The single most common condition that comes into chiropractic offices is Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD). However, the term Degenerative Disc Disease is misleading. It is not a disease, it is a condition. You are considered to have DDD if you show signs of spinal disc wear AND your pain can’t be attributed to another problem. Check out this list:
- Stiffness
- Soreness
- Pain from mild to severe
- Pain that affects low back, buttocks, thighs, legs
- Pain in upper back muscles
- Pain radiating into the arms and hands
- Headaches
- Pain when sitting
- Pain when lifting, bending or twisting
- Less pain when walking and moving
- Decreased pain with positional changes
- Numbness/tingling in arms/legs
- Weakness in hands/feet
What do these typical problems have in common?
ALL of them can have an underlying issue related to degenerating discs The loss of disc height leads to joint erosion, muscle/ligament damage and pinched nerves.
Chiropractors are great at dealing with the ramifications of DDD. However, if you really want to change your spine and the way it functions--It takes time.
A huge percentage of what I treat is an acute symptomatic flare-up of a chronic, degenerating spine. Helping you through tough times is part of what I do. Ultimately, consistent chiropractic care is the only way to slow, stop or reverse the process of DDD.
Let me know if you have any questions during your next adjustment.
Stay well adjusted,
Dr. Kammer