If you've been struggling with inexplicable pain, weakness or numbness, the blame may lie with gradual but troubling changes in the spine collectively known as degenerative disc disease. Degenerative disc disease is commonly age related, but it can start at birth and the condition can pronounce itself at any age depending on the individual.
Nerve impingement, joint inflammation and other problems can rob you of both your mobility and your ability to enjoy life until you find a treatment to relieve the underlying causes of your symptoms. Fortunately, you can get that treatment right here at Mount Pleasant Neck and Back Center.
Do You Suffer from Degenerative Disc Disease?
Your spinal column relies on the cushioning ability of the cartilaginous, fluid-filled discs that sit between vertebrae. These discs normally act as shock absorption against life's daily bumps and jolts while also maintaining the proper spacing or "height" between the discs. Over time, however, the discs naturally begin to degenerate, or wear down. The most common cause of this process is simple aging. As the body ages, the discs may lose hydration and flatten out. These changes can lead to:
- Bulging or herniated discs- A flattened or damaged disc may pinch neighboring nerve roots.
- Spinal osteoarthritis- The loss of spinal height may stress and inflame the facet joints that articulate the vertebrae.
- Spinal stenosis- Dislocated or flattened discs can narrow the spinal canal and pinch the spinal cord.
- Spondylolisthesis- Damaged facet joints can allow vertebrae to slip forward in relation to surrounding vertebrae.
Symptoms of degenerative disc disease can include back or neck pain as well as sharp pains, weakness, numbness or tingling in the extremities. The nerve impingement can even cause sexual, bladder or bowel dysfunction depending where those nerves go.
Natural Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment at Our Clinic
The good news is that many cases of degenerative spinal disease can respond nicely to natural treatment methods such as chiropractic care. Dr. Randy, will begin by examining your spine in detail and evaluating your symptoms to determine exactly where, how and why the degeneration and its effects are taking place. Targeted spinal adjustments can help improve spinal alignment, relieving joint strain and inflammation while also improving nerve function.
If your discs are getting in the way of your nerve tissue, non-surgical spinal decompression is another highly effective chiropractic technique that can help immensely. We use a computer-driven table to apply precise amounts of distraction force to your spinal column. The resulting negative pressure sucks bulging discs back into their proper place -- away from the sensitive spinal cord and nerve roots.
Other natural therapies may also be helpful for cases of degenerative disc disease. Call (843) 881-7797 today for an initial consultation -- and take control of your degenerative disc disease!