Helpful Sitka Chiropractic Tips for Managing and Preventing Lumbar Disc Degeneration: Aspirin, Chiropractic, Nutrition
Lumbar disc degeneration is a condition that impacts millions globally and many here in Sitka, often leading to constant discomfort and reduced mobility. This occurs when the intervertebral discs—the padding structures between the vertebrae—start to deteriorate due to issues like 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. Effectively managing lumbar disc degeneration focuses on alleviating pain, improving function, and preventing further progression. In this blog, we look at evidence-backed treatment options, comprising aspirin, chiropractic care’s spinal manipulation, and supplements like chondroitin sulfate, to help you grasp just how these approaches contribute to improved spinal health for you, our Sitka chiropractic patient at Arctic Chiropractic, Sitka.
ASPIRIN, PAIN MANAGEMENT AND DISC DEGENERATION
Aspirin, a widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is manytimes recommended to deal with back pain related to disc degeneration. By targeting inflammation, aspirin provides temporary relief, helping to reduce discomfort and improve mobility. However, it’s important to recognize that while aspirin can alleviate symptoms, it does not fix the underlying structural issues contributing to 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 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 demonstrates that Cox® Technic SMT can lower intradiscal pressure by as much as -192 mmHg and increase the spinal canal area by up to 28%, forming 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 Arctic Chiropractic, Sitka—help restore motion, ease 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 details how spinal manipulative therapy, particularly 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 containing degenerative spinal conditions. It helps cartilage keep water, enhancing its shock-absorbing properties and supporting overall disc health. By improving 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 tackle both the structural and nutritional needs of the spine, promoting long-term health and mobility.
CONTACT Arctic Chiropractic, Sitka
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 core causes of degeneration.
