Nutritional Approaches to Managing Richmond Disc Degeneration
The nutritional aspect of lumbar spinal disc degeneration appeared to be a hot topic this past month. The studies’ findings point to a few things we can do to address disc degeneration. At Johnson Chiropractic, we encourage a multi-pronged approach to managing disc degeneration: decreasing 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 fascinating connections between our metabolic and cellular processes and their role in spinal degeneration. For instance, Guo et al. (1) wrote about how metabolic syndrome can exacerbate spinal degeneration in patients with lumbar disc herniation, demonstrating just how much systemic factors like general health can impact spinal health. On the other hand, Feng et al. (2) explored mitophagy—the process of clearing out damaged mitochondria—within critical components of intervertebral discs, including the nucleus pulposus, annulus fibrosus, and cartilage endplate. Their work offers exciting insights into potential therapies for reducing or even reversing disc degeneration. What does this imply for our daily lives? It’s apparent that spinal degeneration isn’t caused by just one event or issue—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 handling symptoms to tackle the underlying causes. Indeed, a deeper appreciation of the elaborate cellular processes that drive degeneration is helpful, but lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, stress management, and nutrition are practical.
Richmond CHIROPRACTIC NUTRITION TIP: Enhance Quercitrin and Vitamin D Levels
Recent research studies also featured a few tips that can help manage disc degeneration. Wu et al (3) investigated how the compound quercitrin could assist in the treatment of spinal disc degeneration by decreasing inflammation and preventing cell damage. Incorporating quercitrin into future therapies may offer a favorable solution for managing disc degeneration. Li et al (4) explained how a lack of Vitamin D can worsen spinal disc degeneration by stimulating processes that break down the supportive tissue in the discs. Let’s maybe look at adding quercitrin and Vitamin D to your daily nutrition program? We’ll chat at your next Richmond chiropractic appointment.
WHAT TO DO?
Don’t let disc degeneration bother you. The reality is that spinal degeneration is a natural part of aging, but taking charge of your spinal health early on can make a huge difference. By understanding the factors at play and adopting protective measures, we can delay or even minimize the impact of spinal degeneration, maintaining strong and healthy spines for longer. It is 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 enhance clinical outcomes.
CONTACT Johnson Chiropractic
Make your Richmond chiropractic appointment with Johnson Chiropractic today.
