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The degenerative disc, as the name implies, is associated with wear and tear over time. Disc degeneration occurs when the shock-absorbing property of the spinal disc deteriorates. Spinal discs provide a cushion effect between two adjacent vertebrae and space for the spinal nerves to exit.
Degenerative disc disease can lead to arthritis and other health issues like spinal stenosis. It is technically possible to slow down the degeneration process. Most people, at some point in their life, may experience a few changes in their spine, which may be signs of degenerative
disc disease.
How to slow down the disc degeneration process
You can slow down the process of disc degeneration through the following means:
Live an active lifestyle: One very significant thing to do, which can help you in slowing down the disc degeneration process is by living an active lifestyle. One way to live an active lifestyle is to carry out routine exercises. Most Chiropractors will always advise you to engage in stretching exercises. Stretching allows you to move your joints through several ranges of motion.
Stretching exercises also help in improving muscle strength, especially around the back and abdomen. It would be best if you avoided over-reliance on your spine when doing heavy work. There are appropriate techniques for lifting heavy objects without putting much pressure on your spine. Also look to maintain a good posture even while sitting at a computer.
Take little walks to flex your muscles after sitting for long hours. Dr. Jason Jones, at our Chiropractic Office in Elizabeth City, NC, provides proper advice on the best lifestyle that can slow down degenerative disc problems.
Quit smoking: Research has shown that smoking is an underlying cause of disc degeneration. Tobacco smoking affects spinal discs in numerous ways. Smoking is said to inhibit rebuilding activities that occur around spinal disc edges.
Smoking is also said to aid the constriction of blood vessels that are supposed to provide nutrients to spinal discs. Smoking may also worsen the symptoms of back pain, though a lot of research is still ongoing on this aspect. However, It is a general belief that smoking increases the perception of pain.
Watch your weight: Studies show that excess weight is said to be one of the root causes of the degenerative disc. The body exerts more pressure on the spinal disc and joints. Excess weight or obesity contributes to an increase in the risk of disc degeneration in the lumbar vertebrae.
Be conscious of your nutrition: Be mindful of the type of food you eat. Take a lot of vitamin-rich foods and avoid eating foods processed food. Eat foods that contain healthy fats, vegetables and fruits. Ensure that you stay hydrated so that there will be improved blood circulation and flow of nutrients to different parts of your body, including your spine.
Disc degeneration disease is associated with wear and tear over time, but you can slow down the degeneration process of your spinal disc by living a healthy lifestyle, quit certain bad habits and avoid living a sedentary life. Yoga, spinal reconditioning and other stretching exercises help to strengthen your muscles. You also have to be mindful of the type of food you eat.
However, you can pay a visit to Dr. Jason Jones at our Chiropractic Office in Elizabeth City, NC, for effective ways, you can slow down spinal disc degeneration.
