The Role of Chiropractic in Managing Degenerative Disc Disease

Welcome to another edition of “Ask the Chiropractor,” where Dr. Brant Hulsebus from Rockford, Illinois, answers questions about chiropractic and chiropractic care. Dr. Hulsebus is a proud graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic and the team chiropractor for the Rockford Icehogs. This week’s topic focuses on a commonly misunderstood condition: Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD). 

What is Degenerative Disc Disease?

First and foremost, it’s important to clarify that Degenerative Disc Disease is not a disease in the typical sense. Instead, it refers to the dehydration and loss of disc height between your vertebrae. This condition is often revealed through symptoms like back pain, but it has nothing to do with catching a disease or a contagious condition.

Why Do Discs Degenerate?

Your spinal discs act as shock absorbers between vertebrae, cushioning them as you move. These discs can change shape to adapt to the stress and inflammation in your body, even bulging if necessary. While an MRI scan might reveal a disc bulge, it’s usually not a cause for alarm; it simply means your disc is functioning as intended.

Role of Subluxation in Degenerative Disc Disease

A subluxation, or misalignment of vertebrae, can contribute to Degenerative Disc Disease. When vertebrae are under stress, the body locks them up, leading to inflammation and stress that affect nerves and surrounding tissues. Over time, this can cause the disc to dehydrate and degrade.

Importance of Movement

Discs get their nutrients through movement—a process called osmosis. Our bodies are designed to heal and obtain nutrients while we walk, run, or jump. Lack of movement means toxins remain in the disc, potentially exacerbating the dehydration and degeneration. Walking for 30 minutes a day can significantly improve your overall health and keep your discs hydrated.

Chiropractic Solutions

Chiropractors aim to restore the motion of your vertebrae through chiropractic adjustments. These adjustments free fixated joints, allowing them to move again and thus enable the natural osmosis process to replenish the discs with nutrients.

Chiropractic care stands out because it uniquely focuses on restoring spinal motion. Traction, physical therapy, and other methods may provide relief, but they do not address the root issue: the fixation of the vertebrae.

Diagnosing Degenerative Disc Disease

An X-ray or MRI is the only definitive way to diagnose Degenerative Disc Disease. Without imaging, any diagnosis is speculative at best. Chiropractors are specially trained to look at alignment issues in X-rays, something that medical doctors and radiologists may not focus on.

Preventing the Spread of Degeneration

Degenerative Disc Disease can spread to adjacent vertebrae. Fixated vertebrae reduce overall spinal movement, making nearby vertebrae more prone to degeneration. A chiropractor can help manage this by targeting the affected and adjacent areas, thereby preventing the condition from spreading.

Realistic Expectations and Long-term Care

While a chiropractor can work wonders on Degenerative Disc Disease, it’s crucial to have realistic expectations. The extent of bone growth and changes in the discs influences how much motion can be restored. Chiropractors can put the brakes on degeneration and often significantly improve disc health once proper motion is restored.

Conclusion

If you or someone you know is dealing with Degenerative Disc Disease, it’s essential to consult a chiropractor. Only they are equipped with the training and expertise to accurately diagnose and treat this condition. Bring any imaging studies, like X-rays or MRIs, to your chiropractor for a thorough assessment.

Remember, chiropractic care is not just about treating symptoms but restoring natural motion to maintain spinal health. If you have questions about chiropractic care, leave a comment or message for Dr. Hulsebus, and your question might be featured in the next edition of “Ask the Chiropractor.”

Keep moving, stay healthy, and always consult a chiropractor for your spinal health needs.