Helpful Groton 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 Groton, often leading to persistent discomfort and reduced mobility. This happens when the intervertebral discs—the padding structures between the vertebrae—start to wane due to issues like aging, repetitive strain, or injury. Symptoms may range from lower back pain and stiffness to nerve-related conditions like sciatica, considerably involving quality of life. Efficiently managing lumbar disc degeneration aims to alleviate pain, improve function, and prevent further progression. Below, we look at 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 Groton chiropractic patient at Shoreline Medical Services/ Hutter Chiropractic Office.
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 grants temporary relief, helping to reduce discomfort and improve mobility. However, it’s important to recognize that while aspirin can alleviate symptoms, it does not address the underlying structural issues causing 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 integrating 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, 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 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 a well-trained chiropractor like yours at Shoreline Medical Services/ Hutter Chiropractic Office—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 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 outcomes 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 improving spinal flexibility and lowering inflammation, chondroitin sulfate may also slow the progression of degeneration over time. (5) When paired with chiropractic care, chondroitin supplementation can provide complementary benefits. This combined approach helps address both the structural and nutritional needs of the spine, promoting long-term health and mobility.
CONTACT Shoreline Medical Services/ Hutter Chiropractic Office
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 deliver immediate relief, chiropractic care and chondroitin sulfate offer meaningful, long-term advantages by addressing the root causes of degeneration.
