What is dorsopathy of the cervical spine and why is it dangerous. Dorsopathy of the cervical spine: symptoms and treatment

Many different pathologies are associated with the neck. All inflammatory, degenerative diseases of the vertebral bodies, discs, muscle tissues, blood vessels and nerve fibers that occur in this area can be combined by a single general term - cervical dorsopathy. Unlike other departments, where such a phenomenon is more often associated with age-related changes, neck dorsopathy can be observed relatively early - literally from school.

Dorsopathy of the cervical region: causes and treatment

- a disease of the technogenic era, now caused rather than by senile destruction in the bones, but by a hypodynamic lifestyle, in which preference is given not to movement, but to static, tense postures.

More often, diseases of the transitional sections of the spine, in particular the cervicothoracic, are stated.

Types of cervical dorsopathy

In total, four types of dorsopathy of the cervicothoracic region can be distinguished:

  • Deforming, without destruction in the discs and severe neurological symptoms
    These include:
    • Osteochondrosis of the first or second degree
    • Scoliosis
    • Kyphosis
    • in the early stages
    • vertebrae
    • Deformities caused by bone resorption ()
  • Discogenic dorsopathy, leading to destruction in the intervertebral discs and accompanied by severe neurological and autonomic symptoms, not only local, but also remote:
    • , occiput, humeroscapular and upper chest region
    • Phenomena of paresthesia (symptoms of tingling, crawling, etc.)
    • Loss of sensation in the limbs, neck-occipital regions

    Discogenic dorsopathy includes:

    • Protrusions in the neck
    • with disk offsets
  • Degenerative-inflammatory, caused by late degenerative processes, as well as inflammation of the vertebral tissues of various etiologies:
    • Deforming spondylarthrosis of 3-4 degrees
    • cervical canal
    • Osteomyelitis
    • rheumatoid arthritis
    • Tumors
    • Infectious myositis
  • Other types of dorsopathy
    These, for example, include myofascial syndrome (muscle pain tension), the causes of which are:
    • Constant bad posture, sleeping on an uncomfortable pillow
    • Overexertion of the neck muscles due to inadequate muscle loading
    • Hypothermia of the neck

Factors contributing to the development of cervical dorsopathy

Dorsopathy is not some separate disease for the treatment of which recipes are already known. This is a whole series of diseases, the causes of which are both congenital and acquired.

The development of such pathologies can contribute to:

  • Genetic inherent disorders of metabolic intracellular processes, leading to a lack of important building components of cartilage:
    collagen, chondroitin sulfates, mucopolysaccharides etc
  • Poor nutrition
  • Neck injury
  • Anomalies of the cervical vertebrae
  • Constant drafts, high humidity, etc.

Complications of cervical dorsopathy

Dorsopathy of the cervical spine can lead to complications:

  • Syndrome of the vertebral artery
  • Myelopathic syndrome
  • Vegetovascular dystonia

Vertebral artery syndrome - spasm of the cervical artery, leading to poor blood supply, cerebral ischemia and even stroke

Often a similar phenomenon occurs on the basis of uncovertebral arthrosis..


The main symptoms of vertebral artery syndrome:

  • Shooting headaches
  • with possible short-term loss of consciousness
  • Visual-auditory disorders
  • Decreased performance, memory, etc.

Myelopathic syndrome is a set of phenomena accompanying spinal cord compression:

  • Paralysis of the limbs
  • Loss of sensation below the area of ​​brain compression
  • Dysfunctions of the urinary organs and intestines and other phenomena, etc.

Vegetative-vascular dystonia are symptoms of impaired regulation of the peripheral nervous system, which is responsible for the functioning of internal organs.

This manifests itself in:

  • Pressure drops
  • Cardiac arrhythmia
  • Asphyxia
  • Increased nervous excitability:
    • irritability
    • unreasonable feeling of anxiety
  • Thermoregulation disorders:
    • excessive sweating even at low ambient temperatures
    • sensations of chilliness, then heat in the body
    • cold feet and hands

Treatment of cervical dorsopathy

Treatment of cervical dorsopathy is carried out sequentially in several directions, depending on the causes of its origin and clinical symptoms:


  • Removal of acute pain syndrome
  • Decreased muscle tension
  • Elimination of ischemic symptoms
  • Restoration of destroyed bone structures and neuromuscular regulation
  • Strengthening the musculoskeletal apparatus of the cervical region

Accordingly, with this scheme are assigned:

  • Anti-inflammatory non-steroidal pain medications:
    • Ketoprofen
    • Movalis, etc.
  • Therapeutic local blockade based on lidocaine or novocaine
  • Corticosteroids
  • External means:
    • Diclofenac - gel,
  • Muscle relaxants:
    • mydocalm, sirdalud, baclofen
  • Additional measures for pain:
    • Immobilizing (Schanz collar)
    • Manual therapy
    • Postisometric relaxation
  • When the nerve roots are pinched by a hernia, it can be applied:
    Traction
  • In some cases, resort to surgery:
    • For severe injuries
    • Spinal cord compressions
    • Unstable spondylolisthesis
  • Simple subluxations of the cervical vertebrae are successfully eliminated by manual therapy
  • To improve blood circulation and brain activity, nootropic drugs and angioprotectors are used:
    • Pentoxifylline
    • Eufillin
    • Piracetam
    • Actovegin
  • For the regeneration of the cartilage layer, courses of admission are prescribed:
    Alflutop, Dona, Structum
  • To restore nervous activity, improve tissue metabolism, slow down oxidative processes in them, are taken:
    • Milgamma (vitamin B complex)
    • A nicotinic acid
    • Vitamins A, E and C
  • In order to strengthen the muscles and ligaments of the neck, exercise therapy is prescribed

The remedies listed are just a list of what can be used. The choice of the path of treatment is strictly individual and is determined by the vertebrologist or orthopedist after the examination.

  • Some drugs (such as corticosteroids) are used for particularly severe pain
  • It is impossible to use painkillers for a long time without protecting the gastrointestinal tract, as they can cause an ulcer
  • You also need to think carefully about seemingly completely harmless neck collars, and not wear them literally on every occasion.

Video: When to wear a Shants collar with cervical dorsopathy

In recent decades, the diagnosis of dorsopathy of the cervical spine has been made more and more often. This is due to the modern way of life of a person, when most people work in the office for 8-10 hours in almost complete immobility. And then these people rush to the gym, where they load their musculoskeletal system, trying to compensate for the time spent in a sitting position. As a result, such people develop, and a number of other diseases that can be described as cervical dorsopathy.

Dorsopathy - what is it?

The term dorsopathy can be applied to diseases or abnormal, pathological conditions of the cervical spine, which consists of the first 7 vertebrae from the top. It turns out that cervical dorsopathy is any disorder or degenerative-dystrophic disease, or a complex of diseases of the musculoskeletal system, or rather the cervical region. Moreover, regardless of the causes of the pathology - diseases, injuries, congenital anomalies - it is still dorsopathy.

It should be borne in mind that the musculoskeletal system is an integral structure, all elements of which are interconnected and interdependent. This system includes bones, vertebrae of the spine, muscles, joints, ligaments, nervous tissue and even blood arteries. All of these structures are quite vulnerable, but those in the cervical region need to be protected more carefully. After all, above the neck is the head, the brain, which, with the slightest disturbance of blood supply, can cease to function correctly.

The following groups of dorsopathies of the cervical spine are distinguished, depending on the causes of the violations:

  1. Deforming, associated with a violation of the physiological bending of the spinal column. It's basically scoliosis, and. This group also includes pathologies of the intervertebral discs that have not reached the stage of rupture of the fibrous ring (, spondylolisthesis,).
  2. Inflammatory, dystrophic or traumatic spondylopathies (including those with radicular syndrome - severe pain in the neck).
  3. All other cases of dorsopathy, including those with significant degeneration of the fibrous ring of the intervertebral discs, a pronounced pain syndrome. This group also includes lesions of the musculoskeletal system with pain, but without injury to the discs, nerve fibers and spinal cord.

In conclusion, we can say that cervical dorsopathy is any violation of the structure or function of tissues in the cervical spine. Due to the high mobility of this part of the spine, the likelihood of injury is high, as is the likelihood of diseases of the musculoskeletal system in the presence of "favorable" conditions.

Causes of pathology

There can be many reasons for the occurrence of dorsopathy of the cervical region:

  1. Neck injury - sprains, ruptures of ligaments and muscles, bruises, blows, fractures.
  2. Diseases of the cervical spine -,. As well as .
  3. Wrong posture.
  4. Constant stress.
  5. Natural age-related wear of the structures of the spinal column.
  6. General diseases of the ODA.
  7. Improper sleep organization - sleeping on the stomach or on a soft / hard mattress, with a lot of pillows.
  8. Incorrect body biomechanics - excessive loads on the neck area (static, including).

The reason for the development of dorsopathy can be even banal hypothermia, or exercise without first "warming up" the muscles. The main thing is to realize in time that pathological changes occur in the structures of the cervical region, and take preventive or therapeutic measures in time.

Symptoms of the disease

Symptoms of dorsopathy are very characteristic. If the patient experiences them constantly, and not after heavy physical exertion, it means that he has definitely developed a persistent violation of the structure and function of the elements of the ODA. Signs of cervical dorsopathy are as follows:

  • Strong, arms down to the hands;
  • The pain disappears with a change in body position, increases or decreases after physical activity;
  • Sensitivity disorders - an increased reaction to external stimuli or abnormal sensations (goosebumps, numbness, tingling weakness, lack of sensitivity in tissues, etc.);
  • Stiffness of movements, muscle tension and spasms;
  • Difficulties with coordination of movements, motor skills;
  • Pain in the head and signs of impaired functioning of the brain or organs of vision, hearing, speech;
  • Constant nausea.

The most dangerous and severe signs of dorsopathy are fainting, numbness and dysfunction of the limbs, high fever and pain in the chin and chest. In this case, you need to urgently seek medical help. That is, literally call an ambulance.

Treatment Methods

Diagnosis of dorsopathy of the cervical spine is an external examination with palpation. And also in the collection of anamnestic information, the appointment of hardware diagnostic studies (X-ray, CT, MRI). After that, a specific diagnosis will be made and an adequate treatment plan will be developed.

How to start the treatment of cervical dorsopathy? Treatment in the early stages is self-help and non-surgical strategies. Self-help is gymnastics, exercise therapy, self-massage, neat stretching of the neck muscles.


Non-surgical, that is, conservative strategies are:

  1. The use of medicines - NSAIDs, chondroprotectors, painkillers.
  2. Load-free traction of the spine.
  3. Gerudotherapy, manual therapy and other types of physiotherapy.
  4. Wearing a special bandage collar.
  5. Application .
  6. Alternative methods of treatment of inflammatory / degenerative-dystrophic pathologies of the musculoskeletal system.

In any case, the treatment strategy is determined by the attending physician. If conservative therapy is ineffective or the stage of the disease is already serious, surgical treatment will be recommended. To achieve a stable result in the treatment of dorsopathy, you must strictly follow the doctor's recommendations regarding the treatment and recovery period. And also take preventive measures to prevent the recurrence of pathology.

Prevention of relapses

Prevention of dorsopathy lies in the correct lifestyle, rational nutrition and adequate physical activity on the cervical spine. Regular gymnastics, development of the neck area are measures that will help protect the cervical spine from the onset or recurrence of degenerative-dystrophic changes in tissues. Nutrition must be balanced. More protein, less fat and a minimum of carbohydrates - such a menu will help maintain the health of the ODA.

Dorsopathy of the cervical spine is a more dangerous diagnosis than if the problem arose in the chest or. The thing is that the cervical calving of the spinal column is directly connected with the brain. And at the slightest damage to the structures of the neck, serious and dangerous disorders in the brain begin. Therefore, dorsopathy should be diagnosed as early as possible. Otherwise, the treatment will not only be difficult and long, but also financially burdensome.

How often do you hear from a person about their health problems, especially when people are in pain? Many "malfunctions" in the body begin to manifest themselves through pain syndromes, violating the usual comfortable way of life. Such ailments include dorsopathy of the cervical spine. It begins imperceptibly, eventually developing into a constant problem of excruciating painful sensations.

For the convenience of designating all pain syndromes associated with the spine, the term "dorsopathy" has been introduced. It is collective and includes degenerative-dystrophic lesions of the spine, its muscular apparatus and ligaments. Dorsopathy most often implies several pathological processes in the spine: spondylosis, spondylarthrosis, (IPD). A characteristic feature of all dorsopathies is pain.


Risk factors for dorsopathy


Dorsopathy often occurs in drivers.
  • Forced sitting position for a long time ("office syndrome", work at the computer).
  • Spinal microtraumas received in the performance of professional duties (drivers, tractor drivers, athletes).
  • Frequent infections (weaken the body's defense mechanisms).
  • Diseases of the internal organs (cause reflected pain in the spine, lead to the development of muscle spasm).
  • Flat feet, varus, valgus deformity of the feet (uneven load along the axis of the spine leads to congestion of the cervical region).
  • Psycho-emotional congestion (lack of endorphins during stress causes increased tone in the muscles of the shoulder girdle and back).
  • Too soft seating.

Dorsopathy of the cervical spine is more common in people aged 35-55 years, appears against the background of gradual aging of the body. At a younger age, its development is associated with congenital developmental anomalies, sports injuries.

Anatomical features of the cervical spine

  1. Low muscle mass.
  2. The first and second cervical vertebrae form a combined joint that provides rotation of the head.
  3. The transverse processes of the vertebrae that form the channel for the vertebral artery.
  4. The vertebral arteries on each side of the spine supply blood to the brain (limbic-reticular complex) and cervical region. When they are compressed, it is formed: headache, neck pain, vomiting, noise in the ears or head.
  5. Powerful cervical plexus - truncus simpaticus.
  6. Thyroid.
  7. ENT organs.

The basis of the disease is the defeat of the spinal motion segment (SDS). PDS is two vertebrae, an intervertebral disc, a ligamentous apparatus and adjacent neuromuscular structures.

The cervical region is the most mobile part of the spine. With increased load, the core of the disk dries out and its height decreases. If the IVD is damaged, the vertebrae completely take over the load. Under pressure, they begin to touch the bone surfaces, deform, flatten, pathological displacements of the vertebrae relative to each other occur, bone growths (osteophytes) form on the vertebrae. When the IVD dries out, the intervertebral fissures decrease and compress the spinal nerve roots, causing the development of radiculopathy and pain syndromes. Structural features of the cervical spine predispose to compression not only of the nerve roots, but also of the vertebral arteries and spinal cord. Damage to the anatomical structures of the PDS occurs more often by osteophytes than by IVD hernias in the cervical spine.

  • When bone structures are damaged, spondyloarthrosis occurs, deforming spondylosis.
  • With damage to the intervertebral disc - osteochondrosis, hernia of the IVD.
  • Muscle imbalance leads to myofascial syndrome.

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Unfortunately, an unhealthy lifestyle and many other factors often cause the development of diseases associated with the spine. Cervical dorsopathy is one of the varieties of such pathologies. In this article, we will get acquainted with the main features of this disease, as well as learn how to recognize and cure it.

Cervical dorsopathy includes a large number of destructions of vertebral tissues and adjacent muscle fibers. Such an ailment can develop in absolutely any part of the spine, and will always be accompanied by pain and impaired blood circulation.

Most often, cervical dorsopathy occurs in people, and this is due to the structure of the vertebrae in this area. First, they have a very small size and the least developed muscular system. Also, a very important artery passes through this segment of the spine, capable of supplying blood to the brain. Also, the cervical region should support the head and be very mobile. It is these features of the structure and location that can lead to cervical dorsopathy.

What are the pathologies?

First of all, it is worth paying attention to pathologies of a deforming nature. Their features lie in the occurrence of painful processes in the intervertebral discs, which subsequently lead to a violation of the spine itself. These include postural pathologies such as lordosis, scoliosis and kyphosis, as well as displacements of the vertebrae of various etymologies.

The next group of diseases is associated with inflammatory processes that occur already in the spine itself. In this case, the intervertebral discs are not involved, but the muscles and ligaments that are adjacent to the vertebrae become significantly inflamed and begin to hurt.

Another type of disease is discogenic dorsopathy. In the presence of such an ailment, only cartilage tissue is destroyed. Diseases of this nature include protrusions and hernias.

What is this ailment?

Dorsopathy of the cervical spine (ICD code belongs to the M50 category) usually occurs due to a strong load on the cervical region. As a result, the cartilage tissue, as well as the discs, begin to gradually deform. This process leads to pinching of many blood vessels, including the artery that supplies blood to the brain. Pathology will be characterized by severe pain that occurs not only in the neck, but also in nearby areas. Very often, patients complain of severe pain in the shoulder blades, chest and shoulders.

Keep in mind that such a disease can lead to very serious complications, so take care of your health right now.

Can neck problems occur in children?

Cervical dorsopathy (ICD-10 code is indicated in this article) can occur not only in adults and the elderly. Small children can also be affected by these diseases. In this case, the disease occurs in the children's category of the population is not so rare.

Quite often, neck diseases occur as a result of a difficult birth or injury at a very early age. Also, neck pathologies can occur as a complication after suffering severe infectious diseases.

Parents should pay attention to the posture of their child from a very early age. If necessary, it needs to be corrected and the spinal muscles strengthened. To do this, be sure to visit a doctor. The specialist will select a set of special exercises for the child, prescribe a course of wellness massage, and, if necessary, prescribe a corset to wear.

Dorsopathy of the cervical spine: how to recognize the presence of pathologies?

In fact, there are many symptoms that will indicate problems with the neck, and not always the patient can independently determine the type of disease present in him. Such symptoms can occur in the presence of other pathologies. Therefore, be sure to consult a specialist to determine the exact diagnosis and prescribe the most optimal treatment.

So, in the presence of such a type of pathology as cervical dorsopathy (ICD code - M50), the patient usually complains of weakness throughout the body and fatigue. This is due, first of all, to insufficient blood flow to the brain. Also, the patient may have a sharp deterioration in hearing and vision, and there may be constant dizziness. Sometimes patients complain of an acute and severe headache, accompanied not only by dizziness, but also by impaired coordination. There are pain sensations in the neck and adjacent areas. At the same time, it becomes very difficult to make movements with the neck itself, especially when playing sports.

If you notice any of the above symptoms, be sure to go to the hospital. After all, neck diseases can have very serious consequences, so treat cervical dorsopathy as early as possible.

The main causes of the development of the disease

Dorsopathy of the cervicothoracic region is not uncommon, so it is worth studying the reasons that lead to its occurrence. People who lead a sedentary lifestyle, as well as those who are excessively overweight, fall into a special risk group. Such a disease can occur due to malnutrition. Many people do not think about what they eat, so their diet does not include foods rich in minerals, which are so necessary to maintain spinal health.

Neck pain can be the result of injuries and bruises. Dorsopathy can begin to develop in childhood. And the reason for this will not be the tracking of parents for the posture of their baby.

Pathologies of the neck can occur due to the distribution of the wrong load on the spine. Women who carry heavy bags on one shoulder are at particular risk.

Do not exclude infectious diseases that can give severe complications, including on the spine. Also, people with a genetic predisposition can be affected by such diseases.

How is the diagnostic process carried out?

Of course, before making a diagnosis, the doctor must diagnose the state of health of his patient. If you have neck pain, see a vertebrologist. First of all, the specialist will collect a large amount of information from the patient's words, after which he will palpate in order to find painful areas, as well as to find those places where the muscle tissue began to thicken. After that, the doctor will send you for an x-ray, and, if necessary, for a magnetic resonance examination.

After carrying out such procedures, it is possible to accurately determine the type of dorsopathy, as well as determine the degree of its severity.

Cervical dorsopathy: treatment

If, nevertheless, the doctor has diagnosed you with such a diagnosis as dorsopathy, then be prepared for the fact that the treatment of this disease will take a long time, and most importantly, in a complex manner. According to statistics, patients who clearly follow all the recommendations of an experienced specialist were able to completely get rid of such an ailment as cervical dorsopathy in six months. What is it, you have already learned above. Now it is worth figuring out how to properly treat the disease.

Conservative treatment

First of all, get ready for the fact that the doctor will prescribe a large number of medications for you. Some of them are intended to relieve inflammation and pain. Others are muscle relaxants and chondroprotectors. Such drugs restore damaged areas of cartilage and bone tissue, and also improve muscle condition.

Healing procedures

Dorsopathy of the cervico-thoracic region is also very well treated through the use of various physiotherapeutic procedures. It is very important to perform the exercises selected by the doctor during treatment. They need to be done in order to strengthen the spine and the muscles adjacent to it. Also a very important stage of treatment is a massage and the use of ultrasound therapy. In the most advanced cases, good results are also shown by such a procedure as acupuncture. However, for its implementation, you need to find a very good and experienced specialist.

Treatment with folk methods

As mentioned above, cervical dorsopathy needs complex treatment. Only in this case can the disease be completely eliminated. A very good auxiliary treatment method is the use of home folk recipes. However, even in this case, it is not worth doing amateur activities. Tell your doctor about your plans, and he will help you choose the most optimal recipes for traditional medicine.

Homemade compresses and rubbing have a very good therapeutic effect. Often doctors recommend their patients just such recipes:

  • take a few leaves of lemon balm or horseradish. Steam them well, and apply to painful places. Do this just before going to bed. After it, it is advisable to wrap yourself up in a warm blanket;
  • tincture of eucalyptus. Take about fifty grams of the leaves of this plant and fill them with vodka. Before using such a rub, it should stand in a dark place for about a week. And only after that start the rubbing procedure. Apply the product on the skin with massage movements, and massage it until it turns red;
  • You can also try to prepare a medicinal compress. Plants that have a good calming effect are suitable for him. Here you may need birch leaves, lavender, yarrow and dandelion. You can collect all the listed plants yourself in ecologically clean places, or buy them at any pharmacy. Pour boiled water over the plants, let them brew, and then apply compresses to the painful areas. Also, aromatic teas can be prepared from these components. They will be invaluable during the healing process.

Preventive measures

Dorsopathy of the cervical spine, the treatment of which should be started after the first symptoms of the disease appear, is much easier to prevent than to treat later. Therefore, doctors recommend following several important recommendations that will help maintain the health of your neck for a long time.

First of all, experts recommend starting a healthy and more active lifestyle. Join a gym and start exercising. Yoga exercises have a very good effect on the human body, so be sure to try this type of spiritual practice for yourself. You will strengthen not only your body, but also your spirit. This is especially important for those people who spend most of their time behind a monitor screen or driving a car.

You also need to try to adjust your diet. Delete harmful foods from it and include healthy ones, with a high content of various trace elements and vitamins.

Dress warmly in the cold season, in order not to catch a cold neck. It is very important in frosty weather to wear a warm scarf around your neck. Lift heavy objects with extreme care. If you still have to do this, then make sure that the load on your back is even.

As you can see, maintaining a healthy neck is not difficult, so start taking care of yourself right now. Also, don't forget about your children. Form the right habits for them since childhood, and then in the future they will definitely not have problems with their back and neck. Take care of your health and take care of yourself, because your well-being depends on it!

Dorsopathies are a combination of pathologies of the spine, ligaments and muscular apparatus of the back. Pain in the cervical and thoracic regions, lower back, not provoked by diseases of the internal organs, and limited movement are a common symptom of these painful conditions.

Dorsopathy, as a rule, is provoked by inflammatory or degenerative processes of the intervertebral discs, muscles, ligaments and joints of the spinal column.

The involvement of nerve roots in these processes causes pain of a neurological nature. Depending on the location of the focus of pain, the disease is divided into dorsopathy of the thoracic, lumbar and cervical.

The appearance and development of dorsopathy is facilitated by such factors as osteochondrosis, injuries, a sedentary lifestyle, curvature of the spine, excess weight, regular colds; diseases of the stomach and a diet poor in vitamins and minerals; metabolic disorders, alcohol and nicotine abuse, work activities under harmful conditions, long-term body in uncomfortable positions.

There is also dorsopathy of the lumbar spine, find out what are the symptoms and how to treat this ailment.

"Dorsopathy of the cervical region" - what is it?

The cervical region is the part of the spine that is the most vulnerable due to its mobility and high load.

In terms of prevalence, cervical dorsopathy accounts for up to 10% of all dorsopathy. This pathology is caused by degenerative processes in the tissues of the cervical spine. The articular surface of the vertebrae grows, and they are deformed.

Over time, osteophytes are formed along their edges - sharp growths. The main reason for the appearance of dorsopathy is the wear and tear of the spine, its aging. Dorsopathy of the cervical region does not occur without damage to the intervertebral discs.

The connection between the first and second cervical vertebrae is broken, which leads to pinching of the artery that feeds the brain. The result can be an ischemic stroke.

Symptoms of cervical dorsopathy

Dorsopathy of the cervical spine is diagnosed by the following symptoms:

  • Throbbing headaches, which are localized for the most part in the back of the head and are aggravated by sharp turns and movements of the head
  • Severe pain in one or both arms, shoulders, between the shoulder blades
  • Noises in the head, dizziness
  • Visual disturbances: the appearance of "flies" and colored spots before the eyes
  • Weakness, fainting
  • Possible sleep disturbances
  • Poor coordination of movements, unsteadiness
  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Numbness of the fingers, coldness and swelling, weakness of the hands
  • Heart-like pains, palpitations, sweating
  • fluctuations in blood pressure

Dorsopathy treatment

For dorsopathy of the cervical region, the chronic course of the disease with periods of exacerbation is characteristic.

First of all, conservative treatment is carried out. It is aimed at relieving acute pain syndrome, restoring the functioning of the spinal nerve roots, and stopping the development of spinal pathology.

Treatment methods are very diverse and, as a rule, are used in combination.

At the stage of exacerbation, it is necessary to take anti-inflammatory drugs (diclofenac, nurofen), muscle relaxants that relieve muscle spasms, analgesics to relieve acute pain, and sedatives.

Bed rest is required, a neck corset is prescribed. Warming ointments are used to provide intense blood flow to the affected area and reduce swelling and inflammation. With insufficient effectiveness of the above funds, novocaine blockade is performed.

Dorsopathy is treated by stretching the spinal column, which allows you to release pinched nerve roots. There are also a number of physiotherapy procedures that help to cope with the disease: the Darsonval device, electrophoresis, ultrasound, phonophoresis and ultraviolet irradiation, massage and manual therapy, mud applications.

After the acute condition is removed, B vitamins, chondroprotectors, and vascular preparations are prescribed. At the same stage, therapeutic exercises are introduced into the treatment process.

In the presence of a hernia, surgery is required to restore the normal functioning of the spine.

Folk remedies

Some time-tested folk recipes can help in the treatment.

  • Bake from flour of any grain, but always coarsely ground unleavened cakes on the water. Apply them to the neck warm in the morning and evening.
  • Mix burdock rhizomes and dandelion roots, as well as St. John's wort in equal proportions. Boil a tablespoon of the collection in a glass of water. Strain and chill a little. Make a 15-minute warm compress on the neck. Then remove it, warm the neck with a scarf.
  • Steamed greens of lemon balm officinalis applied to sore spots.
  • Alcohol or vodka tincture of eucalyptus leaves (50 g of leaves per glass of alcohol or vodka) is used for rubbing.
  • Apply steamed fresh or dried horseradish leaves to the neck.
  • Cold tincture of marshmallow roots is used in the form of compresses. Three teaspoons of medicinal raw materials insist 8 hours on a glass of cold boiling water.
  • Useful fees from medicinal herbs: St. John's wort, dandelion, yarrow, plantain, elecampane, birch leaves and lavender. It should be remembered that treatment with phyto-collections lasts at least 2–3 months, followed by a two-week break and a change in the collection.

Exercises

Balanced therapeutic exercises help to eliminate muscle tension, compression of the nerve roots, strengthen muscles and increase the elasticity of the ligaments.

Blood supply and metabolic processes in the spine are also activated:

  1. In a standing position, straight or sitting freely, with arms relaxed and lowered down, slowly turn your head in both directions: to the right and to the left. It is necessary to make from 5 to 10 turns. Such movements allow you to increase the mobility of the vertebrae of the neck. The intensity of movements must be limited and painful sensations controlled.
  2. In a standing position, straight or sitting freely, with arms relaxed and lowered down, slowly lower your head, trying to touch your chest with your chin and feel the chest notch. Repeat the movement 5 to 10 times. Such movements increase the mobility of the spine and help stretch the muscles of the neck.
  3. Slowly tilting the head to the back with the back of the head. Do 5 repetitions.
  4. Sitting and standing straight, smoothly take your head back, while pulling your chin. Do 5-10 repetitions. This exercise is highly recommended for sedentary people, as it corrects their working posture, stretches the tight muscles of the back of the neck. Perform this kind of movement should be regularly in between work.
  5. Exercises to strengthen the muscles of the neck, recommended for chronic forms of dorsopathy: try to tilt your head alternately forward, backward and to both sides in turn, counteracting the movement with your palms. It is necessary to apply pressure with the head on the palms for about 10 seconds and after resting repeat, in total, perform 10 times in each direction.
  6. Raise your shoulders to the maximum possible level and linger for 10 seconds. Then lower, feeling the heaviness of the hands, and rest for 10 seconds. Repeat five times.

Prevention of dorsopathy is a healthy regimen, rational nutrition and physical activity. An excellent help in order to prevent the disease is therapeutic massage.

Professional activities associated with physical stress, head tilts and emotional overload, as well as work at height and moving mechanisms are contraindicated.

The cervical spine is a vulnerable spot. Large loads, injuries and diseases have a negative effect on the muscles and bones of the neck, so the development of pathology is a frequent occurrence. How to detect dorsopathy and what to do to eliminate it?

Description and classification of dorsopathy of the cervical spine

Dorsopathy is a condition that occurs due to wear of the intervertebral discs and the formation of pathological changes in the paravertebral and cartilaginous tissues. Inflammatory processes in the cervical region occur in 10% of cases. Neck injury is a dangerous condition, which is associated with possible complications:

  • spinal cord injury;
  • compression of the cervical spinal cord;
  • deterioration in the blood supply to the brain;
  • development of cerebral ischemia or stroke. Pathologies of the cervical spine often lead to dangerous complications, such as cerebral ischemia and stroke.

According to the classification, which is based on specific lesions, the following types of pathology are distinguished:

  1. Deforming dorsopathy. The lesion is associated with displacement of the spine, curvature of the spinal column, osteochondrosis, kyphosis, scoliosis and osteoporosis.
  2. Discogenic dorsopathy. It is formed during pathological changes in cartilage tissues, leads to the development of hernia and protrusions (the initial stage of an intervertebral hernia).
  3. Vertebrogenic form (spondylopathy dorsopathy). The presented type is formed after injuries or diseases that disrupt the structure of bone tissue. Pathology is in the affected vertebra.

Depending on the duration of the course of the disease, the following types are distinguished:

  • acute (up to 3 weeks);
  • subacute (from 3 to 12 weeks);
  • chronic (more than 12 weeks).

What is dorsopathy of the cervical spine - video

Causes and risk factors

The causes of the formation of dorsopathy are associated with many factors that negatively affect the general condition of the patient and the cervical region:

  • frequent stress;
  • hypothermia and colds;
  • advanced age and resulting disc wear;
  • heredity;
  • violation of metabolic processes;
  • excess weight;
  • a sedentary lifestyle (especially a long stay in one position);
  • decrease in the protective functions of the body;
  • heavy loads;
  • labor activity, which is associated with frequent stay on the street during bad weather and vibration during work (builders, road workers);
  • the presence of infectious foci in the body;
  • injuries and injuries of the spine;
  • abuse of alcoholic beverages and smoking;
  • endocrine diseases;
  • improper nutrition.

Diseases of the musculoskeletal system also lead to the destruction of the tissues of the spine:

  • spondylosis - proliferation of bone tissue and deformation of the vertebrae;
  • infectious myositis - a purulent process that occurs in muscle tissue;
  • disk deformation; Intervertebral hernia is a common cause leading to the destruction of spinal tissues
  • intervertebral hernia;
  • various curvature of the spine;
  • spondylolisthesis - displacement of the vertebrae relative to each other;
  • inflammatory processes of the nerve roots;
  • tumors in the vertebra;
  • diseases of the joints and bones;
  • rheumatoid arthritis is a pathology in which articular tissue is destroyed.

Symptoms and signs

Many patients confuse the signs of dorsopathy, mistaking its manifestations for symptoms of overwork. This leads to the development of severe forms of pathology, which are difficult to treat.

The main manifestation of the pathology is pain in the neck. In some cases, the pain extends to the areas of the shoulders and shoulder blades, the muscles are often tense.

In order not to start the disease, you need to pay attention to the following manifestations:

  • violation of motor activity;
  • insomnia;
  • throbbing pain in the head and dizziness;
  • unpleasant signs in the area of ​​​​the shoulder blades and heart;
  • fainting;
  • spasms in muscle tissue after performing sudden movements, sneezing and coughing;
  • goosebumps on the surface of the skin;
  • increased pain after physical activity;
  • increase or decrease in blood pressure;
  • noise in ears;
  • blurred vision or hearing;
  • decrease in sensitivity;
  • restriction of freedom of action of the head, shoulder joint and limbs.

Diagnostics

If these signs appear, you should immediately seek medical help. The doctor will study the patient's complaints, examine the patient in the supine position, sitting and standing, and determine the amplitude of possible movements in the neck. With dorsopathy, a specialist will detect protrusions of processes, displacement of the shoulder blades and curvature of the spinal column.

To detect the cause of the formation of pathology, it is imperative to prescribe methods of instrumental and laboratory diagnostics:

  1. Clinical and biochemical blood tests - reveal inflammation that contributed to the development of dorsopathy.
  2. Radiography - detects the processes of destruction and existing pathologies, for example, osteochondrosis.
  3. Computed tomography - determines the nature of the inflammatory process.

Computed tomography is aimed at studying the nature of the disease

Differential diagnosis - table

  • pain is the main symptom. It can be in the neck, in the back of the head, temples, behind the ears and in the shoulder girdle, aggravated after physical exertion and at night;
  • loss of mobility of the cervical region, in severe cases - complete inability to turn or tilt the head;
  • the discomfort;
  • numbness in the arms or neck;
  • noise in ears;
  • pain in the region of the heart;
  • visible deformity of the spine;
  • difficulty in moving fingers, hands, loss of sensation, paralysis.
  • dull (rarely acute) pain in the neck, more often in the morning, after sleeping in an uncomfortable position (patients often say that they are “blown away”);
  • pain radiates to the back of the head, ear, face and temple (with lesions of the upper cervical spine) or in the shoulder, especially in the suprascapular region (with lesions of the lower cervical spine), while spreading to the arm is not characteristic;
  • increased pain during movement and its weakening at rest;
  • on examination - neck muscle tension, unilateral soreness in the projection of the affected joint;
  • there are no changes on radiographs.
  • severe pain in the back of the head, especially in the morning;
  • painful sensations are observed in the back of the head, in the shoulder girdle, in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe eyes and ears;
  • discomfort and limited mobility of the neck, especially when turning the head;
  • crackling in the neck;
  • dizziness;
  • due to lesions of the nerve endings, pain may spread to the arm, often weakness, numbness and tingling.
  • acute onset after exercise, awkward movement, or injury;
  • increased pain in the neck and arm when coughing, sneezing, straining, tilting the head and turning it to the affected side;
  • "Forced" position of the head with a slight tilt forward and to the side opposite to the localization of pain.
  • neck pain is provoked by a minor injury, unsuccessful movement, hypothermia, prolonged stay in an uncomfortable position (including during sleep);
  • in some patients, there is a constant nature of pain, discomfort increases with extension of the neck and / or inclination towards a more affected joint;
  • when the upper cervical joints are involved, the pain radiates in the back of the head and forehead, the mid-cervical joints - in the area of ​​the shoulder girdle and shoulder, the lower cervical - in the scapula and interscapular region;
  • limitation of mobility of the cervical spine, especially during extension;
  • palpation (palpation) of the facet joints is painful (usually on both sides);
  • X-ray signs of spondylosis are detected (decreased IVD height, osteophytes, arthrosis of the facet joints).

Treatment is carried out in a medical way. In rare cases, an operation is prescribed. This applies to the threat to life and the risk of disability as a result of the following factors:

  • spinal cord compression (disturbance of sensitivity and motor function due to trauma or pathological process);
  • spondylolisthesis;
  • severe injury.

Medical therapy

The therapy program is developed on an individual basis, so self-administration of drugs is prohibited. The doctor takes into account the severity of the disease, the physiological characteristics of the patient and the development of complications.

Complex therapy includes the following drugs:

  1. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) - relieve pain and inflammation (Diclofenac, Movalis and Ketoprofen - are used in the form of ointments and injections).
  2. Chondroprotectors - restore damaged tissues and prevent their destruction (Struktum, Alflutop).
  3. Muscle relaxants - immobilize the damaged area, therefore, are effective for eliminating spasm and pain during involuntary movements (Sirdalud, Mydocalm, Baclofen).
  4. Angioprotectors and vasodilating drugs - improve blood circulation (Piracetam, Actovegin, Pentoxifylline, Eufillin).
  5. Vitamins A, E and C, nicotinic acid and vitamin B complex (Milgamma) - restore the activity of the nervous system, improve tissue metabolism and slow down oxidative processes.

Medicines for the treatment of disease - gallery

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy treatment is aimed at improving blood circulation and metabolism in tissues. In addition, the technique eliminates inflammatory processes.

Important! You must first consult with your doctor. There are contraindications.

For the treatment of dorsopathy of the cervical spine are prescribed:

  • electrophoresis with drugs - eliminates the inflammatory process and pain syndrome;
  • ultrasound - prevents the development of inflammation and pain;
  • magnetotherapy - reduces pain;
  • thermal procedures (paraffin applications, microwave therapy, inductothermy) - eliminate pain;
  • sun and air baths - start the recovery process and increase immunity.

The procedure is aimed at strengthening the neck and restoring its functions. After the massage, metabolic processes improve, blood circulation increases and the tone of muscle tissue returns to normal. In addition, therapy improves performance and prevents the reappearance of cervical dorsopathy.

In the acute period, massage eliminates pain, and during rehabilitation it accelerates the recovery of the body.

For treatment, the following actions are used:

  • massaging the neck muscles and upper limbs;
  • rubbing and stroking the shoulder and interscapular regions;
  • kneading different muscle groups (trapezius, rhomboid, rectifier);
  • stroking the cervical region for relaxation;
  • rubbing the shoulder and neck areas (kneading, grasping and pinching with three fingers).

Manipulations should be carried out by a highly qualified specialist who knows the subtleties and features of not only massage, but also the disease. Do not perform the procedure for acute pain and hernia.

Massage should be carried out only by a specialist, but it is allowed to massage the neck on your own, performing light movements

Physiotherapy

The exercise therapy complex improves blood circulation and general well-being of the patient. Exercises are selected by a specialist based on the severity of the disease and the individual characteristics of the organism.

The main rule of treatment with exercise therapy is to follow the recommendations and the smooth implementation of the elements.

Each exercise is performed 5-6 times. Starting position: sitting or standing, arms relaxed and located along the body. Necessary:

  1. Slowly turn your head left and right.
  2. Lower your head down, pressing your chin to your chest.
  3. Slowly tilt your head back.

Acupuncture and reflexology

The acupuncture procedure is useful for cervical dorsopathy. As a result of therapy, spasms are relieved and blood vessels expand, which leads to improved nutrition of neck tissues, muscle relaxation.

For treatment, special needles are used, which are injected into acupuncture points. The patient feels a slight tingling sensation, you should not be afraid of painful sensations. However, some rules must be taken into account:

  • before the session, you should empty your bladder;
  • it is not recommended to carry out the procedure while taking medication;
  • it is forbidden to come to an acupuncture session after a "hearty lunch";
  • it is necessary to notify the specialist about all the procedures and means used for treatment.

With the help of reflexology, they also affect certain points of a person. The following methods are used:

  • auricular or corporal acupuncture - for pain syndrome;
  • laser reflexotherapy - to eliminate dystrophic processes;
  • electropuncture - with muscle hypotrophy (insufficient nutrition of muscle tissue);
  • reflex stimulation or irrigation of the skin with chlorethyl - with muscle tension.

Possible consequences and complications

Lack of timely treatment or late detection of pathology can lead to the development of complications. With dorsopathy of the cervical region, the risk of the following consequences is high:

  1. Syndrome of the vertebral artery. There are spasmodic pains in the cervical artery. The patient gets tired quickly, suffers from impaired hearing, vision and frequent dizziness.
  2. Myelopathic syndrome. Leads to compression (squeezing) of the spinal cord. The patient loses sensitivity, partial paralysis occurs, problems with defecation and urination are observed.
  3. Vegetovascular dystonia. The condition is associated with a malfunction of the peripheral nervous system, which is responsible for the performance of organs. The patient often "jumps" pressure, cardiac arrhythmia is observed, sweating increases and there is nervous overexcitation.

Prevention

Preventive measures are aimed at preventing the development of dorsopathy. The following recommendations must be observed:

  1. Eat right. Avoid junk food and bad habits.
  2. Control body weight. Excess weight refers to additional loads for the spinal column.
  3. To live an active lifestyle. However, you should not overdo it. Swimming and hanging on the bar are useful for the spinal column and neck muscles.
  4. Choose appropriate clothing for outdoor activities. Dress according to weather conditions.
  5. Perform all actions carefully and smoothly, especially when lifting heavy objects.

Gradually, he began to notice inattention, then a decrease in intellectual abilities, a bad mood, poor sleep, after which he began to cope very badly with work and study. I did not know what the reason was, I did not immediately go to the doctor. The neuropathologist prescribed vascular therapy, passed, the effect is temporary. But I continued to sleep in the same way. My head gradually became cottony, and I thought very badly and slowly. I did an MRI, ultrasound of the vessels of the brain and neck - everything is in order, there are no hernias. And REG revealed a significant decrease in blood flow on the left. In general, I decided to go to the exercise therapy doctor (set: cervical dorsopathy), and I was prescribed special therapeutic exercises. There is an effect.

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It is very dangerous to treat dorsopathy of the cervical spine with disdain. After all, the condition can lead to serious complications. If specific symptoms appear, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Otherwise, dorsopathy will become chronic, and pain and discomfort will become permanent.

In contact with

- a set of inflammatory processes occurring in the vertebrae, discs, blood vessels, nerve fibers and muscle tissues of the neck. Such destructive-dystrophic processes of the spine are most often detected in young people who work in the office and lead an inactive lifestyle - from 30 to 50 years. What are the symptoms of this insidious disease, one of the most common in all countries of the world? How and with what are those who have been diagnosed with it treated?

Types of dorsopathy and the causes of its occurrence

Dorsopathy of the cervical spine, depending on the type of damage to the sections of the spinal column, can be:

  1. deforming. Occurs against the background of a strong curvature of the spine, osteochondrosis and a clear displacement of the discs. This form is characterized by distant and strictly local neurological and autonomic symptoms. The patient complains of attacks of pain, sometimes strong, sometimes fading, lack of sensitivity in the upper limbs and paresthesia (tingling of the skin in the area of ​​​​the palms).
  2. Vertebrogenic. It becomes the result of injuries and diseases that affect bone tissue - osteomyelitis, spondylosis, various types of tumors, infectious myositis, rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammations in the spine.
  3. Discogenic. It is considered one of the most dangerous forms - arising from mechanical ruptures and protrusions towards the fibrous ring, it threatens the development of an intervertebral hernia.

Depending on the level of prevalence, cervical dorsopathy is limited, polysegmental and widespread. Limited is characterized by damage to one segment of the spinal column, common - several, going in a row, polysegmental - several located in different parts of the spine.

In ICD-10, dorsopathy of the cervical spine is assigned the code M50.

Destruction of spinal tissues can begin as a result of tissue hypotrophy that occurs against the background of muscle spasms and injuries sustained during physical exertion.

Long-term static position leads to spasms - drivers of vehicles and office workers are at risk. The blood vessels, through which the tissues of the spine receive nutrients, are partially pinched and the cartilage and bones cease to receive the amount of oxygen they need. Cartilaginous hypoxia and malnutrition develops, bone tissue destruction begins.

The traumatic form of dorsopathy of the cervical spine develops against the background of regular physical exertion, in which the vector of application of force has the wrong direction.

Most often, the disease is diagnosed in athletes who technically incorrectly perform strength exercises, as well as in workers of heavy physical labor - loaders, laborers, miners.

Symptoms of the disease and methods of its diagnosis

The first signs of the disease appear long before organic changes begin to occur at the cervical level of the spine. With a spasmodic form of dorsopathy, the patient complains of a feeling of tension in the back, the presence of pulling and aching pain, which is aggravated by palpation of the diseased area.

Neck massage, doing exercises on the bar, resting in the “lying” position can relieve the symptoms of an incipient disease, but after a while the pain syndrome returns again. The disease progresses, the pain intensifies and becomes constant.

With inflammation of the roots of the spinal nerves, turning the head becomes difficult - painful shootings appear. In addition, the patient complains of:

  • headache;
  • paresthesia;
  • loss of sensitivity of the skin in the affected area;
  • inability to tilt and turn the head.

Particularly severe cases are characterized by atrophy of the cervical muscles and a decrease in their functionality. And it becomes noticeable even with a visual inspection.

The patient is diagnosed on the basis of his complaints and present clinical symptoms. On palpation of the affected area, the doctor notes an increase in its soreness against the background of an existing decrease in the sensitivity of the skin. However, only the result of an MRI or CT scan of the cervical spine can confirm the diagnosis. The same studies will help to accurately determine the degree of destruction and determine the areas of the spinal column affected by the disease.

Treatment

The fight against such a serious disease as cervical dorsopathy is carried out by three main methods:

  • medication;
  • with the use of physiotherapy;
  • using the methods of physical therapy.

Medication treatment

The goal of medical treatment is to prevent the development of pathology. The patient, in accordance with the doctor's prescription, should take Baclofen or Mydocalm - drugs that reduce the tone of the striated and smooth muscles.

If the patient's spinal tissues are affected and there is a pronounced pain syndrome, he is prescribed tablets, ointments or injections of orthofen, diclofenac and MiG. All of these drugs quickly relieve inflammation and relieve pain.

In especially severe cases, when the foci of pathology are voluminous, and the pain is unbearable, the patient may be prescribed narcotic drugs - tramal or promedol.

To slow down tissue destruction and speed up the process of its recovery, the doctor prescribes a course of treatment with chondroprotectors (teraflex) to the patient. Clinical trials that could demonstrate the effect of taking these drugs have not been conducted. Therefore, some experts question the need for their use. However, there are a huge number of examples that clearly prove the importance of chondroprotectors for the rapid restoration of cartilage tissue. Especially if the patient combines the intake of these drugs with physiotherapy exercises.

Physiotherapy treatment

Physiotherapy helps relieve spasms and reduce inflammation, fights pain and slows down the process of destruction of intervertebral discs and vertebrae. And it even helps to stop the course of the disease if it was carried out in a timely manner and the bone structures have not yet begun to collapse. The most popular and effective physiotherapy methods are:

  1. electrophoresis- thanks to the use of a constant electric current, it allows you to deliver drugs directly to the area of ​​\u200b\u200binflammation. Necessary for the introduction of hormones, anti-inflammatory drugs, relaxants. The effectiveness of this method does not cause the slightest doubt - it is more effective than creams and ointments. However, enteral and injectable forms, nevertheless, make it possible to achieve great success in the fight against cervical dorsopathy.
  2. Mud therapy- treatment for special purposes with therapeutic mud containing minerals and hormone-like substances. It is used in the conditions of sanatoriums, dispensaries and resort areas.
  3. UHF- a method based on the action of an electromagnetic field. Allows you to fight inflammation, improves blood and lymph flow, normalizes the exchange of fluids in cells and the vascular bed, relieves swelling.
  4. Laser therapy- a procedure aimed at reducing the rate of development of dorsopathy. The bottom line is the impact on the focus of pathology with low-intensity laser radiation, but the effectiveness of the method has not been proven.

Patients who know firsthand about dorsopathy of the cervicothoracic spine and organic lesions of the cervical spine know for sure that physiotherapy is not a panacea for their disease. And it can be applied only outside the exacerbation of the disease.

exercise therapy

Physiotherapy exercises help to correct well-being in most diseases of the spinal column. However, you need to perform certain exercises carefully and in full accordance with the recommendations of your doctor. A specialist, selecting a sports complex, will take into account the patient's condition, the level of his physical fitness, the depth of damage to the anatomical structures of the spine.

And do not forget that the main goal of such exercises is prevention, and exercise therapy can only be done during the period of remission.

The exercises recommended to the patient are aimed at stretching the spine. Thanks to such activities, blood circulation and circulation of fluids in the affected area improves. But exercise is a must. supervised by a doctor- When pain occurs, classes should be stopped immediately.

Preventive actions

An active lifestyle and regular exercise is what will help avoid the occurrence of dorsopathy of the cervical spine. Or will be able to stop the development of the disease, if it is already diagnosed. First of all, office workers need to remember this - hourly five-minute warm-ups should become a mandatory item in their work schedule. It is not difficult to prevent the occurrence of such a disease as atrophy of the vertebral structures. The main thing is prevention and control of your health. And at the first symptoms of the disease - immediately consult a doctor.