Chiropractic And Degenerative Disc Disease

By Author: Le Chris
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Degenerative disc disease is a condition where the vertebral disc loses its flexibility and capability to act as cushion. Although this condition has no known cause, it usually occurs when a person ages and it is progressive. Vertebral discs allow the spinal column to move. It is believed that osteoporosis and arthritis contribute to the development of this disorder.


People suffering from degenerative disc disease may or may not have pain. However, if the pain is present, it usually appears on the lower back that may radiate to the hips down to the lower extremities. Pain increases with activities, bending, sitting, standing, twisting, and lifting. Patients with this condition are seeking other medical alternatives that do not use any pharmaceutical drugs or surgery.


Chiropractic is one of the most popular alternative medicines worldwide. It does not use any form of medicine or invasive procedure in treating various musculoskeletal disorders and diseases. Chiropractors believe that the body has the ability to heal on its own. But, for the body to do this, each body part must be functioning well.

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Spinal manipulation is the most common method used in chiropractic care. It is done by applying several mild and soft thrusts on the spinal area. Chiropractors are trained and skilled to perform this procedure efficiently and safely. Nevertheless, only licensed chiropractors are allowed to practice spinal manipulation. Spinal adjustment is provided in several sessions with a chiropractor until the objective and goal of the procedure is achieved.


People with this condition are recognizing the effectiveness of chiropractic care in relieving pain and reestablishing the normal anatomical alignment of the spinal column. Any misalignment on the vertebrae of the spinal column pinches the nerves that cause pain. Therefore, to eliminate pain, the spinal column must be realigned to its normal curvature and structure.


Chiropractors use other chiropractic treatments in the management of degenerative disc disease aside from spinal manipulation. They are also used to prevent recurrence of the disorder. These treatments may include exercise program, massage therapy, diet and nutrition, and application of hot and cold compress.


Exercise program is an important part of a chiropractic program. This increases and strengthens the vertebrae and the muscles supporting the spinal column. Correct stretching technique is a part of an exercise program that is necessary to prevent straining the ligaments and muscles of the spine. It is also essential o learn the proper lifting technique to prevent overstretching of the muscles and ligaments.


Massage is done to relax the muscles. Stiff and spastic muscles tend to pull the spinal column, which causes misalignment and abnormal curvature. Therefore, the muscles attached to the spine must be relaxed. Massages also disentangle any knotted or twisted muscle fiber. This procedure is usually performed before and after each spinal adjustment.


Diet and nutrition prevent a sudden increase or decrease in normal body weight. It is advisable that the patient maintains his body weight within the normal range. Cold compress is applied to prevent swelling of the affected body part. On the other hand, hot compress provides relaxation of the muscles and enhances healing process.


Patients with degenerative disc disease consider chiropractic care as one of the most effective treatment. Chiropractic provides pain relief, reestablishment of the normal body function, and maintenance of physical well-being.