Nutritional Approaches to Managing Williamson Disc Degeneration
The nutritional aspect of lumbar spinal disc degeneration seemed to be a hot topic this past month. The studies’ findings highlight a few things we can do to address disc degeneration. At Apple Country Chiropractic, 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 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 stimulating insights into potential therapies for slowing or even reversing disc degeneration. What does this mean for us? It’s apparent that spinal degeneration isn’t caused by just one event or issue—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 goes beyond just managing symptoms to address the root causes. Indeed, a deeper understanding of the elaborate cellular processes that propel degeneration is helpful, but lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, stress management, and nutrition are sensible.
Williamson CHIROPRACTIC NUTRITION TIP: Enhance Quercitrin and Vitamin D Levels
Recent research reports also pointed out a few tips that can help manage disc degeneration. Wu et al (3) explored how the compound quercitrin could assist in the treatment of 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 a lack of Vitamin D can worsen spinal disc degeneration by starting processes that break down the supportive tissue in the discs. Let’s maybe look at adding quercitrin and Vitamin D to your daily regimen? We’ll chat at your next Williamson chiropractic appointment.
WHAT TO DO?
Don’t let disc degeneration stress you out. The reality is that spinal degeneration comes with aging, but taking charge of your spinal health sooner than later can make a big difference. By understanding the factors involved and adopting preventative measures, we can delay or even negate the impact of spinal degeneration, maintaining strong and healthy spines for longer. It is 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 describes the importance of spinal nutrition in The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management to enhance clinical outcomes.
CONTACT Apple Country Chiropractic
Schedule your Williamson chiropractic appointment with Apple Country Chiropractic today.
