Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is a pathology that more often than others becomes the cause of neck pain. It is important to diagnose the disease in time and start treatment, which, among other things, includes neck gymnastics for osteochondrosis. It will help to strengthen the muscular corset, form the correct posture and prevent the development of possible complications.
Diagnosis and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis
The development of the disease itself can be suspected by the appearance of pain, discomfort in the neck region, which intensifies when turning, tilting the head, prolonged standing in an uncomfortable position, hypothermia. It is important to differentiate cervical spine osteochondrosis from median nerve compressive neuropathy. Experts from the faculty of medicine believe that in 48. 5% of cases the diagnosis is made incorrectly.
With regard to treatment, the greatest efficiency is demonstrated by biological products in combination with special therapeutic and recreational gymnastics exercises. Such conclusions were reached by scientists who published the results of their research in the Georgian Medical News Journal.
Physiotherapy exercises for the neck
Physical therapy for cervical osteochondrosis includes the following exercises:
- Tilted head. Stand or sit in a chair with your back straight. Slowly tilt your head toward your right shoulder, feeling the tension in your neck muscles. Freeze motionless in this position for a few seconds and perform the exercise in the other direction, that is, lean towards the opposite shoulder.
- The head turns. Lower your head, trying to touch the recess with your chin - the jugular fossa. To enhance the effect, you can exert influence on the back of the head with cross brushes. Remain at the point of greatest tension for a few seconds and then begin turning your head - first in one direction, sliding your chin along the top of your sternum and then in the other.
- Raise and lower your shoulders. Stand with your arms at your sides and start lifting and lowering your shoulders. To improve the effect, you can increase the load, and small dumbbells will help with this. Alternatively, you can fill plastic bottles with water or sand.
- Circular movements with the shoulders. This exercise is very similar to the previous one. The only difference is that the shoulders don't have to be raised and lowered, but done in a circular motion. Keep your spine straight.
- Stretching. Stand or sit in a chair with your back straight. Place your arms crossed behind your head. Bring your head back while offering resistance with your hands. Measure at the highest voltage point for a few seconds.
- Flexion. This is similar to the previous exercise, only it is performed in the opposite direction. It is necessary to place your arms crossed on your forehead and begin to lower your head, opposing it with your hands. Measure at the point of highest tension for a few seconds.
The exercises should be performed smoothly, without haste, in rhythm with the breath. If severe pain or other uncomfortable sensations develop, stop classes and consult a doctor about it.