Helpful Carrolltown Chiropractic Tips for Managing and Preventing Lumbar Disc Degeneration: Aspirin, Chiropractic, Nutrition
Lumbar disc degeneration is a condition impacting millions globally and many here in Carrolltown, often preceding bothersome discomfort and reduced 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 range from lower back pain and stiffness to nerve-related conditions like sciatica, considerably 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, comprising aspirin, chiropractic care’s spinal manipulation, and supplements like chondroitin sulfate, to help you understand how these approaches help improve spinal health for you, our Carrolltown chiropractic patient at Gormish Chiropractic & Rehabilitation.
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 provides temporary relief, helping to reduce discomfort and enhance mobility. However, it’s important to realize that while aspirin can alleviate symptoms, it does not touch the underlying structural issues contributing to 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 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 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 Gormish Chiropractic & Rehabilitation—help restore motion, ease 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 recent 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 encouraging 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 addressing degenerative spinal conditions. It helps cartilage retain water, enhancing its shock-absorbing properties and supporting overall disc health. By improving spinal flexibility and lowering inflammation, chondroitin sulfate may also reduce 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 Gormish Chiropractic & Rehabilitation
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.
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 benefits by addressing the core causes of degeneration.
