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 degeneration and the means by which chiropractic care can correct the associated problems may be the answer. Chiropractic can fix many problems associated with subluxation degeneration and help senior patients feel years younger and healthier than ever.

The Phases of Subluxation Degeneration

Even if your spine was once perfectly straight and optimal, as you age and undergo the rigors of daily physical activity, your spine will degenerate. Vertebrae fuse together as the cartilage discs between them degenerate, creating a misalignment known as vertebral subluxation complex. This ailment occurs in four phases, with each creating progressively more difficult symptoms and health issues.

Vital Life Chiropractic degeneration phase 1

Phase I

The first phase of subluxation 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 diagnose this issue and stop further misalignment and degeneration.

Vital Life Chiropractic degeneration phase 2

Phase II

Phase II of vertebral subluxation sees the Phase I misalignment continue further, with spaces between the discs beginning to narrow, the patient’s range of motion beginning to decrease, and certain stiffness and aches developing. At this point, prior damage may be irreversible, but chiropractic can help to restore functioning to near-normal levels.

Vital Life Chiropractic degeneration phase 3

Phase III

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 can still slow or even stop the degeneration and relieve many of the symptoms you might be experiencing.

Vital Life Chiropractic degeneration phase 4

Phase IV

This is the final stage of subluxation degeneration. At this point, you experience a marked decrease in the quality of life, and longevity is lessened. Neurological and bone damage previously suffered are permanent and the vertebra are fused. Range of motion may be severely limited and a number of other health issues may manifest.

However, with proper chiropractic care, the patient can sometimes relieve pain and improve overall nervous functioning enough that they can still enjoy living life. This is true even at phase IV. If you may be experiencing symptoms of subluxation degeneration, and are looking for a Lithia Springs chiropractor, contact Vital Life Chiropractic to schedule an appointment today.

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