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In the Know
Ask A Professional
Dr. J. Hunter Owen, D.C.
WellnessOne Inc
7739 Northcross Drive, Ste. J
(512) 451-9655
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Q:What is spinal degeneration?
A:Degeneration is basically a fusing of the spine. With gradual misalignment, the vertebrae lose their flexibility and the curvature of the spine is reduced. Over time, the body doesn’t see the spine as a joint anymore, it treats it instead as a bone.
Q: What are some causes of misalignment?
A:First of all, misalignment can occur as early as during the birthing process. Activities of daily living (falls, improper sleeping, sitting at your desk, etc.) and short, acute tramautic episodes can also produce scar-tissue that acts as a kind of “slowly restricting cast” that reduces flexibility.
Q: How can misalignment be corrected?
A:Well, it’s never too late. Restoring motion to the body and regular visits to a chiropractor are two easy ways to regain curve in the spine. In my practice, I have seen improvements in curvature
anywhere from 10 to 15 degrees.
Q:In terms of visiting a chiropractor, what is a good rule of thumb?
A:It really depends on several factors, but for children I would recommend a couple times per month, starting as early as infancy. For adults, once a week is a good rule of thumb.
Q:Is there any way to detect misalignment or spinal degeneration?
A:At times, there will be pain or an uncomfortable feeling, but that can be mitigated with movement and/or painkillers. The important thing to remember is that just because the pain goes away, that doesn’t mean the problem has gone away. For example, pressure on spinal nerves can lead to problems with organs connected to those nerves. This is something you wouldn’t necessarily feel as pain.
Photo: Dr. J. Hunter Owen, D.C.
WellnessOne Inc
7739 Northcross Drive, Ste. J
(512) 451-9655
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