Phases of spinal degeneration
Spinal degeneration is a progressive process with 4 clearly identifiable phases. The sooner you act, the more you can recover your spinal health.
The 4 phases of spinal degeneration
Shortly after the discovery of X-rays, chiropractors began using this tool to identify the state of the spine. Degeneration is a process that can be revealed with this technique.
Normal Curvature
The neck has an elegant forward curvature. The edges of each bone are well-defined, with the same disc space between each bone and clear, unobstructed nerve openings.
Phase 1 – Initial
Loss of normal curve. Although this process can occur anywhere in the spine, it is easiest to observe in the neck. It can be reversed with chiropractic care.
Phase 2 – Degeneration
Deformation of bone edges (bone spurs). Decrease in disc space. Changes are more evident but still respond to regular chiropractic care.
Phase 3 – Advanced
Fusion of bones. Significant loss of disc space. Requires intensive chiropractic care. The goal is to stop the progress and improve nerve function.
What phase are you in?
The only way to know is with a chiropractic evaluation. The sooner you act, the more you can recover. Don’t wait for symptoms to become unbearable.
