Lumbar disc degeneration is a condition impacting millions worldwide and many here in
Millville, often preceding persistent
discomfort and decreased mobility. This occurs when
the intervertebral discs—the padding structures between the
vertebrae—start to deteriorate due to issues
like aging, repetitive strain, or injury. Symptoms may range
from lower back pain and stiffness to nerve-related issues
like sciatica, significantly involving
quality of life. Effectively managing lumbar disc
degeneration aims to alleviate pain, improve function, and prevent further progression. Below, we look at evidence-backed treatment
options, including aspirin, chiropractic care’s spinal manipulation,
and supplements like chondroitin sulfate, to help you grasp
just how these approaches help improve spinal
health for you, our Millville chiropractic patient at Wilson Family Chiropractic.
ASPIRIN, PAIN MANAGEMENT AND DISC DEGENERATION
Aspirin, an extensively used nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is often recommended to deal
with back pain associated with disc degeneration.
By targeting inflammation, aspirin grants temporary
relief, helping to reduce discomfort and improve
mobility. However, it’s important to realize that
while aspirin can ease symptoms, it does not fix
the underlying structural issues causing disc
degeneration. Long-term use of NSAIDs like
aspirin may pose risks, including gastrointestinal
irritation or the conceling of progressive deterioration. (1) For
this reason, experts suggest integrating aspirin as part of
a broader, comprehensive treatment plan. When used with other
therapies, it can be helpful.
CHIROPRACTIC CARE: A NON-INVASIVE OPTION FOR DISC
DEGENERATION
Chiropractic care, particularly
techniques like spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) and the Cox® Technic, has
shown significant benefits in managing lumbar disc degeneration.
Research shows that Cox® Technic SMT can reduce
intradiscal pressure by as much as -192 mmHg and widen the
spinal canal area by up to 28%, forming an environment conducive
to natural healing and lowering nerve compression. (2)
One of the main advantages of chiropractic care is its non-invasive
approach. Techniques such as flexion distraction—a gentle and controlled
movement of the spine by a well-trained chiropractor like
yours at Wilson Family Chiropractic—help restore motion, relieve pain, and
improve overall spinal health. Studies show that patients who undergo
flexion distraction often experience remarkable
pain relief after an average of 12 visits within approximately
29 days. (3) A new study published in Cureus reveals
that spinal manipulative therapy, particularly Cox®
Technic, can induce measurable changes in intervertebral disc
composition, as seen through magnetic resonance spectroscopy,
offering encouraging insights for managing lumbar discogenic
pain. (4) These outcomes highlight the potential of non-invasive
chiropractic in managing chronic lower back discomfort as well
as being a safe and effective option in the overall treatment plan.
CHONDROITIN SULFATE IN SUPPORTING SPINAL HEALTH
Chondroitin sulfate, a naturally occurring compound found in
cartilage, is a well-researched supplement for containing
degenerative spinal conditions. It helps cartilage retain water, increasing
its shock-absorbing properties and supporting overall disc health. By improving
spinal flexibility and lowering inflammation, chondroitin
sulfate may also slow the progression of degeneration over time. (5)
When paired with chiropractic care, chondroitin supplementation
can provide complementary benefits. This combined approach helps tackle
both the structural and nutritional needs of the spine, stimulating
long-term health and mobility.
CONTACT Wilson Family Chiropractic
Listen to this PODCAST
with Dr. Nike Taylor on The
Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as she
describes chronic low back pain relief for her patient with The
Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management.
Managing lumbar disc degeneration demands
a thoughtful, multi-faceted approach designed just for you. While treatments like aspirin can provide
immediate relief, chiropractic care and chondroitin sulfate offer meaningful,
long-term advantages by addressing the core causes of
degeneration.
Make your Millville chiropractic
appointment soon!