Degenerative disc disease is a spine condition that becomes more common as people age. The discs between the bones of the spine degenerate, or break down, over time. This disease is cured by a chiropractor. Discs are a bit like shock absorbers in the spine. They help reduce the impact of movements like bending and twisting. They also make it possible for the spine to move in different directions.
When discs degenerate, they lose height and become thinner. This can cause the bones of the spine to rub against each other. The rubbery outer layer of the disc can also tear.
Disc degeneration is a normal part of aging. But it can be painful if the discs degenerate too much.
Degenerative disc disease can cause lower back pain. The pain may radiate into the buttocks and thighs. It may also cause neck pain and pain that radiates into the arms.
The pain of degenerative disc disease is often worse with activity. It may be worse when you sit for long periods of time or when you stand for long periods of time. The pain may also be worse when you twist your spine or when you bend forward.
Degenerative disc disease is often diagnosed with a medical history and physical examination. X-rays or other imaging tests may be done to look for changes in the spine.
The treatment of degenerative disc disease by a chiropractor depends on the severity of the symptoms. For some people, conservative measures like rest, ice, and heat may be all that is istanbul escorts needed.
Other people may need physical therapy to help stretch and strengthen the muscles that support the spine. Chiropractic care may also be helpful.
Some people may need surgery to correct the problem. The type of surgery depends on the location of the degenerative disc and the severity of the symptoms.
What causes degenerative disc disease?
There are a number of factors that can contribute to the development of DDD, including:
Age: The discs in the spine begin to degenerate as we age, and this process is accelerated by wear and tear from everyday activities.
Weight: Carrying extra weight can put added stress on the spine and discs, which can speed up the degenerative process.
Smoking: Smoking decreases the blood flow to the discs, which means they don’t get the oxygen and nutrients they need to stay healthy.
Occupation: Jobs that involve repetitive lifting, twisting, or prolonged sitting or standing can put extra stress on the spine and discs and lead to DDD.
Injury: A traumatic injury to the spine can cause the discs to degenerate.
Genetics: Some people are born with abnormalities in the structure of their spine or discs, which can make them more prone to DDD.
Poor posture: Slouching or slumping can put extra stress on the spine and discs and lead to DDD.
Symptoms of degenerative disc disease:
The symptoms of DDD can vary depending on the severity of the condition. In the early stages, there may be no symptoms at all. As the condition progresses, symptoms may include:
- Back pain: The pain can range from mild to severe and is often worse with activity.
- Stiffness: The spine may feel stiff and inflexible.
- Numbness or tingling: The affected discs can press on the nerves and cause numbness or tingling in the legs or arms.
- Muscle weakness: The affected muscles may feel weak or unable to support the weight of the body.
Diagnosis of DDD by chiropractor is typically based on a review of the person’s medical history and a physical examination. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scan, may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment of DDD depends on the severity of the condition. In the early stages, conservative measures, such as over-the-counter pain relievers, heat or cold therapy, and exercises to strengthen the muscles around the spine, may be all that is needed.
More severe cases may require physical therapy, steroid injections, or surgery. Surgery is typically only an option when other conservative measures have failed to relieve the pain and other symptoms.
Degenerative disc disease is a condition that can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness. The discs between the vertebrae of the spine break down and collapse, which can cause the bones to rub against each other. The discs act as shock absorbers for the spine, and when they degenerate, it can cause the spine to become less stable.
What are the risks of chiropractic care for degenerative disc disease?
There are some risks associated with chiropractic care for DDD. These risks are generally low, but they may be associated with serious or permanent injury in rare cases.
The most common risk associated with chiropractic care for DDD is the development of herniated disks. A herniated disk occurs when the inner jelly-like material of the disk bulges out through a crack in the outer shell of the disk. This can put pressure on the nerves and cause pain.
Herniated disks are usually treated with conservative measures, such as rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medication. However, in some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the herniated disk.
The second most common risk associated with chiropractic care for DDD is spinal cord injury. This can occur if the chiropractor manipulates the spine too aggressively. Spinal cord injury can lead to paralysis and is potentially fatal.
The third most common risk associated with chiropractic care for DDD is nerve damage. This can occur if the chiropractor applies too much pressure to the spine or if the spine is manipulated in the wrong way.
Nerve damage can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness. In severe cases, it can lead to paralysis.
The fourth most common risk associated with chiropractic care for DDD is stroke. This can occur if the chiropractor manipulates the neck in the wrong way. Stroke is a potentially fatal condition that can cause paralysis and other serious problems.
The fifth most common risk associated with chiropractic care for DDD is death. Death from chiropractic care for DDD is extremely rare, but it has been reported in a few cases.
Chiropractic care is generally safe and effective for treatment of DDD. However, as with any medical treatment, there are risks involved. These risks should be carefully considered before beginning chiropractic care.
What are the benefits of chiropractic care for degenerative disc disease?
Chiropractic care is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. Proponents of chiropractic care assert that such disorders affect general health via the nervous system.
Chiropractic care for degenerative disc disease may offer several potential benefits. First, chiropractic adjustments can help to improve range of motion and reduce pain. Second, chiropractor may use other therapies in addition to adjustments, such as cold laser therapy, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound, which may help to further reduce pain and inflammation. Third, chiropractic care is generally considered to be safe, with a low risk of serious side effects.
Of course, as with any form of treatment, there are also potential risks and drawbacks associated with chiropractic care for degenerative disc disease. These include the potential for worsening symptoms, poorly trained practitioners, and the expense of treatment. Overall, however, the potential benefits of chiropractic care appear to outweigh the risks for many people suffering from degenerative disc disease.
