Helpful Tonawanda Chiropractic Tips for Managing and Preventing Lumbar Disc Degeneration: Aspirin, Chiropractic, Nutrition
Lumbar disc degeneration is a condition impacting millions around the world and many here in Tonawanda, often leading to bothersome discomfort and decreased mobility. This happens when the intervertebral discs—the padding structures between the vertebrae—start to deteriorate due to factors such as 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 realize how these approaches help improve spinal health for you, our Tonawanda chiropractic patient at Chiropractic Spine Sports And Rehabilitation.
ASPIRIN, PAIN MANAGEMENT AND DISC DEGENERATION
Aspirin, an extensively used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is manytimes recommended to manage back pain related to disc degeneration. By targeting inflammation, aspirin provides temporary relief, helping to lower 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, like 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 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 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 Chiropractic Spine Sports And Rehabilitation—help restore motion, ease pain, and improve overall spinal health. Studies show that patients who undergo flexion distraction often note notable pain relief after an average of 12 visits 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 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 containing degenerative spinal conditions. It helps cartilage keep water, enhancing its shock-absorbing properties and supporting overall disc health. By boosting spinal flexibility and lowering inflammation, chondroitin sulfate may also reduce the progression of degeneration over time. (5) When coupled with chiropractic care, chondroitin supplementation can provide complementary benefits. This combined approach helps address both the structural and nutritional needs of the spine, stimulating long-term health and mobility.
CONTACT Chiropractic Spine Sports And 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 requires 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 root causes of degeneration.
