Helpful Concord, NC Chiropractic Tips for Managing and Preventing Lumbar Disc Degeneration: Aspirin, Chiropractic, Nutrition
Lumbar disc degeneration is a condition impacting millions worldwide and many here in Concord, NC, often leading to constant discomfort and reduced mobility. This occurs when the intervertebral discs—the padding structures between the vertebrae—begin to deteriorate due to factors such as aging, repetitive strain, or injury. Symptoms may vary from lower back pain and stiffness to nerve-related issues like sciatica, considerably affecting quality of life. Effectively managing lumbar disc degeneration aims to alleviate pain, improve function, and prevent 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 realize how these approaches help improve spinal health for you, our Concord, NC chiropractic patient at Pure Chiropractic.
ASPIRIN, PAIN MANAGEMENT AND DISC DEGENERATION
Aspirin, an extensively used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is often recommended to manage back pain associated with disc degeneration. By targeting inflammation, aspirin grants temporary relief, helping to lower discomfort and improve mobility. However, it’s 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, including gastrointestinal irritation or the masking 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 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 reduce 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 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 Pure Chiropractic—help restore motion, relieve pain, and improve overall spinal health. Studies show that patients who undergo flexion distraction often get 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, 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 retain water, increasing 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 deliver complementary benefits. This combined approach helps tackle both the structural and nutritional needs of the spine, stimulating long-term health and mobility.
CONTACT Pure 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 tailored to your individual needs. While treatments like aspirin can provide immediate relief, chiropractic care and chondroitin sulfate offer meaningful, long-term advantages by addressing the root causes of degeneration.
