HOW CAN WE HELP? Call or text Us 704-799-1416
HOW CAN WE HELP? Call or text Us 704-799-1416
Every individual is unique, with varying rates of degeneration and healing. The progression of subluxation degeneration can differ significantly from person to person. The further along the condition has advanced in your spine, the more challenging and time-intensive the journey to improvement may be.
This is why we emphasize the importance of early care to stop and prevent the progression of spinal degeneration. At White Chiropractic in Mooresville, Dr. Curt White is extensively trained to assist patients with degenerative disc issues. He collaborates closely with patients to help slow or halt the advancement of this condition, promoting better spinal health and overall well-being.
The real tragedy of spinal degeneration is that it is preventable. With corrective treatment in its early stages, you can stop this relentless condition from running its inevitable course. The sooner we catch it, the better your chances of maintaining a healthy, functioning spine and avoiding long-term complications.
Phase I: Early Spinal Degeneration
Spinal degeneration is a progressive condition that worsens over time. Phase I typically occurs within the first 20 years following uncorrected spinal trauma. Pain may or may not be present during this stage. While disc and tissue decay have not yet begun, there is already impairment of the nervous system.
With appropriate chiropractic care initiated during Phase I, total correction is generally achievable. Addressing this degenerative process in young individuals is an effective preventative measure that promotes better health and well-being. However, if left uncorrected, Phase I sets the foundation for Phase II of spinal degeneration.
Phase II: Progressive Spinal Degeneration
During Phase II, disc narrowing and abnormal calcium salt deposits (spurring) develop along the joint surfaces between adjacent vertebrae, creating a rough, jagged appearance on X-rays. At this stage, initial intensive care typically requires more time than in Phase I, with rehabilitative care potentially lasting up to 30 months.
While some spines in Phase II may return to near-normal function, most will show significant improvement in functionality while retaining signs of previous neglect, such as disc degeneration and spurring. The absence of specific pain can often mask the worsening condition, making it harder to detect without proper evaluation.
If left uncorrected, and with continued exposure to daily spinal stress, Phase II progresses to Phase III, further compromising spinal health and function.
Phase III: Advanced Subluxation Degeneration
Phase III is typically seen in individuals who have experienced undetected vertebral subluxations for 40 to 65 years. This stage is characterized by significant calcium salt production, often leading to fusion of spinal structures. X-rays reveal sharp spurs and irregular, jagged joint surfaces. At this point, normal motion and nerve function are severely impaired.
Due to the extensive damage to the spinal structure, complete healing is no longer possible. Rehabilitative care lasting 30 months or more is often required to address decades of abuse and neglect. While appropriate chiropractic care can improve function and provide symptomatic relief, significant reversal of the condition is rare.
The primary clinical goal in Phase III is to halt the degenerative process and prevent progression to Phase IV, ensuring the best possible quality of life.
Phase IV: Irreversible Subluxation Degeneration
Phase IV is a permanent and severe condition, rarely observed in individuals under the age of 65. By this stage, many vertebrae have lost their structure and function, fusing together into irregular, immobile blocks of calcium.
This advanced degeneration is typically unresponsive to care. Chiropractic treatment at this stage focuses on preserving the health and functionality of spinal areas that have not yet reached Phase IV but are under increased stress due to the condition.
