The nutritional aspect of lumbar spinal disc degeneration appeared
to be a hot topic this past month. The studies’ findings highlight
a few things we can do to address disc degeneration. At Manahawkin Chiropractic Center, we typically
follow a multi-pronged approach to managing disc
degeneration: reducing pain with Cox® spinal manipulation and
promoting healthier discs with better diet and nutrition.
DISC DEGENERATION INFLUENCES: Metabolic and Cellular Processes
Some current research has been revealing
interesting connections between our metabolic and cellular
processes and their role in spinal degeneration. For instance, Guo et al. (1) found that metabolic syndrome can exacerbate spinal
degeneration in patients with lumbar disc herniation, demonstrating
just how much systemic factors like general health can influence
spinal health. On the other hand, Feng et al. (2) dove into the world of mitophagy—the
process of clearing out damaged mitochondria—within vital
parts of intervertebral discs like the nucleus pulposus, annulus fibrosus, and
cartilage endplate. Their work offers exciting insights
into potential therapies for decelerating
or even reversing disc degeneration. What does this mean
for us? It’s apparent that spinal degeneration isn’t initiated
by just one thing—it’s a complex process swayed
by both systemic issues, like metabolic health, and cellular mechanisms, like
mitophagy. This signals the need for a well-rounded approach to
spinal care, one that is more than just managing
symptoms to tackle the underlying causes. Indeed,
a deeper appreciation of the intricate
cellular processes that drive degeneration is helpful, but lifestyle
factors like diet, exercise, stress management, and nutrition are sensible.
Manahawkin CHIROPRACTIC NUTRITION TIP: Enhance Quercitrin
and Vitamin D Levels
Recent research studies also featured a few tips that can help contain disc degeneration. Wu et
al (3) investigated how the compound quercitrin could help treat spinal disc degeneration by decreasing
inflammation and preventing cell damage. Incorporating quercitrin
into future therapies may offer a promising solution for handling
disc degeneration. Li et al (4) explained how a
lack of Vitamin D can aggravate spinal disc degeneration by triggering
processes that break down the supportive tissue in the discs. Let’s maybe consider adding quercitrin and Vitamin D to your daily nutrition
program? We’ll chat at your next Manahawkin chiropractic
appointment.
WHAT TO DO?
Don’t let disc degeneration stress you out.
The reality is that spinal degeneration comes with aging, but taking charge of your spinal health sooner than later
can make a huge difference. By understanding the factors involved and adopting preventative measures, we can delay or
even negate the impact of spinal degeneration, maintaining
strong and healthy spines for
longer. It’s never too early—or too late—to start
taking care of your spine!
Listen to this PODCAST
with Dr. James Cox on The
Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he
describes the importance of spinal nutrition in The Cox®
Technic System of Spinal Pain Management to optimize clinical
outcomes.
CONTACT Manahawkin Chiropractic Center
Schedule your Manahawkin chiropractic
appointment with Manahawkin Chiropractic Center soon.