About Fernandina Beach Disc Degeneration

Introduction

You hear a lot about disc degeneration or degenerative disc disease or the old stand-by term, "arthritis" even though it really doesn't define the source of pain. Disc degeneration is the appropriate term for a common cause of lower back pain due to thinning of the disc. 

Definition

Disc degeneration is the thinning of the disc. 

disc degeneration
 disc degeneration late
 
Description
 
As disc degeneration progresses, its thinning results in a narrowed spinal canal space, possible facet joint irritation, and bone spur development on the bony vertebrae that can be painful. 
 
 
 
Video description of progression of disc herniation: normal, degenerate, herniated 
 
Examination

A thorough, clinical examination that may include imaging is important to your recovery.

 
Lumbar Spine Exam Description
 
Treatment

In office, Amelia Chiropractic Clinic uses Cox Technic Flexion Distraction and Decompression to widen the canal space, drop the intradiscal pressure and increase the disc height to relieve pain.

You will welcome the Cox Technic manipulation that gently "pulls you apart," as many patients describe the treatment or say they need.

 
 Graphic Animation of Cox Technic - Lumbar Spine
 The disc is pressing on the nerve. Note that as the disc herniation reduces, the pinched nerve is relieved. 
  This is an animation of the goal of Cox Technic Flexion-Distraction and Decompression: reduced irritation of spinal elements enough to relieve pain and help you regain your quality of life. The amount of decrease in size of the herniated disc necessary for pain relief varies from 0% to 100% for each individual patient.

 
 
 Cox Technic Protocol I - for severe pain or pain that extends below the knee
 
 
 Cox Technic Protocol II - for pain that is in the low back and stays above the knee
 
At Home Care

At home you may want to avoid sitting for long periods of time, wear a support brace if recommended, take nutritional supplements that help rebuild disc cartilage, sleep on a supportive mattress, sit in an ergonomically designed chair, avoid constipation which just forces you to use pressure that your spine doesn't need, and modify your daily activities as needed.

Clinical Case Reports

    Contact Amelia Chiropractic Clinic for gentle relief of your lumbar spine degenerative disc disease pain.

    "This information and website content is not intended to diagnose, guarantee results, or recommend specific treatment or activity. It is designed to educate and inform only. Please consult your physician for a thorough examination leading to a diagnosis and well-planned treatment strategy. See more details on the DISCLAIMER page. Content is reviewed by Dr. James M. Cox I."