C7–T1 Nucleus Pulposus Dehydration

Nucleus pulposus dehydration refers to the loss of water content within the gelatinous core (nucleus pulposus) of the intervertebral disc, here specifically at the junction between the seventh cervical (C7) and first thoracic (T1) vertebrae. Over time—or due to injury—water molecules diffuse out of the nucleus, reducing its turgor and shock-absorbing capability. This process contributes to disc height loss, altered biomechanics, and may precede disc degeneration or herniation.

• Nucleus pulposus: The central, hydrophilic (water-attracting) part of an intervertebral disc, rich in proteoglycans and type II collagen, allowing it to resist compressive forces.

• Dehydration: In this context, the reduction in water content due to decreased proteoglycan synthesis, increased matrix degradation, or compromised endplate diffusion.

• C7–T1 level: The cervicothoracic junction endures unique stresses—transitioning from a highly mobile cervical spine to a stiffer thoracic region—which can accelerate degeneration when the nucleus loses hydration.

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Anatomy of the C7–T1 Nucleus Pulposus

Structure

• Composition: A gel-like matrix composed of 70–90% water in youth, bound to proteoglycans (aggrecan) and embedded in a fine network of type II collagen fibers. Microfibrils give viscoelasticity.

• Ultrastructure: Contains chondrocyte-like cells that maintain the extracellular matrix; interlamellar clefts allow fluid movement under load.

Location

• Disc position: Sandwiched between the inferior endplate of C7 and superior endplate of T1 vertebral bodies.

• Surrounding tissues: Encircled by the robust annulus fibrosus (concentric collagen rings) and capped by hyaline cartilage endplates.

Origin and Insertion

• Origin: Embryologically derived from the notochord, which forms the inner core of each intervertebral disc.

• Insertion/Attachment: Fuses seamlessly with the inner annulus fibrosus; anchored to vertebral endplates by collagen fibers and proteoglycan interdigitation.

Blood Supply

• Direct vascularization: None—the nucleus is avascular.

• Nutrient diffusion: Relies on diffusion across the cartilage endplates from capillaries in the adjacent vertebral bodies; fluid exchange driven by cyclic loading (“pump” effect).

Nerve Supply

• Innervation: The inner annulus fibrosus and endplates receive nociceptive (pain) fibers via the sinuvertebral (recurrent meningeal) nerves. The nucleus itself is essentially aneural but may become pain-sensitive if fissures extend inward.

Functions

1. Shock absorption: Distributes axial loads evenly across vertebral bodies.

2. Load transmission: Transmits compressive forces through the spinal column.

3. Flexibility: Allows slight movement and rotation between adjacent vertebrae.

4. Height maintenance: Preserves intervertebral height, maintaining foraminal space for nerves.

5. Nutrient transport: Facilitates fluid exchange that brings nutrients in and wastes out.

6. Torsional resistance: Resists shear and rotational forces during neck movements.

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Types (Classification) of Nucleus Pulposus Dehydration

1. Early (Stage I): Mild decrease in hydration; MRI T2 signal slightly reduced; disc height maintained.

2. Moderate (Stage II): Noticeable loss of water; disc height begins to narrow; increased collagen-to-proteoglycan ratio.

3. Severe (Stage III): Marked dehydration; significant height loss; annular fissures often present.

4. End-stage (Stage IV): Advanced degeneration; disc collapse; osteophyte formation; potential segmental hypermobility or fusion.

5. Pfirrmann Grades (MRI-based): Grade I (healthy) through Grade V (collapsed, dark nucleus).

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Causes of C7–T1 Nucleus Pulposus Dehydration

1. Aging: Proteoglycan synthesis declines with age.

2. Repetitive microtrauma: Chronic overloading from posture or occupation.

3. Acute trauma: Whiplash or direct impact.

4. Genetic predisposition: Variants in collagen-encoding genes.

5. Smoking: Impairs endplate diffusion and matrix production.

6. Nutritional deficiencies: Low vitamin D, C, or amino acid substrates.

7. Endplate sclerosis: Reduced permeability to nutrients.

8. Inflammation: Cytokine-mediated matrix degradation.

9. Obesity: Excess axial load accelerates dehydration.

10. Sedentary lifestyle: Reduced “pump” action for fluid exchange.

11. Occupational strain: Heavy lifting or vibration exposure.

12. Poor posture: Forward head carriage increases cervical load.

13. Disc herniation: Leakage of nucleus material reduces hydration.

14. Metabolic disorders: Diabetes mellitus alters extracellular matrix.

15. Autoimmune conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis targeting disc components.

16. Radiation therapy: Endplate damage in head/neck cancer treatment.

17. Infection: Discitis can destroy nucleus matrix.

18. Drug-induced: Long-term corticosteroids impair proteoglycan synthesis.

19. Microvascular disease: Reduced capillary supply to vertebral bodies.

20. Spinal instability: Excessive motion leads to matrix breakdown.

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Symptoms Associated with C7–T1 Nucleus Dehydration

1. Neck stiffness: Reduced range of motion.

2. Localized pain: Deep, throbbing pain at the base of the neck.

3. Pain on flexion/extension: Worsened by bending head forward or backward.

4. Muscle spasm: Paraspinal muscle guarding.

5. Referred shoulder pain: Via cervicothoracic junction mechanics.

6. Arm pain (radicular): If adjacent nerve roots irritated.

7. Paresthesia: Tingling in C8–T1 dermatomes (medial forearm, ring/little fingers).

8. Weakness: Grip or finger flexor weakness.

9. Headache: Occipital headache from upper cervical involvement.

10. Crepitus: Crackling sounds on neck movement.

11. Reduced disc height signs: Visible on imaging, contributing to foraminal narrowing.

12. Postural changes: Forward head posture develops as compensatory.

13. Loss of cervical lordosis: Straightening of the normal cervical curve.

14. Sleep disturbance: Pain aggravated by supine position.

15. Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia): Rarely, anterior disc bulge.

16. Balance problems: If myelopathy develops.

17. Hyperreflexia: In severe cases with spinal cord compression.

18. Clumsiness of hands: “Dropped utensil” phenomenon.

19. Neck fatigue: Early muscle fatigue during prolonged posture.

20. Neuropathic pain qualities: Burning or electric shock sensations.

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Diagnostic Tests

Physical Examination

1. Observation: Posture, muscle atrophy, cervical curve.

2. Palpation: Tenderness over C7–T1 interspinous space.

3. Range of motion (ROM): Flexion, extension, lateral bending, rotation.

4. Spurling’s test: Axial compression with head extension/rotation to reproduce radicular pain.

5. Jackson’s compression: Lateral bending with compression for foraminal assessment.

6. Neck distraction: Relief of symptoms with cervical traction.

7. Adson’s test: Assess thoracic outlet involvement.

8. Shoulder abduction relief test: Alleviation of symptoms with hand on head.

Manual (Provocative) Tests

9. Lhermitte’s sign: Electric sensation down spine with neck flexion (myelopathy).

10. Hoffmann’s reflex: Flicking distal phalanx of middle finger to elicit thumb flexion (upper motor neuron involvement).

11. Valsalva maneuver: Increased intrathecal pressure reproducing pain if disc bulge exists.

12. Jaw–clench test: TMD vs. cervical referral differentiation.

Laboratory and Pathological Tests

13. Complete blood count (CBC): Rule out infection/inflammation.

14. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): Elevated in discitis or systemic inflammation.

15. C-reactive protein (CRP): Marker of acute inflammation.

16. HLA-B27: For ankylosing spondylitis association.

17. Blood cultures: If suspicion of infectious discitis.

Electrodiagnostic Tests

18. Nerve conduction studies (NCS): Evaluate peripheral nerve function in C8–T1 distribution.

19. Electromyography (EMG): Detect denervation in intrinsic hand muscles.

20. Somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs): Assess dorsal column integrity.

21. Motor evoked potentials (MEPs): Evaluate corticospinal tract function.

Imaging Tests

22. Plain radiographs (X-ray): Assess disc height, alignment, osteophytes, endplate sclerosis.

23. Flexion–extension X-rays: Detect segmental instability.

24. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): T2-weighted images show loss of hyperintense signal in dehydrated nucleus.

25. T1 mapping MRI: Quantifies proteoglycan content and water content.

26. Computed tomography (CT): Bone detail, endplate changes, osteophytes.

27. CT myelography: If MRI contraindicated; assesses neural compression.

28. Discography (provocative): Contrast injection reproducing patient’s pain.

29. Ultrasound elastography: Emerging tool for disc stiffness measurement.

30. Dynamic weight-bearing MRI: Evaluates disc under physiological load.

Non-Pharmacological Treatments

Each entry includes a detailed description, primary purpose, and underlying mechanism.

1. Structured Cervical Traction

   • Description: Gentle pulling of the head to decompress C7–T1.

   • Purpose: Reduce disc pressure and alleviate nerve irritation.

   • Mechanism: Increases intervertebral space, allowing rehydration and nutrient flow.

2. Therapeutic Heat Therapy

   • Description: Application of moist heat packs for 15–20 minutes.

   • Purpose: Relieve muscle spasm and pain.

   • Mechanism: Vasodilation increases blood flow, promoting healing.

3. Cold Laser Therapy

   • Description: Low-level laser directed at the disc area.

   • Purpose: Reduce inflammation and pain.

   • Mechanism: Photobiomodulation enhances cellular repair and reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines.

4. Ultrasound Deep Heating

   • Description: High-frequency sound waves penetrate tissues.

   • Purpose: Loosen stiff tissues and improve blood flow.

   • Mechanism: Thermal and non-thermal effects stimulate collagen extensibility.

5. Cervical Stabilization Exercises

   • Description: Isometric holds targeting deep neck flexors.

   • Purpose: Strengthen support muscles, reducing disc load.

   • Mechanism: Improved muscular endurance stabilizes vertebrae alignment.

6. Postural Re-education

   • Description: Training to maintain neutral spine during daily activities.

   • Purpose: Minimize abnormal mechanical stresses on C7–T1.

   • Mechanism: Balanced load distribution across intervertebral discs.

7. McKenzie Extension Protocol

   • Description: Repeated neck extension movements.

   • Purpose: Centralize pain and reduce disc bulge.

   • Mechanism: Posterior disc gel shifts anteriorly, reducing nerve pressure.

8. Myofascial Release

   • Description: Manual soft-tissue mobilization along the neck and upper back.

   • Purpose: Decrease fascial restrictions and pain.

   • Mechanism: Breaks adhesions, restores tissue glide.

9. Instrument-Assisted Soft-Tissue Mobilization

   • Description: Tools (e.g., Graston instruments) applied to muscle.

   • Purpose: Promote tissue remodeling and decrease pain.

   • Mechanism: Microtrauma stimulates fibroblast activity and collagen realignment.

10. Dry Needling

    • Description: Insertion of thin needles into trigger points.

    • Purpose: Relieve muscular knots contributing to disc stress.

    • Mechanism: Elicits local twitch response, reducing nociceptive input.

11. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)

    • Description: Mild electrical currents via skin electrodes.

    • Purpose: Temporary pain relief.

    • Mechanism: Activates gate-control theory pathways, blocking pain signals.

12. Spinal Mobilization

    • Description: Gentle oscillatory movements applied by a therapist.

    • Purpose: Improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness.

    • Mechanism: Stimulates mechanoreceptors, reducing pain and improving fluid exchange.

13. Cervical Bracing

    • Description: Wearing a soft collar for short periods.

    • Purpose: Limit motion to allow healing.

    • Mechanism: Reduces mechanical stress and muscle spasm.

14. Yoga for Neck Health

    • Description: Gentle neck stretches and poses.

    • Purpose: Improve flexibility and posture.

    • Mechanism: Stretches musculofascial tissues, promoting alignment.

15. Pilates-Based Core Stabilization

    • Description: Exercises focusing on core and neck synergy.

    • Purpose: Enhance global stability, reducing cervical load.

    • Mechanism: Strengthened torso supports cervical alignment.

16. Ergonomic Workspace Adjustment

    • Description: Monitor at eye level, chair support.

    • Purpose: Prevent sustained neck flexion or extension.

    • Mechanism: Maintains neutral posture, lowering disc strain.

17. Cervical Spine Joint Play Exercises

    • Description: Passive accessory movements performed by therapists.

    • Purpose: Restore joint play and decrease pain.

    • Mechanism: Encourages synovial fluid distribution in facet joints.

18. Graded Exposure to Activity

    • Description: Slow return to normal tasks under guidance.

    • Purpose: Prevent pain-related fear and deconditioning.

    • Mechanism: Progressive loading promotes tissue adaptation.

19. Alexander Technique

    • Description: Lessons to unlearn harmful movement habits.

    • Purpose: Reduce tension and improve spinal alignment.

    • Mechanism: Inhibits overactivation of neck muscles.

20. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)

    • Description: Meditation focusing on body awareness.

    • Purpose: Lower stress-induced muscle tension.

    • Mechanism: Reduces sympathetic overdrive, easing muscular tightness.

21. Aquatic Therapy

    • Description: Neck exercises performed in water.

    • Purpose: Decompress joints gently.

    • Mechanism: Buoyancy reduces gravitational load on discs.

22. Progressive Resistance Training

    • Description: Light weights targeting scapular and neck muscles.

    • Purpose: Increase muscular support around C7–T1.

    • Mechanism: Hypertrophy and endurance reduce spinal loading.

23. Biofeedback-Assisted Relaxation

    • Description: EMG feedback to teach muscle relaxation.

    • Purpose: Decrease chronic muscle tension.

    • Mechanism: Conscious modulation of muscle activity lowers disc stress.

24. Acupuncture

    • Description: Fine needles placed at specific points.

    • Purpose: Modulate pain pathways and inflammation.

    • Mechanism: Stimulates endorphin release and alters neurotransmitter levels.

25. Chiropractic Cervical Adjustments

    • Description: High-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts.

    • Purpose: Improve joint mobility and reduce pain.

    • Mechanism: Quick stretch reduces muscle spasm and opens joint space.

26. Craniosacral Therapy

    • Description: Gentle manipulation of cranial bones and spine.

    • Purpose: Enhance CSF flow and reduce tension.

    • Mechanism: Subtle mobilization may normalize dural tension.

27. Functional Movement Screening (FMS)

    • Description: Assessment to identify movement deficits.

    • Purpose: Tailor corrective exercises to reduce strain.

    • Mechanism: Addresses compensatory patterns that overload C7–T1.

28. Kinesio Taping

    • Description: Elastic therapeutic tape applied along neck muscles.

    • Purpose: Provide proprioceptive support and pain relief.

    • Mechanism: Lifts skin microscopically, improving lymphatic drainage.

29. Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF)

    • Description: Stretch-hold-stretch patterns for neck.

    • Purpose: Increase flexibility and reduce spasm.

    • Mechanism: Autogenic inhibition via Golgi tendon organs.

30. Cervical Disc Rehydration Protocol (CPM)

    • Description: Controlled passive motion device moving the neck.

    • Purpose: Promote nutrient exchange in dehydrated disc.

    • Mechanism: Alternating compression/decompression enhances fluid flow.

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Pharmacological Treatments

Each entry: drug class, typical dosage, timing, and common side effects.

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Dietary Molecular Supplements

(Dosage, primary function, mechanism of action)

1. Glucosamine Sulfate

   • Dosage: 1500 mg daily

   • Function: Supports disc matrix health

   • Mechanism: Provides substrate for proteoglycan synthesis

2. Chondroitin Sulfate

   • Dosage: 800–1200 mg daily

   • Function: Maintains cartilage and disc elasticity

   • Mechanism: Inhibits degradative enzymes, promotes water retention

3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

   • Dosage: 1000–2000 mg EPA/DHA daily

   • Function: Anti‐inflammatory support

   • Mechanism: Modulates eicosanoid pathways to reduce cytokines

4. Vitamin D₃

   • Dosage: 1000–2000 IU daily

   • Function: Bone and disc nutrition

   • Mechanism: Enhances calcium absorption, modulates immune response

5. Magnesium

   • Dosage: 300–400 mg daily

   • Function: Muscle relaxation and nerve function

   • Mechanism: Cofactor for ATPase pumps, reduces excitability

6. Collagen Peptides

   • Dosage: 10 g daily

   • Function: Supports extracellular matrix

   • Mechanism: Supplies amino acids for collagen repair

7. Curcumin

   • Dosage: 500–1000 mg standardized extract daily

   • Function: Anti-inflammatory antioxidant

   • Mechanism: Inhibits NF-κB and COX-2 pathways

8. Boswellia Serrata

   • Dosage: 300 mg three times daily

   • Function: Reduces inflammation

   • Mechanism: Blocks 5-lipoxygenase-mediated leukotriene synthesis

9. MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)

   • Dosage: 1000–2000 mg daily

   • Function: Joint and disc comfort

   • Mechanism: Supplies sulfur for connective tissue repair

10. Hyaluronic Acid

    • Dosage: 200 mg daily

    • Function: Supports hydration of disc matrix

    • Mechanism: Retains water in extracellular spaces

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Advanced Drug Therapies

Bisphosphonates, regenerative, viscosupplements, stem-cell agents (dosage, function, mechanism)

1. Zoledronic Acid (Bisphosphonate)

   • Dosage: 5 mg IV yearly

   • Function: Slows bone resorption around disc endplates

   • Mechanism: Inhibits osteoclast-mediated bone turnover

2. Denosumab (Monoclonal Antibody)

   • Dosage: 60 mg subcutaneous every 6 months

   • Function: Reduces bone loss, stabilizes vertebral structure

   • Mechanism: Binds RANKL, preventing osteoclast activation

3. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection

   • Dosage: 3–5 mL into peri-discal region

   • Function: Stimulates local healing and regeneration

   • Mechanism: Platelet growth factors promote tissue repair

4. Stem Cell–Derived MSC Injection

   • Dosage: 1–2×10⁶ cells per mL, single injection

   • Function: Regenerates nucleus pulposus cells

   • Mechanism: MSCs differentiate and secrete trophic factors

5. Recombinant Human Growth Factor (e.g., NTF3)

   • Dosage: Experimental dosing under trial

   • Function: Encourages cell proliferation in disc

   • Mechanism: Binds specific receptors to drive ECM synthesis

6. Hylan G-F 20 (Viscosupplement)

   • Dosage: 2 mL peri-discal injection

   • Function: Restores disc hydration, shock absorption

   • Mechanism: Exogenous hyaluronan increases disc viscosity

7. Methotrexate (Low-Dose)

   • Dosage: 7.5 mg weekly

   • Function: Reduces inflammatory disc processes

   • Mechanism: Folate antagonist inhibiting immune cell proliferation

8. Tissue-Engineered Hydrogel Carrier

   • Dosage: Single 1–2 mL injection under imaging guidance

   • Function: Scaffold for cell migration and ECM deposition

   • Mechanism: Biocompatible polymer supports cell-based regeneration

9. Anti-TNF-α Biologics (e.g., Infliximab)

   • Dosage: 3–5 mg/kg IV per standard RA protocol

   • Function: Reduces cytokine-driven disc inflammation

   • Mechanism: Neutralizes TNF-α, lowering local inflammatory cascade

10. BMP-7 (Osteogenic Protein)

    • Dosage: Research dosing in clinical trials

    • Function: Promotes disc cell anabolic activity

    • Mechanism: Stimulates synthesis of proteoglycans and collagen

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Surgical Options

1. Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)

   • Removal of dehydrated disc and fusion with bone graft to stabilize C7–T1.

2. Posterior Cervical Discectomy

   • Laminotomy and partial disc removal via back approach to decompress nerves.

3. Cervical Disc Arthroplasty

   • Disc replacement with artificial implant to preserve motion.

4. Foraminotomy

   • Widening of neural foramen to relieve nerve root compression.

5. Laminoplasty

   • Reconstruction of laminae to expand spinal canal.

6. Posterior Instrumented Fusion

   • Rod-and-screw stabilization across C7–T1 after disc removal.

7. Minimally Invasive Endoscopic Discectomy

   • Small-incision removal of disc under endoscopic guidance.

8. Artificial Disc Nucleus Implant

   • Injection of polymer nucleus replacement into disc cavity.

9. Dynamic Stabilization Systems

   • Flexible implants that unload the disc while preserving some motion.

10. Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant

    • Epidural electrodes delivering electrical pulses to modulate pain.

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Prevention Strategies

1. Maintain neutral neck posture—align head over shoulders.

2. Perform daily neck and upper-back stretches.

3. Use ergonomic chairs and monitor stands.

4. Avoid prolonged static positions—take breaks every 30 minutes.

5. Strengthen core and paraspinal muscles regularly.

6. Lift objects with proper technique (avoid neck flexion).

7. Keep a healthy body weight to reduce spinal load.

8. Stay hydrated—drink water to support disc hydration.

9. Quit smoking—nicotine impairs disc nutrition.

10. Incorporate anti-inflammatory nutrients (omega-3, antioxidants).

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When to See a Doctor

• Persistent Pain: Neck pain lasting >6 weeks despite home care.

• Neurological Signs: Tingling, numbness, or weakness in arms/hands.

• Severe Headaches: Associated with neck movement.

• Trauma History: Following an injury or fall.

• Bladder/Bowel Changes: Rare but urgent signs of spinal cord involvement.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What causes C7–T1 disc dehydration?
   Age-related wear, poor posture, repetitive strain, genetics, and smoking all contribute to water loss in the disc’s nucleus pulposus.

2. Can hydration slow disc degeneration?
   Drinking adequate water supports overall body hydration, but targeted disc rehydration relies on motion and nutrient exchange in the spine.

3. Is C7–T1 disc dehydration reversible?
   While full reversal is unlikely, non-surgical strategies (traction, exercise, hydration) can improve disc health and symptom control.

4. Will dehydration always lead to surgery?
   No. Most cases improve with conservative care; surgery is reserved for severe pain or neurological compromise.

5. How long does recovery take after ACDF?
   Initial pain relief may occur within days; full fusion and return to normal activities often take 3–6 months.

6. Are stem-cell injections safe?
   Early studies show promise, but long-term safety and efficacy are still under investigation.

7. Can I continue exercising with C7–T1 issues?
   Yes—gentle, guided exercises strengthen supportive muscles without worsening disc dehydration.

8. Do I need a brace?
   A soft cervical collar may help short-term, but long-term reliance can weaken neck muscles.

9. Which supplements work best?
   Glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3s, and collagen have the most evidence for supporting disc and joint health.

10. What role does posture play?
    Poor posture increases mechanical stress on C7–T1, accelerating dehydration. Ergonomic adjustments are key to prevention.

11. Is ultrasound therapy effective?
    Yes—deep heat and mechanical waves can reduce pain and improve tissue flexibility around the disc.

12. How often should I see a physical therapist?
    Typically 1–2 sessions per week for 6–8 weeks, tapering as symptoms improve.

13. Can PRP injections regenerate discs?
    PRP may stimulate healing factors locally but is not a guaranteed cure for disc dehydration.

14. What activities worsen C7–T1 dehydration?
    Heavy lifting, prolonged forward head posture (e.g., looking down at phones), and high-impact sports without proper conditioning.

15. When is regenerative therapy appropriate?
    For patients with early to moderate disc degeneration unresponsive to conservative care and seeking to delay or avoid surgery.

Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, geological location, weather and previous medical  history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. Regular check-ups and awareness can help to manage and prevent complications associated with these diseases conditions. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. We always try to ensure that the content is regularly updated to reflect the latest medical research and treatment options. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.

The article is written by Team Rxharun and reviewed by the Rx Editorial Board Members

Last Updated: May 11, 2025.

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