Degenerative Disc Disease
Description
Degenerative Disc Disease is a condition where damaged and worn out spinal discs cause pain. It can cause a wide range of symptoms and severity. It is generally caused by the drying out of the disc. At birth the disc is about 80% water which reduces over time. Daily activities and sports cause tears in the outer tough cartilage of the disc and injuries cause swelling, soreness, and instability.
Causes
Dehydration contributes to Degenerative Disc Disease. Damage is also caused by poor posture and misaligned body mechanics that irritate spinal discs. Lifestyle choices such as tobacco use, lack of regular exercise, and inadequate nutrition can contribute to degeneration. Aging can be a cause as natural changes cause a gradual drying out of discs which impact disc strength and integrity making them less capable of absorbing shock. These all set the spinal discs up for injury from everyday wear and tear.
Primary Symptoms
Pain (dull or sharp pain), muscle spasm or cramping, leg weakness or loss of leg function, numbness, or changes in sensation are common symptoms of disc degeneration. Sneezing, coughing, and bending usually intensify the pain. Bowel or bladder control can be impacted. Sciatica is frequently associated with a lumbar disc issue.
Treatment Philosophy
The over-arching question is always..."why?" Why has a disc degeneration occurred? What activities and triggers are causing disc issues and pain ?
A thorough history will be completed to discover what activities and movements have contributed to the condition. Strategies to stop the aggravating factors will be discussed. Inflammation in the spine will be treated using Scenar. Structural misalignment will be corrected using Bowen. Structural issues must be addressed first as they cause increased stress on the spinal discs that lead to continued inflammation and further disc degeneration.
Expected Outcomes
By understanding posture and activity, reducing current inflammation with Scenar, and balancing the body structure with Bowen, positive changes will occur. A resolution of pain (usually in under 6 weeks) is very likely as body symmetry is restored. Structural alignment will result in restoring proper space between vertebrae which ultimately lessens stress on the disc. Discs can stop being damaged and nerves irritated when spinal alignment and body mechanics are addressed.