Living with degenerative disc disease can be challenging, affecting your daily activities and overall quality of life. If you’re struggling with this condition, you might wonder, “Can a chiropractor help with degenerative disc disease?”
In this guide, Mount Prospect Health Center will explain how a chiropractor in Newark, NJ, can help with degenerative disc disease and explore the potential benefits of chiropractic treatment for managing this condition.
What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease is a condition that affects the intervertebral discs in your spine. These discs act as cushions between your vertebrae, allowing flexibility and movement. These discs can naturally wear down as you age, leading to various symptoms and discomfort.
According to Neurologic Clinics, approximately 50 to 80% of adults experience low back pain at some point in their lives due to several causes, including degenerative disc disease.
Recognizing the symptoms of degenerative disc disease is crucial for seeking appropriate treatment. Common signs include:
- Chronic pain in the lower back, neck, or other affected areas
- Increased pain with certain movements or positions
- Numbness or tingling in the extremities
- Weakness in the legs or arms
These symptoms can vary in intensity and may worsen over time if left untreated.
How Can a Chiropractor Help With Degenerative Disc Disease?
How can a chiropractor help with degenerative disc disease? A chiropractor specializes in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those affecting the spine. Chiropractors use various techniques, including spinal manipulation, to alleviate pain and improve function.
Chiropractic care is generally considered safe when performed by a trained and licensed professional. Chiropractors focus on non-invasive, drug-free approaches to manage pain and improve overall health.
Chiropractic treatment offers several benefits for individuals suffering from degenerative disc disease:
Pain Management
Through spinal manipulation and other techniques, chiropractors can help alleviate pain associated with degenerative disc disease. These adjustments aim to reduce pressure on the affected discs and surrounding nerves, providing relief from chronic discomfort. A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that 60% of patients with chronic low back pain reported significant improvement after receiving chiropractic care.
Chiropractors may also use complementary therapies such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or heat and cold therapy to manage pain further and promote healing.
Improved Flexibility and Mobility
Chiropractic adjustments may help improve spinal mobility, reduce stiffness, and enhance your range of motion. By realigning the spine and addressing joint restrictions, chiropractors seek to restore proper movement patterns. This increased flexibility may reduce discomfort and help prevent further degeneration by promoting better spinal function.
Regular chiropractic care may help maintain this improved mobility, allowing you to perform daily activities with greater ease and less pain.
Customized Treatment Plans
How can a chiropractor help with degenerative disc disease? Chiropractors develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your condition and needs, addressing the underlying causes of your symptoms. These plans take into account factors such as your age, overall health, lifestyle, and the severity of your degenerative disc disease.
To create a comprehensive treatment strategy, your chiropractor may incorporate various techniques, including spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapies, and rehabilitative exercises.
Non-Invasive Approach
Chiropractic care offers a non-surgical alternative for managing degenerative disc disease, potentially helping you avoid more invasive procedures. This approach focuses on natural healing methods that don’t require medication or surgery, which may reduce the risk of complications and side effects associated with more aggressive treatments.
For many patients, chiropractic care can provide significant relief without the need for surgical intervention. However, if more intensive treatment is necessary, your chiropractor can refer you to appropriate specialists.
Lifestyle Recommendations
Your chiropractor can provide guidance on exercises, ergonomics, and lifestyle changes to support your spine health and prevent further degeneration. This holistic approach addresses not just your immediate symptoms but also factors that may contribute to ongoing disc degeneration.
Recommendations might include:
- Specific exercises to strengthen core and back muscles
- Proper posture and ergonomics for work and daily activities
- Nutritional advice to reduce inflammation and support overall health
- Stress management techniques to reduce tension in the spine
By incorporating these lifestyle changes, you can actively participate in managing your condition and improving your long-term spinal health.
Mount Prospect Health Center Offers Chiropractic Treatment for Degenerative Disc Disease
According to Columbia University Irving Medical Center, around 30% of people will show signs of degenerative disc disease by age 35. At Mount Prospect Health Center, we understand the impact degenerative disc disease can have on your daily life.
If you’re struggling with degenerative disc disease or experiencing back pain after an accident, we can help. Learn more about the reasons a car accident chiropractor can help after a crash and how chiropractic care can support your recovery.
Don’t let degenerative disc disease control your life. Contact Mount Prospect Health Center today to take the first step toward better spine health. Our experienced team is ready to help you find relief and improve your quality of life.
Call us at 973-485-2332 to schedule a consultation with our chiropractor for degenerative disc disease in Newark, NJ. Our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available.
FAQ
Can Degenerative Disc Disease Be Reversed?
Degenerative disc disease cannot be reversed, but its progression can be slowed down. Proper treatment and lifestyle changes may help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
How Long Does It Take for a Chiropractor To Help With Degenerative Disc Disease?
The time it takes for a chiropractor to help with degenerative disc disease varies depending on the individual case. Many patients report feeling some relief after a few sessions, but a full treatment plan may take several weeks or months.
Can a Chiropractor Help With Degenerative Disc Disease, and It Is Safe?
Chiropractic care is generally considered safe for degenerative disc disease when performed by a licensed professional. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider to determine whether it’s appropriate for your condition.
Can Exercise Help With Degenerative Disc Disease?
Exercise may help manage degenerative disc disease. Low-impact activities and specific exercises recommended by a healthcare professional may strengthen supporting muscles and improve flexibility.
