Lumbar disc degeneration is a condition that
impacts millions worldwide and many here in
Plainville, often leading to bothersome
discomfort and reduced mobility. This occurs when
the intervertebral discs—the padding structures between the
vertebrae—start to weaken 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 involving
quality of life. Efficiently managing lumbar disc
degeneration focuses on
alleviating pain, improving function, and preventing further progression. In
this blog, 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 Plainville chiropractic patient at Layden Chiropractic.
ASPIRIN, PAIN MANAGEMENT AND DISC DEGENERATION
Aspirin, an extensively used nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is often recommended to manage back pain related to disc degeneration.
By targeting inflammation, aspirin supplies temporary
relief, helping to reduce discomfort and improve
mobility. However, it is important to recognize that
while aspirin can alleviate symptoms, it does not touch
the underlying structural issues causing disc
degeneration. Long-term dependence on NSAIDs like
aspirin may have risks, like 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 combined with other
therapies, it may 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 values in managing lumbar disc degeneration.
Research shows that Cox® Technic SMT can lower
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 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 Layden Chiropractic—help restore motion, relieve pain, and
improve overall spinal health. Studies show that patients undergoing
flexion distraction often describe remarkable
pain relief after an average of 12 sessions within approximately
29 days. (3) A recent 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 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 retain water, enhancing
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 paired with chiropractic care, chondroitin supplementation
can deliver complementary benefits. This combined approach helps tackle
both the structural and nutritional needs of the spine, promoting
long-term health and mobility.
CONTACT Layden Chiropractic
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 deliver
immediate relief, chiropractic care and chondroitin sulfate offer meaningful,
long-term advantages by addressing the core causes of
degeneration.
Schedule your Plainville chiropractic
appointment today!