Episode 54 - Natural Relief for Degenerative Disc Disease

In this episode, Dr. JD Dudum explores degenerative disc disease, a common, often painful condition caused by the wearing down of spinal discs. He explains that as discs lose hydration and become more brittle, they can create pain, stiffness, and achiness in the lower back, particularly when moving from sitting to standing or bending. Although often associated with older age, degenerative disc disease can also affect younger individuals due to trauma, repetitive stress, or factors like obesity.

Dr. Dudum discusses different methods to diagnose the condition, recommending X-rays rather than MRIs since MRIs are generally needed only for detecting disc bulges or herniations. For those diagnosed with degenerative disc disease, Dr. Dudum offers practical tips to manage symptoms at home. He emphasizes the importance of movement, such as walking and specific stretches like knee-to-chest and cat-cow exercises. Anti-inflammatory supplements, inversion tables, chiropractic care, physical therapy, and acupuncture are all valuable tools to alleviate discomfort.

While spinal decompression is a successful treatment for many disc issues, Dr. Dudum advises patients with degenerative disc disease to first try non-invasive options before considering decompression therapy. He shares the success story of a patient who felt significantly better after only a few decompression sessions, underscoring how decompression can reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and help people avoid surgery.

For listeners with back pain, Dr. Dudum provides a free low back pain guide, available by texting “relief” to 925-291-5670.

• [2:35] Overview of degenerative disc disease, causes, and symptoms
• [6:50] Diagnosing degenerative disc disease: X-ray vs. MRI
• [11:30] Home remedies: stretches, walking, inversion tables, and anti-inflammatory supplements
• [17:45] Decompression therapy for degenerative disc disease vs. other disc conditions
• [21:15] Success story: Patient's improvement after decompression therapy
• [26:00] Steps to take if home remedies aren’t providing relief

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