Keep Your Spinal Discs Healthy With Chiropractic
By Sara Butler
As you age, the discs that sit between the bones in your spine tend to age right along with you. They can also change as a result of an injury. No matter the reason for the changes, there’s one thing it can lead to for everyone: degenerative disc disease (DDD). DDD can lead to chronic pain and can impact your daily life and how you function. The good news is that the chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic can help you deal with the changes your spine may go through as you age. Here’s what you need to know about degenerative disc disease and how the chiropractor can help.
Spinal Discs: What are They Good For?
The discs in your spine are soft and spongy. They act as small shock absorbers for your spine and also allow your spine to move in several different directions with ease and comfort. The inner portion of the disc is soft and jelly-like, while the outer portion is tougher but elastic-like. When your spinal discs are healthy and doing their job, you don’t notice them. But when something is off, they can contribute to a lot of pain and discomfort.
What Causes DDD?
Changes over time contribute to disc degeneration. Two things can make the changes more pronounced:
- Thinning discs – As you age, the spinal discs can become thinner and reduces its ability to absorb shock. You may also notice decreased flexibility and range of motion.
- Cracks or tears in the discs – Small cracks or tears in the discs can develop in the outer layer, allowing the interior to leak out and cause issues.
The development of DDD can place pressure on the nerves that exit through the vertebra from your spinal cord to run throughout your entire body, leading to abnormal function and pain.
How the Chiropractor Can Help
The symptoms associated with DDD can vary from person to person. It’s imperative to see your chiropractor regularly so they can track changes over time to try to keep your body free of joint dysfunction and restriction. The chiropractors at The Joint make it their objective to keep your central nervous system and spine healthy, which can then help to keep you free from pain.
The best thing about chiropractic care is that it’s a drug-free approach, making it safe for you!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.