Lumbar disc degeneration is a condition impacting millions globally and many here in
Carrolltown, often leading to persistent
discomfort and reduced mobility. This occurs when
the intervertebral discs—the padding structures between the
vertebrae—begin to deteriorate due to factors such as aging, repetitive strain, or injury. Symptoms may vary
from lower back pain and stiffness to nerve-related conditions
like sciatica, significantly affecting
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 understand how these approaches contribute to improved spinal
health for you, our Carrolltown chiropractic patient at Gormish Chiropractic & Rehabilitation.
ASPIRIN, PAIN MANAGEMENT AND DISC DEGENERATION
Aspirin, a widely used nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is often recommended to manage back pain associated with disc degeneration.
By targeting inflammation, aspirin supplies temporary
relief, helping to reduce discomfort and improve
mobility. However, it’s important to recognize that
while aspirin can ease symptoms, it does not address
the underlying structural issues causing disc
degeneration. Long-term reliance on NSAIDs like
aspirin may pose risks, including gastrointestinal
irritation or the conceling of progressive deterioration. (1) For
this reason, experts suggest incorporating aspirin as part of
a broader, comprehensive treatment plan. When combined with other
therapies, it can be helpful.
CHIROPRACTIC CARE: A NON-INVASIVE OPTION FOR DISC
DEGENERATION
Chiropractic care, more specifically
techniques like spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) and the Cox® Technic, has
shown significant benefits in managing lumbar disc degeneration.
Research demonstrates that Cox® Technic SMT can decrease
intradiscal pressure by as much as -192 mmHg and increase the
spinal canal area by up to 28%, creating an environment conducive
to natural healing and reducingdecreasing nerve compression. (2)
One of the key advantages of chiropractic care is its non-invasive
approach. Techniques such as flexion distraction—a gentle and controlled
movement of the spine by an experienced chiropractor like
yours at Gormish Chiropractic & Rehabilitation—help restore motion, ease pain, and
improve overall spinal health. Studies show that patients undergoing
flexion distraction often note notable
pain relief after an average of 12 sessions within approximately
29 days. (3) A new study published in Cureus details how spinal manipulative therapy, specifically Cox®
Technic, can provoke measurable changes in intervertebral disc
composition, as seen through magnetic resonance spectroscopy,
offering promising insights for managing lumbar discogenic
pain. (4) These findings 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 keep water, increasing
its shock-absorbing properties and supporting overall disc health. By boosting
spinal flexibility and reducing inflammation, chondroitin
sulfate may also slow the progression of degeneration over time. (5)
When coupled with chiropractic care, chondroitin supplementation
can provide complementary benefits. This combined approach helps tackle
both the structural and nutritional needs of the spine, promoting
long-term health and mobility.
CONTACT Gormish Chiropractic & Rehabilitation
Listen to this PODCAST
with Dr. Nike Taylor on The
Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as she
illustrates chronic low back pain relief for her patient with The
Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management.
Dealing with lumbar disc degeneration demands
a thoughtful, multi-faceted approach tailored to your
individual needs. 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.
Schedule your Carrolltown chiropractic
appointment today!