Our Guide to Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is among the most common health issues that come with aging. At Dr. Phillips’ Chiropractic Nutrition & Wellness, we are dedicated to providing personalized care and treatment for a variety of conditions, including DDD in San Antonio. We would like to look at DDD including its causes, symptoms, and a patient’s treatment options.
What is Degenerative Disc Disease?
As we age, the discs in our spine can begin to wear down and lose their flexibility, leading to a condition known as degenerative disc disease (DDD). DDD results in a variety of symptoms, including back pain, neck pain, and radiating pain that travels to the arm or legs.
Disc Degeneration Causes: Three Common Culprits
Age is the primary cause of disc degeneration. Aging causes the discs in our spine to lose some of their water content, making them less pliable, and reducing their shock-absorbing ability. This natural degeneration process can unfortunately lead to disc herniation, bulging or rupture, and eventually, DDD symptoms.
Acute trauma, such as a fall or a car accident, can cause damage to the discs in the spine, leading to progressive degenerative disc pain. Repetitive strain on the spine, such as heavy lifting or sports activities, can also contribute to DDD.
Some individuals may be predisposed to degenerative disc disease due to genetic factors. Genetic predisposition aside, some genetic disorders, for instance, ankylosing spondylitis, may also increase the risk of developing DDD.
Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment
There are a variety of treatment options available for DDD in San Antonio, including chiropractic care, therapy, and medication. Chiropractic care, in particular, can help relieve pressure on the affected disc and may help promote healing. At Dr. Phillips Chiropractic Nutrition and Wellness, we offer a range of chiropractic services to help patients manage their DDD symptoms.
Nutrition and DDD
Good nutrition may also help manage and slow down DDD symptoms. A diet rich in fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean protein sources, for instance, may help reduce inflammation, which is known to contribute to the pain and discomfort associated with DDD.
Omega-3 fatty acids, typically found in fish, nuts, and seeds, may have anti-inflammatory effects and can help in managing degenerative disc pain. Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water helps maintain the elasticity of the discs and improve their shock-absorbing abilities. Need help creating a nutrition plan? You’re in good company. We work with our patients to develop personalized nutrition plans that support their individual needs and goals.
Managing Degenerative Disc Disease with Comprehensive Care
Like most spine conditions, DDD can be debilitating. If you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t wait to seek treatment. Contact Dr. Phillips Chiropractic Nutrition and Wellness in San Antonio to schedule a consultation with our chiropractor and learn more about your treatment options today. Call us at (210) 545-1144.