The nutritional aspect of lumbar spinal disc degeneration seemed
to be a hot topic this past month. The studies’ findings point to
a few things we can do to address disc degeneration. At Dr. Le's Chiropractic & Wellness, L.L.C., we usually set up 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 uncovering
fascinating connections between our metabolic and cellular
processes and their role in spinal degeneration. For instance, Guo et al. (1) found that metabolic syndrome can worsen spinal
degeneration in patients with lumbar disc herniation, showing
just how much systemic factors like general health can affect
spinal health. On the other hand, Feng et al. (2) dove into the world of mitophagy—the
process of clearing out damaged mitochondria—within key
parts of intervertebral discs like the nucleus pulposus, annulus fibrosus, and
cartilage endplate. Their work offers exciting insights
into possible therapies for decelerating
or even reversing disc degeneration. What does this imply for our daily lives? It’s apparent that spinal degeneration isn’t initiated
by just one thing—it’s a complex process influenced
by both systemic issues, like metabolic health, and cellular mechanisms, like
mitophagy. This indicates the need for a well-rounded approach to
spinal care, one that is more than just managing
symptoms to address the underlying causes. Indeed,
a deeper understanding of the elaborate
cellular processes that drive degeneration is helpful, but lifestyle
factors like diet, exercise, stress management, and nutrition are practical.
Auburn CHIROPRACTIC NUTRITION TIP: Enhance Quercitrin
and Vitamin D Levels
Recent research papers also featured a few tips that can help manage disc degeneration. Wu et
al (3) explored how the compound quercitrin could help treat spinal disc degeneration by decreasing
inflammation and preventing cell damage. Adding quercitrin
into future therapies may offer a promising solution for managing
disc degeneration. Li et al (4) detailed how being low in 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 regimen? We’ll chat at your next Auburn 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 sooner than later
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, keeping our spines stronger and healthier for
longer. It’s never too early—or too late—to begin
taking care of your spine!
Listen to this PODCAST
with Dr. James Cox on The
Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he
illustrates the importance of spinal nutrition in The Cox®
Technic System of Spinal Pain Management to enhance clinical
outcomes.
CONTACT Dr. Le's Chiropractic & Wellness, L.L.C.
Make your Auburn chiropractic
appointment with Dr. Le's Chiropractic & Wellness, L.L.C. soon.