Degenerative disc disease is usually a result of the aging process. However, the condition can also affect young people. The good news is that a chiropractor can prevent or slow down the degeneration of the discs in your spine. If you’re looking for a good chiropractor in Carrollton, GA, drop by Dr. Pete Lazarnick’s practice.
What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease is not actually a disease. The term refers to the process where the cushioning in your spine, called discs, starts to deteriorate because of wear and tear. Located between the vertebrae, your discs act as shock absorbers and prevent the bones from rubbing together.
The discs consist of a soft, jelly-like interior that’s enclosed in a tough, rubbery exterior. Over time, discs can start to dry up and become thinner, causing the vertebrae to move closer together. Degeneration can also occur through tears in the outer layer because of daily activities, sports, or injuries, which can lead to a loss of fluid and flexibility in the affected discs.
Disc degeneration can cause further complications, such as
- Disc hernias
- Arthritis
- Spinal stenosis
- Adult scoliosis
- Spondylolisthesis
How Do You Know If You Have Degenerative Disc Disease?
If you’re lucky, you may not experience much discomfort or pain when your discs are degenerating. However, some people do experience pain, which can range from mild to debilitating. Apart from pain in the affected discs, compressed nerves can also cause pain to spread to other areas, such as your arms, legs, and buttocks.
Other symptoms of degenerated discs can include:
- A stiff neck or lower back, especially when you’re sitting or standing in the same position for a while
- The need to change position often, or wanting to pop your joints in place
- Increased pain when sitting down or bending, twisting, or lifting
- Numbness or tingling in the extremities
- Weakness in your feet or leg muscles
How a Chiropractor Can Help
The good news is that you can take steps to prevent or slow down degenerative disc disease. The first step is to hone a healthy lifestyle, which includes maintaining an ideal body weight, not smoking, and exercising regularly.
A chiropractor like Dr. Pete can help prevent your discs from becoming stiff, and consequently wearing out, through adjustments and mobilizations. In addition, Dr. Pete can advise you on exercise routines that will help keep your discs flexible and reduce pain.
If you’re experiencing frequent back or neck pain, drop by Dr. Pete’s practice to make an appointment so that he can examine you and provide you with a treatment plan. Alternatively, you can call the office in Carrollton, GA, at 770-832-2226.