Helpful Easley 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 Easley, often preceding constant discomfort and decreased 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 range from lower back pain and stiffness to nerve-related issues like sciatica, considerably involving quality of life. Effectively managing lumbar disc degeneration aims to alleviate pain, improve function, and prevent further progression. Below, we explore 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 Easley chiropractic patient at Young Chiropractic.
ASPIRIN, PAIN MANAGEMENT AND DISC DEGENERATION
Aspirin, a widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is manytimes recommended to deal with back pain associated with disc degeneration. By targeting inflammation, aspirin provides temporary relief, helping to lower discomfort and boost mobility. However, it is important to realize that while aspirin can alleviate symptoms, it does not fix the underlying structural issues causing 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 combined 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 values in managing lumbar disc degeneration. Research demonstrates that Cox® Technic SMT can lower intradiscal pressure by as much as -192 mmHg and widen the spinal canal area by up to 28%, forming an environment conducive to natural healing and lowering 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 Young Chiropractic—help restore motion, relieve pain, and improve overall spinal health. Studies show that patients undergoing flexion distraction often feel notable pain relief after an average of 12 visits within approximately 29 days. (3) A new study published in Cureus reveals that spinal manipulative therapy, specifically 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 findings 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 retain 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 Young 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 requires a thoughtful, multi-faceted approach designed just for you. 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.
