Spinal Degeneration

Spinal degeneration causes the spine to lose its normal structure and/or function. This symptom is usually not due to a specific injury but rather to age, repetitive stress or repeated strains, sprains, and overuse of the spine. Almost everyone experiences some disc degeneration after the age of forty.

Other forms of spinal degeneration may include bone spurs, ruptured discs and spondylosis which may cause spinal compression or fractures. These changes hinder the spine’s movement and affect the nerves and other functions.

Chiropractic care can help manage spinal degeneration by improving spinal motion and reducing inflammation through spinal manipulation, adjunct therapies and exercises. By improving the integrity and stability of the spine, we can help to slow down the degenerative process, increase nerve supply, and ultimately help to optimize health.

Near Normal Neck Curve (with Arc of Life Curvature)

Physiology: Normal curves with equal disc spacing. No visible signs of degeneration.

Prognosis: Regular chiropractic checkups are recommended for early detection and prevention of spinal decay.

 


Phase 1 Degeneration

Physiology: Misalignment with loss of curvature, soft tissue damage and nerve irritation.

Prognosis: Return to near normal may be expected with appropriate chiropractic care.

 


Phase 2 Degeneration

Physiology: Disc narrowing, calcium deposition, bone spurs and nerve irritation.

Prognosis: Further degeneration may be slowed down and prevented from getting worse with appropriate chiropractic care.

 


Phase 3 Degeneration

Physiology: Joint immobilization, bone fusion, nerve atrophy and scar tissue.

Prognosis: Slowing or stopping may be expected with appropriate chiropractic care.

 


Phase 4 Degeneration

Physiology: Advanced stage of degeneration, nerve damage, postural imbalance severe, joint motion severely limited, permanent scar tissue, fusion of spinal vertebrae.

Prognosis: Correction may not be possible, structural and neurologically impaired, but with appropriate chiropractic care, quality of life may improve.