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  • Writer's pictureDr. Jill King

Disc Degeneration




The natural aging process of the spine, or spinal degeneration, could be a common condition that can cause pain and discomfort as people get older. The spine is made up of bones called vertebrae that are separated by cushions called intervertebral discs. Over time, these discs can begin to deteriorate, causing changes in the structure of the spine that can lead to pain and other symptoms.

There are several factors that can contribute to the natural degeneration of the spine, including:

  1. Wear and tear: The repetitive stress of daily activities such as bending, lifting, and twisting can cause the intervertebral discs to break down over time. This can result in the discs losing height and becoming less effective at cushioning the spine.

  2. Aging: As people get older, the intervertebral discs become less flexible and less able to absorb shock. Additionally, the joints and ligaments in the spine can become stiff and less effective at supporting the spine.

  3. Genetics: Some people are more predisposed to spinal degeneration due to genetics, which can cause the discs to break down more quickly than in others.

  4. Poor posture: Poor posture, such as slouching or hunching over a computer or phone, can put added stress on the spine and contribute to degeneration.

The natural degeneration of the spine can cause a variety of symptoms, including lower back pain, stiffness, and difficulty with activities of daily living. In some cases, the degeneration can lead to conditions such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis, which can cause chronic pain and disability.

It is important to address the natural degeneration of the spine by engaging in regular physical activity and maintaining good posture. Additionally, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience chronic pain or other symptoms associated with spinal degeneration.


Disc degeneration can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

  1. Back pain: This is the most common symptom of disc degeneration and can range from mild to severe. The pain may be felt in the lower back, hips, or legs.

  2. Stiffness: People with disc degeneration may experience stiffness in the lower back, especially after prolonged periods of sitting or inactivity.

  3. Numbness or tingling: In some cases, disc degeneration can cause nerve compression, leading to numbness, tingling, burning, or weakness in the legs or feet.

  4. Difficulty with physical activities: As the condition progresses, people with disc degeneration may have difficulty with physical activities such as bending, twisting, or lifting.

  5. Sciatica: In some cases, disc degeneration can cause sciatica, which is a sharp pain that radiates down the leg.

It is important to note that not everyone with disc degeneration will experience symptoms. In some cases, the condition may be discovered during imaging tests for other conditions.

If you are experiencing symptoms of disc degeneration, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.


Chiropractors can help with disc degeneration by using a combination of manual therapies, exercises, and lifestyle modification recommendations to reduce pain, improve mobility, and slow down the progression of degeneration.

  1. Manual therapies: Chiropractors use manual therapies such as spinal manipulations, adjustments, and soft tissue therapies to relieve pressure on the affected discs and improve mobility.

  2. Exercise: Chiropractors may prescribe specific exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine and improve posture, which can help to reduce stress on the affected discs.

  3. Lifestyle modifications: Chiropractors can provide advice on lifestyle modifications such as posture, diet, and stress management to help slow down the progression of degeneration and reduce symptoms.

  4. Pain management: In some cases, chiropractors may use techniques such as electrical stimulation, heat therapy, or ice therapy to help manage pain and improve mobility.


While it is not possible to completely reverse disc degeneration, there are steps that can be taken to slow down the progression and reduce the symptoms.

Some steps that can help include:

  1. Exercise: Regular exercise, especially activities that promote flexibility and strengthening of the core muscles, can help to reduce stress on the spine and slow down the progression of degeneration.

  2. Maintaining a healthy weight: Excess weight can put added stress on the spine and contribute to degeneration. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce this stress.

  3. Good posture: Good posture can help to reduce the stress on the spine and slow down the progression of degeneration.

  4. Physical therapy: A physical therapist can work with you to develop an individualized exercise program that can help slow down the progression of degeneration and reduce symptoms.

  5. Anti-inflammatory supplements like turmeric and curcumin.


If you are experiencing symptoms of disc degeneration, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider, chiropractor, or physical therapist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

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