Suffering from degenerative disc disease? Dr. Debbie Oldenberg, Dr. Timothy Kirchberg, and Dr. Jessica Waterworth at Parkside Chiropractic of Columbus, WI, share how chiropractic care can provide natural relief in this quick guide.
Degenerative Disc Disease and Chiropractic Care
Aging can do quite a number on the body in many ways – one of which is through the spinal discs. The rubbery discs cushion your spinal bones and absorb shock. However, age – as well as some other factors – can cause them to wear down or lose fluid, which is known as degenerative disc disease or DDD. Below, Dr. Oldenberg, Dr. Kirchberg, and Dr. Waterworth at Parkside Chiropractic in Columbus, WI, explain the symptoms it can cause, and how chiropractic care can help.
Symptoms of DDD
When your discs wear down, they aren’t providing the cushion that your spine needs, which can lead to pain and other symptoms. Some of these symptoms come from nerve compression.
The spine is surrounded by nerves that travel out from the spinal cord, which is located in the middle of your spinal column. If the discs aren’t providing proper support, it can cause spinal misalignment and undue pressure on the nerves, which can lead to burning pain, numbness, and tingling. It can also impact nerve function, which can trigger health conditions.
In addition to nerve compression, DDD can impede your spine’s range of motion and cause chronic inflammation. It also tends to cause muscle tension, as people naturally tense up when they’re in pain.
Chiropractic Treatment for DDD
To treat DDD, chiropractors focus on improving general spinal health and the function of your discs. Chiropractic adjustments are one of the most effective ways to do this. By applying controlled manual or instrument-assisted force to impacted areas of the spine, alignment can be restored.
Spinal decompression is also highly effective in treating DDD. This is a gentle procedure that stretches the spinal column. As the stretching motion occurs, it not only relieves pressure from surrounding nerves and muscles but also pulls oxygen, water, and nutrients into the discs. This rehydrates the discs and improves their general condition.
Soft tissue therapies are also typically used to relieve any tension, which addresses pain and removes undue stress from the spinal column. Additionally, therapeutic exercises and lifestyle adjustments are provided to help you keep your spine strong and supported.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Oldenberg, Dr. Kirchberg, and Dr. Waterworth at Parkside Chiropractic in Columbus, WI, for natural and effective degenerative disc disease treatment by calling (920) 623-2610 today.
