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Spinal Degeneration and Decay
The Phases of Degeneration
Your Spine Degenerates in Stages or Phases:
This process in the spine has similarities to tooth decay in that it shows up usually because of neglect and gets worse without correction. Also, just like tooth decay, it can happen to anyone, regardless of age.
Because it is often seen in older people, many believe it's merely the normal aging process. It is not. This progressively worsening, degenerative condition is the result of uncorrected spinal misalignment. Spinal decay is how your body deals with the stress of gravity.
It just so happens that most people have spinal problems that they've ignored for years.
Normal Healthy Spine
When your spine has proper alignment and motion it will have a graceful forward curve, healthy discs and bones. The edges of each bone will be well defined. There should be equal disc spacing between each bone and the openings for nerve roots should be clear and unobstructed. When your spine is healthy it will allow for the nerves to exit the spine without irritation. The gentle, continuous curve of the spine allows for shock absorption and even wear along all of the vertebrae.
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Degeneration Phase 1
 First your spine loses its normal balance. There may be a loss of normal spinal curve and a reduced ability to turn and bend. In some cases, the disc space between adjacent vertebrae may be reduced. Discs can also become wedge-shaped, risking more serious soft tissue damage. This loss of curve will create excessive tension and stress along your spinal vertebrae. Your nerves may be affected and the vital life energy that flows over them is interfered with. During this phase your joints, discs, nerves and posture become stressed and age more quickly. Surprisingly, there may be no pain other than occasional minor discomfort. Also present may be a slight lessening of energy and slight height loss. Response to spinal care is generally good.
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Degeneration Phase 2
Here there is a much greater degree of decay, disc narrowing and bone spurs (deformations); postural changes are much worse. If neglected, in Phase Two, joint surfaces lose their clearly defined edges as the early signs of bone spurs become visible on X-ray views. Some believe that the body senses the accompanying inflammation as the sign of a broken bone. It begins the process of depositing calcium salts. Without being in a cast to prevent movement, the fusion doesnt occur. Yet. With chiropractic care significant improvement is possible.
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Degeneration Phase 3
 This is the most advanced stage of subluxation degeneration. The postural imbalance is severe and motion is limited. There stage can cause severe nerve damage and permanent scar tissue is formed where the bones may begin to fuse. In this phase we will various forms of symptoms from pain to other body or organ dysfunction. By now the condition is considered irreversible, although chiropractic may give some symptomatic relief.
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