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 a timely manner and begin treatment, which includes, among other things, neck exercises for osteochondrosis. It helps to strengthen the muscle corset, form correct posture and prevent the development of possible complications.
Diagnosis and therapy of cervical osteochondrosis
One can suspect the development of the disease in oneself from the appearance of pain, discomfort in the neck area, which intensifies when turning, tilting the head, prolonged stay in an uncomfortable position, hypothermia. It is important to distinguish osteochondrosis of the cervical spine from compression neuropathy of the median nerve. Experts at the Medical University assume that in 48. 5% of cases the diagnosis is wrongly made.
In terms of treatment, biological products in combination with special therapeutic and recreational gymnastics exercises are most effective. Such conclusions were reached by scientists who published their research results in the journal Georgian Medical News.
Physiotherapy exercises for the neck
Physiotherapy for cervical osteochondrosis includes the following exercises:
- Head tilts. Stand up straight or sit in a chair with your back straight. Slowly tilt your head towards your right shoulder and feel the tension in your neck muscles. Remain motionless in this position for a few seconds and do the exercise in the other direction, i. e. tilt to the opposite shoulder.
- Head turns. Lower your head down and try to touch the indentation with your chin - the jugular fossa. To increase the effect, you can use crossed brushes to influence the back of the head. Linger at the point of greatest tension for a few seconds and then start turning your head - first in one direction, sliding your chin along the upper part of the sternum, then in the other.
- Raising and lowering the shoulders. Stand straight with your arms by your sides and start raising and lowering your shoulders. To increase the effect, you can increase the load, and small dumbbells will help. 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 do not have to be lifted up and down, but performed in circular motions. Keep your back straight.
- Stretch. Stand up straight or sit in a chair with your back straight. Place your crossed arms at the back of your head. Pull your head back while resisting it with your hands at the same time. Measure for a few seconds at the highest voltage point.
- Diffraction. This is similar to the previous exercise but is done in the opposite direction. It is necessary to put your crossed arms on your forehead and lower your head down, facing your hands. Measure for a few seconds at the point of highest voltage.
The exercises must be performed smoothly, without rushing and in time with your breathing. If you experience severe pain or other uncomfortable sensations, stop class and consult a doctor.