  • Ketonal;
  • Ketorolac;
  • Meloxicam;
  • Diclofenac;
  • Indomethacin.

Modern NSAIDs have a more gentle effect on the body - Celecoxib, Dexalgin, Rofecoxib, Arcoxia, and such drug treatment is long-lasting and prolonged. Non-steroidal drugs should not be abused - they cause stomach ulcers, colitis, and gastritis.

Complex treatment of pathology necessarily includes long-term use (3-6 months or more) of chondroprotectors - drugs to improve the condition of cartilage tissue. The best way carrying out therapy – course application intramuscular or intravenous injections such medications (10-15 sessions) followed by tablet administration. The same medications are used to make intravertebral blockades, which is a highly effective way to restore elasticity and normal structure disks.

The drugs in the group are as follows:

  • Chondroxide;
  • Alflutop;
  • Teraflex;
  • Structum;
  • Artra.

B vitamins help improve function nerve cells, optimize conductivity nerve tissue, reduce the severity of neurological defects in damaged roots. In addition, these vitamins help normalize metabolism in tissues.

Typically, drug treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in women and men involves injection or oral administration drugs:

  • Milgamma;
  • Neuromultivitis;
  • Neurorubin;
  • Neurovitan.

In the treatment of osteochondrosis important They also have vitamins A, E, C. These are powerful antioxidants, they help improve metabolism and slow down oxidative reactions. Selection harmful products, which is characteristic of the inflammation phase, decreases, the rate of destruction of neighboring cells slows down. Also, to restore vertebral bone tissue, many patients are prescribed vitamin D and calcium (calciferol).

Muscle relaxants are needed to eliminate muscle spasms, because muscles, when inflamed, compress the nerve roots and small vessels, causing pain. Medications are usually recommended Mydocalm, Baclofen, Sirdalud. IN severe cases pinched roots may be prescribed to the patient anticonvulsants eg Carbamazepine.

Vascular drugs

For dizziness, headaches, tinnitus, and impaired skin sensitivity, vascular medications are necessary. There are several types of drugs with different actions, from which the doctor will select the desired combination:

  1. Nootropics (vasodilators) – Pentoxifylline, Cavinton, Nootropil, Cinnarizine.
  2. Angioprotectors (drugs to protect blood vessels and improve blood microcirculation) – Actovegin.
  3. Tools for optimizing work vestibular apparatusVestibo, Betaserk.
  4. Venotonics (medicines to improve blood flow) venous blood, stagnation warnings) – Aescusanus, Venarus.

External means

After diagnosis, a neurologist or vertebrologist will describe a scheme for how to treat cervical osteochondrosis. Drug treatment, however, can be started at home using external remedies. Ointments, creams, gels are available, practically harmless to the body, and serve as an excellent symptomatic method:

  1. Pain relieving ointments with NSAIDs – Diclofenac, Fastum-gel, Voltaren.
  2. Warming ointments that improve microcirculation – Finalgon, Capsicam, Dolobene.
  3. Ointments with chondroprotectors to slow down the destruction of the vertebrae - Chondroxide, Chondroitin.
  4. Homeopathic ointments, with herbal components, with beekeeping products, having a resorption effect - Traumeel, Sofia.

The treatment program for osteochondrosis in some cases may include other drugs, for example, sedatives, antidepressants, decongestants (diuretics). It is important that all therapy is carried out in combination with non-drug methods and is recommended by an experienced doctor!

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine occurs due to a number of reasons and requires complex treatment, including drug therapy, physiotherapy, massage, physical therapy. Tablets for cervical osteochondrosis act on the affected area from the inside, so this type The treatment is considered very effective.

Cervical osteochondrosis requires compulsory treatment, and it needs to be started at the earliest stages of the disease, when the first symptoms appear. The earlier treatment is started, the faster the patient’s general condition improves, and the higher the chances of restoring the damaged vertebral structure. In complicated cases this dosage form can be used in complex therapy as symptomatic treatment. You should take pills for cervical osteochondrosis if there are a number of indications:

  • pronounced pain syndrome;
  • spasm and muscle tension caused by pinched nerve endings in the cervical spine;
  • decreased sensitivity and numbness of tissue in the affected area;
  • violation motor activity;
  • changes in blood pressure;
  • frequent headaches, dizziness, nausea;
  • the process of destruction of vertebral cartilage tissue, confirmed by radiographic examination.

You can start taking tablets for cervical osteochondrosis if you have any of listed symptoms and when the initial stage of the disease is identified.

Advantages of using tablet drugs

Available in various forms– these are numerous ointments, gels, patches, preparations for intramuscular and intravenous injections. Preparations for external use do not always provide effective action , due to shallow penetration into the skin. Also, in case of any damage skin , the use of such means is not recommended. To receive an injection of the drug, you need to visit treatment room at the clinic, or have medical education

to give your own injections at home. The tablet form of the medicine is convenient because it can be used at home, in the dosages prescribed by the doctor and provided that all recommendations are followed.

Types of drugs for the treatment of osteochondrosis

  1. Pharmacies sell many medications for the treatment of spinal diseases freely available. And only a doctor can determine which pills to take in each specific case. Drugs are classified into the following categories:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

This group of medications is prescribed to reduce tissue swelling in cervical osteochondrosis, eliminate severe painful pain, and relieve inflammation in the muscles.

  1. Diclofenac sodium, Ibuprofen, Indomethacin, Naproxen have proven to be the most effective.

Muscle relaxants This medicinal group designed to save muscle fibers from spasm and eliminate pain. At severe forms osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, when complex treatment includes massage and manual therapy

, it is almost impossible to do without muscle relaxants. This is explained by the fact that the muscles first need to be relaxed and warmed up, and then proceed to the above procedures. If you do not take muscle relaxants at this stage of treatment, the massage procedure will be impossible due to pronounced pain and spasms. You should take drugs in this group only under the supervision of a doctor, since the incorrectly calculated dosage may have a negative effect on the diaphragm and lead to respiratory arrest. Also, while taking these pills, you should stop driving a car.

The drug Mydocalm effectively affects the body, achieving its goals.

  1. Analgesics

Painkillers for the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis in medical practice most often prescribed. With mild pain syndrome, many patients think that they can take analgesics on their own, but this cannot be done, because only a doctor can choose correct dose drug and decide which tablets to take in each specific case. The most effective drugs for pain relief are Amidopyrine, Analgin, Baralgin. When pain is severe, that is, in complicated cases of cervical osteochondrosis, it is recommended to use narcotic analgesics, for example Tramal. The drug is released strictly according to prescription and taken under the supervision of medical personnel.

  1. Drugs for blood supply to the brain

An important point in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is the establishment of blood circulation in the brain. It is necessary to take pills that will improve the functioning of the central nervous system, improve nutrition of the spinal column, and reduce the symptoms of dizziness and pain. The drugs Actovegin and Trental have the listed properties.

To relieve tissue swelling in the affected area, venotonics are used. For efficient churn excess liquid Detralex is prescribed from tissues.

Auxiliary drugs for complex therapy of osteochondrosis

Tablets for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine must include groups of drugs that restore cartilage tissue spine, supporting the general condition of the nervous system and providing complete vitamin support for the body.

Such drugs include:

  1. Chondroprotectors

The prescription of this group of medications in the treatment of osteochondrosis is due to the need to restore deformed cartilage tissue. Taking chondroprotectors should be carried out in courses, the first course is at least 2-3 months. Such deadlines are required to achieve the first positive results therapy.

The most common drugs that are included in the treatment of osteochondrosis are Chondroxide, Kartilag Vitrum, Structum.

  1. Vitamin complexes

Which tablets to choose for best solution deficiency of vitamins in the body, only a doctor can decide, based on the entire clinical picture of the patient. Vitamin preparations, which are most often prescribed for the treatment of osteochondrosis, usually contain:

  • retinol - to strengthen spinal cord tissue;
  • thiamine - for stimulation recovery processes in bones and cartilage;
  • pyridoxine - to improve nutrition of all vital organs;
  • cyanocobalamin - to relieve inflammation and restore damaged tissues and cells;
  • ascorbic acid - to normalize brain functions.

You can continue taking vitamins after eliminating the symptoms of the disease to maintain a good therapeutic effect.

  1. Antidepressants and sedatives

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis includes the use of psychotic drugs, for example Afobazole, Amitriptyline, as well as sedative herbal drugs - Motherwort, Valerian. They are prescribed to improve the patient’s general condition, relieve feelings of anxiety and stress.

Tablets to prevent the development of osteochondrosis

Preventing the development of a disease is always better and easier than curing the disease that occurs later. Play an important role in the prevention of osteochondrosis healthy image life, correct and regular physical exercise(but not excessive), nutrition that provides the body with full vital saturation important vitamins and microelements. The only tablets that can act as a prophylactic drug to prevent osteochondrosis are vitamins B 12 and Calcium. These tablets will help maintain a healthy spinal column and ensure complete strengthening of the osteochondral system.

It is also important to avoid smoking, drinking alcohol and monitoring your body weight.