Oftentimes described by sufferers as excruciating shooting pains that originate in the lower back, degenerative disc disease affects the discs that are cushioning the vertebrae or bones of the spine.
These discs lie between the vertebra, but they also form ligaments that hold the vertebrae in place and stop them from moving too much.
In a young and unharmed body, the discs are squishy and respond easily to movement. Yet with age, the discs become less flexible and easily move and degenerate. They suddenly prevent the healthy function of the spine.
Take for example the dreaded ailment known as spinal stenosis, a compression of the spinal cord that causes the sufferer to experience lower back pain and discomfort in the legs, which is usually the symptoms that causes a sufferer to look for some treatment.
Oftentimes, a chiropractor gets a call, and with the help of medical imaging, this ailment can be quickly diagnosed.
Another form of degenerative disc disease occurs when the discs slip and slightly change their positions.
This, in turn, causes the vertebrae to rub against one another or even pinch the nerves between them.
This is one of the most common problems chiropractors come across.
Sufferers will sometimes report that they experience an odd tingling or a dull pain while walking. The pain may not be enough to keep the sufferer from doing daily exercising or engaging in activities, but it does present a painful reminder that all is not well.
Chiropractors are usually sought out to either suggest a regimen of traditional medical intervention or back surgery, in extreme cases.
While chiropractors cannot offer a magic bullet for those suffering from degenerative disc disease, they can provide a number of services that can give degenerative disc disease patients hope even for those whose backs are very damaged.
Since chiropractors offer a form of alternative medicine, many are familiar with working with an interdisciplinary team and often patients can find natural, safe solutions to their pain, including specific nutritional solutions and appropriate exercise programs.
So, in addition to manipulating your spine, a skilled chiropractor will be able to also suggest a dietary regimen that may aid your discs to such an extent that some regeneration can occur.
And because of the close ties between the athletic community and chiropractic, there is a good chance that your chiropractor will be able to provide you with a number of exercises to follow to keep yourself limber, and your spine healthy.
