Lumbar disc degeneration is a condition that
impacts millions worldwide and many here in
Manchester, often preceding persistent
discomfort and decreased mobility. This happens when
the intervertebral discs—the padding structures between the
vertebrae—start to wane due to issues
like aging, repetitive strain, or injury. Symptoms may vary
from lower back pain and stiffness to nerve-related conditions
like sciatica, considerably affecting
quality of life. Efficiently managing lumbar disc
degeneration focuses on
alleviating pain, improving function, and preventing further progression. In
this blog, we explore evidence-backed treatment
options, comprising 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 Manchester chiropractic patient at Manchester Chiropractic & Sports Injuries.
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 supplies temporary
relief, helping to reduce discomfort and boost
mobility. However, it is important to realize that
while aspirin can ease symptoms, it does not fix
the underlying structural issues contributing to disc
degeneration. Long-term use of NSAIDs like
aspirin may have risks, like gastrointestinal
irritation or the masking of progressive deterioration. (1) For
this reason, experts suggest incorporating aspirin as part of
a broader, comprehensive treatment plan. When used with other
therapies, it may 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 shows that Cox® Technic SMT can decrease
intradiscal pressure by as much as -192 mmHg and increase 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 an experienced chiropractor like
yours at Manchester Chiropractic & Sports Injuries—help restore motion, ease pain, and
improve overall spinal health. Studies show that patients who undergo
flexion distraction often describe remarkable
pain relief after an average of 12 sessions within approximately
29 days. (3) A recent study published in Cureus details how spinal manipulative therapy, particularly Cox®
Technic, can induce measurable changes in intervertebral disc
composition, as observed through magnetic resonance spectroscopy,
offering promising insights for managing lumbar discogenic
pain. (4) These outcomes highlight the potential of non-invasive
chiropractic in addressing 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 addressing
degenerative spinal conditions. It helps cartilage keep water, enhancing
its shock-absorbing properties and supporting overall disc health. By improving
spinal flexibility and reducing inflammation, chondroitin
sulfate may also slow the progression of degeneration over time. (5)
When paired with chiropractic care, chondroitin supplementation
can deliver complementary benefits. This combined approach helps tackle
both the structural and nutritional needs of the spine, stimulating
long-term health and mobility.
CONTACT Manchester Chiropractic & Sports Injuries
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.
Managing lumbar disc degeneration demands
a thoughtful, multi-faceted approach tailored to your
individual needs. While treatments like aspirin can deliver
immediate relief, chiropractic care and chondroitin sulfate offer meaningful,
long-term benefits by addressing the core causes of
degeneration.
Make your Manchester chiropractic
appointment today!