Helpful Murfreesboro Chiropractic Tips for Managing and Preventing Lumbar Disc Degeneration: Aspirin, Chiropractic, Nutrition
Lumbar disc degeneration is a condition that impacts millions worldwide and many here in Murfreesboro, often preceding persistent discomfort and decreased mobility. This occurs when the intervertebral discs—the padding structures between the vertebrae—start to wane due to factors such as aging, repetitive strain, or injury. Symptoms may vary from lower back pain and stiffness to nerve-related conditions like sciatica, significantly affecting quality of life. Efficiently managing lumbar disc degeneration focuses on alleviating pain, improving function, and preventing 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 Murfreesboro chiropractic patient at Most Chiropractic Clinic.
ASPIRIN, PAIN MANAGEMENT AND DISC DEGENERATION
Aspirin, a widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is manytimes recommended to manage back pain associated with disc degeneration. By targeting inflammation, aspirin provides temporary relief, helping to reduce discomfort and boost mobility. However, it is important to realize that while aspirin can alleviate symptoms, it does not address the underlying structural issues contributing to disc degeneration. Long-term reliance on NSAIDs like aspirin may pose 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 used with other therapies, it may 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 widen 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 a well-trained chiropractor like yours at Most Chiropractic Clinic—help restore motion, relieve pain, and improve overall spinal health. Studies show that patients who undergo flexion distraction often describe remarkable pain relief after an average of 12 sessions within approximately 29 days. (3) A new study published in Cureus details how spinal manipulative therapy, particularly Cox® Technic, can provoke measurable changes in intervertebral disc composition, as seen through magnetic resonance spectroscopy, offering promising 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 keep 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 paired with chiropractic care, chondroitin supplementation can deliver complementary benefits. This combined approach helps address both the structural and nutritional needs of the spine, promoting long-term health and mobility.
CONTACT Most Chiropractic Clinic
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 demands 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.
