Helpful Minster 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 Minster, often leading to constant discomfort and decreased mobility. This occurs when the intervertebral discs—the cushioning 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, significantly 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 understand how these approaches help improve spinal health for you, our Minster chiropractic patient at Minster Chiropractic Center.
ASPIRIN, PAIN MANAGEMENT AND DISC DEGENERATION
Aspirin, a widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is often recommended to deal with back pain associated with disc degeneration. By targeting inflammation, aspirin grants temporary relief, helping to lower discomfort and boost mobility. However, it is important to recognize that while aspirin can ease 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 conceling of progressive deterioration. (1) For this reason, experts suggest integrating 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 values in managing lumbar disc degeneration. Research shows that Cox® Technic SMT can reduce 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 Minster Chiropractic Center—help restore motion, relieve pain, and improve overall spinal health. Studies show that patients who undergo flexion distraction often get 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 provoke measurable changes in intervertebral disc composition, as observed through magnetic resonance spectroscopy, offering encouraging 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 addressing 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 reduce 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, stimulating long-term health and mobility.
CONTACT Minster Chiropractic Center
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 provide immediate relief, chiropractic care and chondroitin sulfate offer meaningful, long-term benefits by addressing the root causes of degeneration.
