Spinal Degeneration

 

Spinal decay is a degenerative process that worsens with time. If neglected, or simply ignored, this condition quietly progresses without obvious symptoms. 

It starts with some type of uncorrected trauma to the spine such as a slip, a fall, or a car accident. Sometimes it can occur as early as the birth process or when we learn to walk. When your spine degenerates, spinal bones begin to deform, discs swell then shrink, and ligaments, tendons, and muscles first harden then weaken.  This causes you to lose balance, flexibility, stability, and strength. Most people believe they lose height when they reach old age; however, it may begin in your 20’s and 30’s as one of the symptoms of spinal degeneration.

Spinal degeneration is like tooth decay. As with tooth decay, early detection of spinal decay can help avoid painful symptoms and permanent damage.  If left uncorrected, the body responds by depositing calcium onto the affected joint surfaces, ligaments, and connective tissue.

The side view of your neck should have a forward banana shaped curve, equal disc spacing and unobstructed openings for nerve roots to exit the spinal cord.

The first phase of spinal decay involves loss of curve and reduced range of motion. At this stage, some patients often say there is no pain other than occasional discomfort while others complain of headaches, neck, or shoulder pain.

In the second phase of degeneration, there is a much greater degree of decay, disc narrowing, and bone spurs. Postural changes are much more evident and spinal canal narrowing (stenosis) may occur. This phase is characterized by aches and pains, fatigue and a diminished ability to cope with stress. This condition is very common - by age 40, 80% of males and 76% of females exhibit moderate disc degeneration. With chiropractic care at this stage, significant improvement is possible.

In the third and most advanced stage of degeneration, the postural imbalance is severe and motion is limited. There may be extensive nerve damage, permanent scar tissue is formed and bones may begin to fuse. Individuals experience pain, various degrees of physical or mental disability and continued loss of energy and height. At this stage, the condition is considered irreversible, although chiropractic care may give some symptomatic relief.

The purpose of chiropractic care is to locate the areas of the spine that are not working right and use specific adjustments to improve function and structure. Chiropractic can slow and even reverse spinal degeneration by improving spinal balance and posture. Dr. Simmons recommends bringing in your children for periodic spinal checkups as a preventative measure. To schedule a complimentary consultation, please call 304-925-5003 or schedule online at www.simmonsfamilychiro.com