Phases of Degeneration
As we age, the stresses of daily life and activity wear our body down. This can cause our spines to degenerate, which results in pain, reduced mobility and even illness which prevents us from enjoying life and forces us into the role of spectator. For many who want to recover the joy in their daily activities, learning about the phases of spinal degeneration and the means by which chiropractic care can correct the associated problems may be the answer. Chiropractic can fix many problems associated with spinal degeneration and help senior patients feel younger and healthier!
The Phases of Spinal Degeneration
Even if your spine was once perfectly straight, as you age and undergo the rigors of daily physical activity, your spine will degenerate. Vertebrae fuse together as the cartilage discs between them decreased, creating a misalignment known as vertebral subluxation complex. This ailment occurs in four phases, with each creating progressively more difficult symptoms and health issues.
PHASE 1 DEGENERATION
The first phase of spinal degeneration sees the basic and normal curve of the spine alter. This doesn’t necessarily represent damage, but it is a symptom of changing space between the discs. Generally this phase goes unnoticed because it carries no pain. However, proper chiropractic care can identify this issue and stop further misalignment and degeneration.
PHASE 2 DEGENERATION
Phase II of vertebral subluxation sees the Phase I misalignment continue further. The spaces between the discs begin to narrow, which causes the patient’s range of motion beginning to limit, and certain stiffness and aches develop. At this point, prior damage may be irreversible, but chiropractic care can help to restore function to near-normal levels.
PHASE 3 DEGENERATION
At phase III, proper healthcare is essential or spinal fusion begins. Disc damage has by now become permanent, as has the abnormal curvature of the spine. Degeneration continues to worsen, but chiropractic care can still slow or even stop the degeneration. This can relieve many of the symptoms you might be experiencing.
PHASE 4 DEGENERATION
This is the final stage of spinal degeneration. At this point, you experience a marked decrease in the quality of life, and longevity is decreased. Nerve and bone damage is now permanent and the vertebrae are fused. Range of motion may be severely limited and a number of other health issues are likely present.