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 Vancouver Disc Centers, we encourage 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
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 overall 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 potential therapies for decelerating
or even reversing disc degeneration. What does this mean
for us? It’s clear that spinal degeneration isn’t initiated
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 tackle the underlying 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 practical.
Vancouver CHIROPRACTIC NUTRITION TIP: Enhance Quercitrin
and Vitamin D Levels
Recent research papers also pointed
out a few tips that can help contain disc degeneration. Wu et
al (3) investigated how the compound quercitrin could assist
in the treatment of 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) explained how being low in Vitamin D can worsen spinal disc degeneration by stimulating
processes that break down the supportive tissue in the discs. Let’s maybe consider adding quercitrin and Vitamin D to your daily nutrition
program? We’ll chat at your next Vancouver chiropractic
appointment.
WHAT TO DO?
Don’t let disc degeneration bother you.
The reality is that spinal degeneration comes with aging, but taking charge of your spinal health early on
can make a huge difference. By understanding the factors at
play and adopting preventative measures, we can delay or
even negate the impact of spinal degeneration, maintaining
strong and healthy spines for
longer. It’s never too early—or too late—to start
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 Vancouver Disc Centers
Make your Vancouver chiropractic
appointment with Vancouver Disc Centers soon.