Understanding the Phases of Degeneration

Degenerative disc disease is a common, age-related condition that happens when one or more of the discs between your vertebrae begin to break down. These discs act like cushions for your spine, and when they start to wear out, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and sometimes numbness or weakness in the arms or legs.

At San Jose Chiropractic in Jacksonville, we see people in every stage of spinal degeneration—sometimes before they even realize there’s an issue. Here’s what happens in each phase.

Phase 1

In the earliest stage, the natural curve of your spine starts to change. You might not notice any pain yet, but extra pressure is already being placed on your spine, joints, and nerves. This can speed up the aging process in your spine even if you feel fine.

Phase 2

As degeneration progresses, the discs begin to lose more of their height and cushioning. The curve of your spine becomes more unnatural, and the spinal canal may narrow. At this point, pain and discomfort are more likely to show up.

Phase 3

In this stage, posture changes become more noticeable. Mobility is reduced, nerve damage is more common, and scar tissue can start to form. Pain may be more frequent and more intense.

Phase 4

The final stage is the most severe and is considered irreversible. The spine becomes very stiff, flexibility is extremely limited, and pain can be constant and debilitating.

How Dr. O Helps People with Degenerative Disc Disease

When you visit our Jacksonville chiropractic office, Dr. O will do a thorough evaluation, including X-rays if needed, to see which phase you’re in. She’s looking for smooth, healthy bone edges and even spaces between the vertebrae.

Many people are surprised to learn that degeneration often starts 10 to 20 years before symptoms begin. A patient may say their back only started hurting last week, but their X-rays may tell a very different story.

The goal of chiropractic care is to slow or stop this process by taking pressure off the nerves and restoring proper motion in the spine. Dr. O uses specific, gentle chiropractic adjustments to help the bones move the way they’re meant to.

• Phase 1: In many cases, degeneration can be reversed.

• Phase 2 or 3: While reversal isn’t possible, we can help slow the decay and improve function.

• Phase 4: Our goal is to manage pain and maintain as much mobility as possible.

Don’t Wait Until the Pain Gets Worse

You only get one spine. Taking care of it now can mean a healthier, more active life in the years ahead. Whether you live in Mandarin, San Jose, or anywhere in Jacksonville, chiropractic care can be an important part of protecting your spinal health.

Call San Jose Chiropractic today at 904-683-4476 or request an appointment online to take that first step toward a healthier spine.