Nutritional Approaches to Managing San Jose 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 Chiropractic Solutions, we typically follow 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 uncovering interesting 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, showing just how much systemic factors like general health can affect 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 possible therapies for reducing or even reversing disc degeneration. What does this imply for our daily lives? It’s clear 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 is more than just handling symptoms to tackle the root causes. Indeed, a deeper understanding of the intricate cellular processes that drive degeneration is helpful, but lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, stress management, and nutrition are sensible.
San Jose CHIROPRACTIC NUTRITION TIP: Enhance Quercitrin and Vitamin D Levels
Recent research papers also pointed out 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 reducing 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 worsen 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 talk at your next San Jose 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 big difference. By understanding the factors at play and adopting protective measures, we can delay or even negate 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 describes the importance of spinal nutrition in The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management to optimize clinical outcomes.
CONTACT Chiropractic Solutions
Make your San Jose chiropractic appointment with Chiropractic Solutions soon.
