Nutritional Approaches to Managing Juneau Disc Degeneration
The nutritional aspect of lumbar spinal disc degeneration seemed to be a hot topic this past month. The studies’ findings point to a few things we can do to address disc degeneration. At Aurora Chiropractic Center, we encourage a multi-pronged approach to managing disc degeneration: decreasing pain with Cox® spinal manipulation and promoting healthier discs with better diet and nutrition.
DISC DEGENERATION INFLUENCES: Metabolic and Cellular Processes
Recent research has been revealing fascinating connections between our metabolic and cellular processes and their role in spinal degeneration. For instance, Guo et al. (1) wrote about how metabolic syndrome can worsen spinal degeneration in patients with lumbar disc herniation, showing just how much systemic factors like general health can affect spinal health. On the other hand, Feng et al. (2) dove into the world of mitophagy—the process of cleaning out damaged mitochondria—within key parts of intervertebral discs like the nucleus pulposus, annulus fibrosus, and cartilage endplate. Their work offers stimulating insights into possible therapies for reducing or even reversing disc degeneration. What does this mean for us? It’s apparent that spinal degeneration isn’t initiated by just one event or issue—it’s a complex process swayed by both systemic issues, like metabolic health, and cellular mechanisms, like mitophagy. This indicates the need for a well-rounded approach to spinal care, one that goes beyond just handling symptoms to tackle the root causes. Indeed, a deeper appreciation of the intricate cellular processes that drive degeneration is helpful, but lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, stress management, and nutrition are sensible.
Juneau CHIROPRACTIC NUTRITION TIP: Enhance Quercitrin and Vitamin D Levels
Recent research reports also pointed out a few tips that can help manage disc degeneration. Wu et al (3) explored how the compound quercitrin could assist in the treatment of spinal disc degeneration by decreasing inflammation and preventing cell damage. Adding quercitrin into future therapies may offer a promising solution for managing disc degeneration. Li et al (4) explained how a lack of Vitamin D can aggravate spinal disc degeneration by triggering processes that break down the supportive tissue in the discs. Let’s maybe look at adding quercitrin and Vitamin D to your daily nutrition program? We’ll chat at your next Juneau chiropractic appointment.
WHAT TO DO?
Don’t let disc degeneration stress you out. The reality is that spinal degeneration comes with aging, but taking charge of your spinal health early on can make a huge difference. By understanding the factors involved and adopting preventative measures, we can delay or even negate the impact of spinal degeneration, keeping our spines stronger and healthier for longer. It is never too early—or too late—to begin taking care of your spine!
Listen to this PODCAST with Dr. James Cox on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he illustrates the importance of spinal nutrition in The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management to enhance clinical outcomes.
CONTACT Aurora Chiropractic Center
Schedule your Juneau chiropractic appointment with Aurora Chiropractic Center today.

