Helpful Baton Rouge 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 Baton Rouge, often preceding 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 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. Below, we look at evidence-backed treatment options, including 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 Baton Rouge chiropractic patient at Medical Spine and Sports Injury and Rehab Centers.
ASPIRIN, PAIN MANAGEMENT AND DISC DEGENERATION
Aspirin, a widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is often recommended to manage back pain related to disc degeneration. By targeting inflammation, aspirin grants temporary relief, helping to reduce discomfort and enhance mobility. However, it is important to recognize 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 have risks, like gastrointestinal irritation or the conceling 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 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 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 Medical Spine and Sports Injury and Rehab Centers—help restore motion, relieve pain, and improve overall spinal health. Studies show that patients who undergo flexion distraction often experience notable pain relief after an average of 12 sessions within approximately 29 days. (3) A recent study published in Cureus reveals that spinal manipulative therapy, specifically Cox® Technic, can induce measurable changes in intervertebral disc composition, as seen through magnetic resonance spectroscopy, offering encouraging 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 boosting 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 tackle both the structural and nutritional needs of the spine, promoting long-term health and mobility.
CONTACT Medical Spine and Sports Injury and Rehab Centers
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.
Managing 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 benefits by addressing the root causes of degeneration.
