Pain in the neck and back of the head, radiating to the head, with osteochondrosis, causes and treatment

12 April 2021

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2.5 out of 5

Neck pain is a very common problem. After all, according to medical statistics, more than 70% of people experience this periodically or regularly. Nevertheless, there are many reasons that can provoke pain of varying intensity in the neck. Most of them lie in diseases of the cervical spine. At the same time, the characteristics of pain, its localization, and the nature of other existing symptoms are important diagnostic signs that help to correctly determine what triggered them and prescribe treatment appropriate to the situation. It is very important to identify the disease causing pain in the neck as early as possible and take measures to eliminate it, since they can cause severe complications, including disability.

Types of pain and causes

Cervicalgia or neck pain can be of varying intensity and nature, persist for different periods of time and be accompanied by other deviations from the norm. Determining the type of pain has important diagnostic value, as it helps to find out what caused it.

So, pain can be either mild or acute, burning in nature and significantly poison a person’s life. Very often it begins with a lumbago, after which persistent pain sets in. In general, pain can be aching, stabbing, throbbing, pressing, etc.

Very often they tend to intensify during movements, in particular when tilting the head or turning. Also, the pain syndrome can gain strength when remaining immobilized for a long time, especially in an uncomfortable position. Therefore, people often complain of neck pain after prolonged work at the computer. In such situations, you can often notice that the patient turns his whole body in response to the response, trying to keep his neck motionless.

In addition to the nature and intensity, neck pain can persist for different periods of time. They may be episodic, pass quickly, or be present continuously over a long period. In the first case, they speak of acute pain, while if it persists for more than 10 days, chronic pain syndrome is diagnosed.

All neck pain can be divided into vertebrogenic and non-vertebrogenic. The former are a consequence of the occurrence of pathological changes in the structures of the cervical spine. This in itself provokes discomfort in the neck, and can also be complicated by the development of radicular syndrome as a result of compression of the spinal roots passing through the vertebrae. Since the transmission of nerve impulses along compressed nerves is disrupted, this causes the appearance of characteristic symptoms, the combination of which is combined under the term “radicular syndrome”:

sharp pain in the neck, radiating to the back of the head, shoulders, arms, including hands and fingers;
numbness, crawling sensation and other sensory disturbances in the same areas of the body;
movement disorders, which is manifested by a decrease in the amplitude of movements or the inability to make previously habitual movements.

If the development of pathological changes in the spine leads to compression of the large blood vessels (vertebral arteries) passing through the cervical vertebrae, patients may suffer from severe headaches and attacks of dizziness, which can result in loss of consciousness. This is due to disturbances in the nutrition of the brain, which are more pronounced the more one or both vertebral arteries are compressed.

Nonvertebrogenic pains are those that are a consequence of disorders that do not have a direct connection with the spine. Their appearance can be provoked by diseases of the thyroid gland, lymph nodes, infections, inflammatory processes in the muscles, etc.

Whatever the pain, it cannot be ignored, since in this way the body signals problems in the condition of the cervical vertebrae, the intervertebral discs located between them, the neck muscles, the thyroid gland or other anatomical structures.

Thus, there are quite a few types of neck pain. Very often there is a sharp pain. In the vast majority of cases, it indicates the development of radicular syndrome, but the reasons for its occurrence may be different . Let's take a closer look at them.

Protrusions and intervertebral hernias

Degenerative-dystrophic changes in the intervertebral discs of the cervical spine or osteochondrosis are a widespread phenomenon. They are a consequence of a sedentary lifestyle and are especially typical for representatives of “sedentary” professions, who can develop even at a fairly young age.

In such situations, the cartilage, which is essentially the intervertebral discs, gradually becomes dehydrated. This leads to a decrease in their height and bringing the vertebral bodies closer together. This in itself may be accompanied by pain. But a sharp pain in the neck appears at the moment of irritation or compression of the spinal roots passing here by the disc or the bone structure of the spine. They branch from the spinal cord at the level of each of the vertebrae and are responsible for the innervation of the upper extremities, ENT organs and some others.

Dehydration of the discs leads to a decrease in the elasticity of the fibers that form their outer shell (annulus fibrosus). As a result, they are more easily damaged, and under the influence of daily stress they receive micro-tears. As the number of such microscopic breaks increases, the strength of the fibrous ring decreases and in the most vulnerable place it becomes deformed and protrudes into the spinal canal, where the spinal cord and the roots extending from it pass. Since the thickness of the spinal canal in the cervical spine is especially small, even small protrusions of the intervertebral discs can compress the spinal roots, which provokes sharp pain in the neck.

When the protrusion is located in the center of the spinal canal, it can make itself felt for quite a long time only by short-term aching, dull pain in the neck. But in the absence of treatment, regardless of the position of the protrusion, the deformation of the disc worsens, the protrusion increases in size and an increasing number of fibers forming the fibrous ring are torn. Ultimately, its integrity in this place is disrupted and the internal contents of the intervertebral disc extend beyond the fibrous ring. This is called a herniated disc. Gradually, the hernia increases and sooner or later it infringes on the spinal roots, becoming the cause of radicular syndrome with its sharp pain in the cervical spine, radiating to the arms, etc.

Protrusions and hernias can also compress the vertebral arteries, causing the appearance of characteristic symptoms: headaches, dizziness, etc.

Spondylosis

Spondylosis is another possible consequence of degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs. This disease is characterized by the formation of bony protrusions on the vertebral bodies, which are called osteophytes. They form in response to a decrease in the height of the intervertebral disc and increase as the disease progresses.

Osteophytes have sharp edges and over time tend to fuse with those located on the body of the underlying vertebra. This leads to injury to the spinal roots, which is accompanied by severe pain in the neck, which tends to persist for a long time. If left untreated, osteophytes grow together, uniting the bodies of adjacent vertebrae into a single whole. This not only sharply reduces the mobility of the cervical spine, but also leads to severe pain, since the bone structures strongly compress the spinal roots. Ultimately, this can lead to their death and, accordingly, serious disruptions in the functioning of the organs and parts of the body innervated by them, including paralysis. The vertebral arteries may be similarly affected.

Vertebral compression fractures

A compression fracture of a vertebra is a decrease in its height in one part, as a result of which it acquires a wedge-shaped shape. This can not only be a consequence of injury or blow, but also occur independently against the background of osteoporosis, for example, with a sharp tilt of the head.

Because osteoporosis, or decreased bone density, is most common in older people, non-traumatic compression fractures are more common in them.

Violation of the anatomy of the vertebra leads to various disorders, one of which can also be compression of the nerve roots. A compression fracture itself is almost always accompanied by sharp pain in the cervical spine, and if the spinal root is damaged, it will persist until the normal size of the vertebra is restored.

In isolated cases, compression fractures occur almost unnoticed by patients, which is mainly typical for older people. But subsequently they can also lead to severe pain in the neck.

Myofascial syndrome

Myofascial syndrome is a disease accompanied by the occurrence of severe spasms of individual muscles in response to touch or physical activity. This leads to sharp, severe pain. Myofascial syndrome becomes a consequence of prolonged static muscle tension, uneven distribution of load on the neck or pinched nerves.

How to use the applicator, application zones

In 90% of cases it is necessary to act on the pain zone, and to increase efficiency on additional and auxiliary zones.

The general formulation should always include the core area (spine area).

The main zones are located on the back surface of the torso, head, and neck.

They are named the main ones due to the fact that the areas of skin on both sides of the spine and directly above the spine are closest to the exits of the roots of the cranial and spinal nerves and other structures.

Very important meridians also pass here, which influence all organs and systems of the body in the area in which they pass, control a person’s protective energy, and influence his resistance to diseases.

Thus, multi-needle multi-metal exposure is desirable and most effective on the area of the skin surface above the spine to the right and left of the spinal column and on the back surface of the torso, head and neck. You can apply it to the spine itself.

The choice of the most important area (zone, strip, segment) of the skin on the posterior surface of the body will depend on the main diagnosis, pathology, area of damage to certain organs, and the level of segmental innervation of these organs.

In the methodological recommendations for the use of Lyapko's application therapy, a schematic drawing is always given for each disease indicating the required areas of application.

Auxiliary zones are the anterior surface of the torso, head and neck. Due to the fact that the internal organs and endocrine glands are located directly under the anterior abdominal wall, under the chest, in the neck, face, exposure to them or to individual skin areas (metameres) in these areas using different metal needle applicators helps regulate, normalization, restoration, improvement and activation of the activities of these bodies. The result is achieved faster when using auxiliary zones simultaneously with the main and additional zones.

Accessory zones: zones of the skin of the lower and upper extremities, which are secondary (peripheral) in relation to the (central) structures of the spinal cord and brain. On the inner and outer surfaces of the arms and legs there are zones of “Yin” (female) and “Yang” (male) groups of channels - meridians of organs that have different groups of points that differ in purpose.

Using for applications and influencing various groups of points of certain meridian channels, we have the opportunity to further regulate (change, enhance or decrease) the activity of certain organs and systems (general action). Thus, we intensify the work when applying Lyapko applicators to the main and auxiliary zones and additionally provide a therapeutic effect.

Additional (zones of the skin of the lower and upper extremities) and auxiliary zones (the anterior surface of the torso, head and neck) should also be used in cases where, for a number of reasons, it is impossible to influence the main zone (plaster applied, wound surface). To enhance the therapeutic effect, it is advisable to include in the formulation an effect on symmetrical areas of the healthy side.

Thus, the result is achieved faster when using the main zones simultaneously with additional and auxiliary zones, or if this is not possible, then alternately.

Areas of application for neck pain (Fig. 1): main 2, 3; auxiliary 1, 4, 12, 13; additional 20, 22, 28, 31.

Fig.1

The following applicators are recommended. Flat applicators: “Romashka M”, “Chance”, “Needle massage pillow”, “Kvadro”, “Narodny”, “Sputnik plus”, “Insoles plus”, “Speckled”.

Application belts: “Baby”, “Universal M”, “Magic ribbon “Health”. Considering the flexibility and elasticity, small pitch of needles 4.3 of the Magic Tape “Health”, it is very comfortable to use on the neck area.

Application rollers: “Face roller M”, “Universal roller M”, “Big roller M”, “Needle ball”.

In the morning and afternoon, roll the cervical-collar area of the back, head, front surface of the body, and also influence the auxiliary areas on the arms and legs; the sensations should be pleasant. They can also be used to warm up the body before a massage.

In addition to the cervical-collar zone, to enhance the effect, it is recommended to simultaneously or alternately use applicators on additional zones on the anterior surface of the body and auxiliary zones on the limbs.

It is better to complete the session by treating the feet using the Insole Plus applicator, which can also be used on all parts of the body.

The exposure time for flat applicators, belts, tapes is 20-30 minutes; Roll with rollers or a “needle ball” for 10-15 minutes.

The course of treatment is 10–14 days, which can be repeated after a break after 1–2 weeks. Such procedures can be used in courses for a long time.

For neck pain, you can use either a manual back massage or a massage using the Pharaoh massager, which can be used through thin fabric or over the body lubricated with oil or cream. The duration of the massage and its intensity determines the desired effect. Long lasting, up to 15 minutes. and more, massage promotes complete relaxation of muscles and creates a sedative (calming) effect. A short massage, 3–5–7 minutes, has a tonic (stimulating) effect. During the session, you should perform circular movements clockwise or longitudinal movements up and down.

After the massage, we recommend laying on a flat applicator for rest and relaxation.

The “Speck” applicator can be fixed on the pain area. Considering the small area of influence, wearing is long - 1 - 3 hours.

Diagnostics

If you experience severe neck pain, you should contact a neurologist or vertebrologist as soon as possible. By examining, palpating and performing certain neurological tests, the doctor will be able to detect changes in the spine and determine the causes of their occurrence. But for a more accurate diagnosis, as well as determining the extent of pathological changes, additional procedures will be required. These may include:

X-ray is the simplest method for diagnosing disorders in the condition of bone structures, allowing to diagnose compression fractures, spondylosis and detect indirect signs of other diseases;
CT is a more advanced diagnostic method than x-rays, which provides more detailed information about the condition of bone structures;
MRI is the best way to detect pathological changes in soft tissue structures, in particular intervertebral discs, allowing to detect protrusions from 1 mm, not to mention intervertebral hernias and more serious changes.

If disturbances in the functioning of organs are detected as a result of compression of the spinal roots, laboratory tests are required. Patients may be prescribed a general and biochemical blood test, a study of hormone levels, etc.

Hangover

This is another reason why your head and neck may hurt on the back right side. Usually the pain overtakes a person in the morning, after waking up, when a hefty dose of alcohol was taken the day before.

This painful syndrome is caused by the property of the active substances in alcoholic beverages to block blood flow and impair cerebral circulation.

Usually, to eliminate pain, it is enough to take analgin in the dosage of one tablet and get a good night's sleep.

Treatment of severe neck pain

Treatment tactics are determined based on the diagnosis and the degree of detected pathological changes. In most cases, they begin with conservative therapy, which is always comprehensive. When diagnosing spinal pathologies in such situations, the following are indicated:

Drug therapy, including the use of drugs from such groups as NSAIDs, chondroprotectors, corticosteroids, muscle relaxants, B vitamins.
Physiotherapy, prescribed after the acute inflammatory process has subsided and consists of undergoing 10-15 procedures of phonophoresis, UHF, magnetic therapy, ultrasound therapy, etc.
Manual therapy, as a method of manual influence, allows you to activate tissue nutrition, eliminate muscle spasm and correct the position of the vertebrae, bringing it closer to normal and eliminating pressure on the spinal roots.
Exercise therapy, which consists of daily systematic performance of an individually developed set of exercises that strengthens the neck muscles, activates blood flow and consolidates the results of the treatment.

If the patient is additionally diagnosed with diseases of other organs, their treatment is indicated under the supervision of specialized specialists.

It is imperative to make adjustments to your own lifestyle in order to reduce the load on the vertebrae and intervertebral discs of the cervical spine. To do this, you should regularly take breaks when doing work that requires sitting, take measures to lose weight and change your diet, eliminating harmful foods and increasing the amount of healthy ones.

In cases of severe pain that prevents the patient from leading a normal lifestyle, blockades can be performed to relieve them. They involve injections of anesthetics and corticosteroids at specific points along the spine. This allows you to quickly eliminate pain and reduce the intensity of the inflammatory process. But the effect of blockades is temporary and is a means for emergency pain relief.

However, conservative therapy is not always effective enough, especially in the presence of intervertebral hernias measuring 5 mm or more, spondylosis and vertebral compression fractures. Therefore, if it does not produce results after several months and the patient continues to suffer from severe, sharp pain in the neck, he is advised to consult a spinal surgeon to consider the need for surgical intervention.

Surgery to eliminate severe pain in the cervical spine

If indicated, patients are offered surgical intervention. In each case, the need for it is considered individually and depends not only on the degree of pathological changes, but also on the clinical picture, the age of the patient, the results of conservative therapy and other factors.

If intervertebral hernias or protrusions are detected, which, despite all efforts, continue to put pressure on the spinal roots, patients may be offered:

Hydroplasty or nucleoplasty are methods of percutaneous surgery, which are used for small protrusions. Their essence lies in introducing a thin cannula with a diameter of several millimeters into the center of the altered intervertebral disc and destroying part of the nucleus pulposus using a saline solution supplied under pressure (hydroplasty) or using cold plasma or laser (nucleoplasty). As a result, the protrusion is reabsorbed, and the shape of the disc is restored. After the procedure, no scars remain on the skin, and the patient can leave the clinic on the same day.
Endoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive operation performed using special equipment inserted through a puncture of soft tissue with a diameter of 0.5-1.5 cm. It allows you to remove intervertebral hernias of almost any size and at the same time have a minimal traumatic effect on the tissue. But due to the characteristics of the endoscope, the method is not suitable for removing all types of hernias.
Microsurgical operation (microdiscectomy) is a modern analogue of discectomy, which has the broadest possibilities by creating open access to the affected disc. The method involves making a 1-2 cm long incision and removing the hernia itself or the entire disc, if the situation requires it. In the latter case, it is necessary to stabilize the spine through the introduction of implants, stabilizing systems, or by achieving spinal fusion, i.e., permanent fusion of the vertebrae.

If spinal fusion is detected, osteophytes are resection and the normal structure of the vertebral bodies is restored, followed by removal of the intervertebral disc or resection of the hernia.

For compression fractures, especially severe ones, surgery can be performed without the stage of conservative treatment. For such injuries, vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty is indicated. These operations have much in common and involve the introduction of a special substance – bone cement – into the body of a broken vertebra. It is inserted through a thin cannula, which, under the control of an image intensifier, is immersed into the vertebra. Bone cement is introduced gradually filling the entire vertebra, but without allowing it to leak beyond its boundaries. It hardens within 10 minutes, after which the cannula is removed.

Kyphoplasty differs from vertebroplasty in that it involves initially inserting a deflated balloon into the vertebral body. By injecting saline into it, it inflates and returns the vertebral body to its normal shape and size. After this, the balloon is deflated and removed, and the vertebral body is filled with bone cement. Thus, kyphoplasty is indicated for complex compression fractures with a significant reduction in the size of the vertebral body, and vertebroplasty can be performed in milder cases.

After any operation, rehabilitation is required. Its duration and complexity directly depend on the traumatic nature of the surgical intervention. Therefore, minimally invasive operations are easier for patients to tolerate, and recovery proceeds as easily and smoothly as possible. If a more complex surgical intervention was performed, rehabilitation may last for 3 or more months. But in most cases, patients are discharged from the hospital within 5-7 days after surgery, and even earlier when using minimally invasive techniques.

Thus, sharp pain in the neck may be a sign of the development of serious changes in the cervical spine, which can lead to paralysis of the arms, serious cerebrovascular accidents and other dangerous complications. Therefore, you should not tolerate it; it is better to immediately consult a doctor and undergo the conservative or surgical treatment recommended by him.

Anatomical meaning

Through a person’s neck, as if through a “connecting link” between his head and body, various connecting and supplying structures pass:

blood vessels through which blood flows to the brain;
muscles and vertebrae (from 1st to 7th), due to which head mobility is ensured;
the larynx, which is directly involved in the respiratory process;
The esophagus is an important element of the digestive system.

Naturally, with such multifunctionality, pathologies with various causes and symptoms can develop in the neck area.