Degenerative disc disease is a condition in which your intervertebral discs begin to shrink and degenerate, which may cause symptoms such as neck pain in some individuals. According to the Spine-Health website, though your disc degeneration may be progressive, the symptoms associated with this condition may not get worse over time. Some people with this condition do not develop symptoms at all. Dietary supplements may help treat your disc disease-related neck pain, although you should always consult your doctor before using these powerful natural substances.
Degenerative Disc Disease Info
Degenerative disc disease is a common--though not necessarily normal--part of the aging process. As you get older, your spinal discs begin losing their elasticity and their ability to absorb forces. Degenerative disc disease can manifest in all parts of your spine, including your cervical spine, or neck, causing neck pain or discomfort. Back.com states that some of the most common signs and symptoms associated with this condition include back or neck pain and pain, numbness, tingling and weakness in the extremities.
Commonly Used Supplements
Certain dietary supplements may be commonly used in treating neck pain, including neck pain associated with degenerative disc disease. The University of Maryland Medical Center touts devil's claw as one of the most effective dietary supplements for this health problem. Other helpful dietary supplements for neck pain include MSM, L-proline, oat straw, essential fatty acids and vitamin C with bioflavonoids. More scientific research may be required to substantiate the purported health benefits of these supplements for this health purpose.
Supplement in Focus
Devil's claw may be one of the most helpful--and most commonly used--dietary supplements in treating degenerative disc disease-related neck pain. According to master herbalist Ed Smith, author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual," devil's claw helps relieve pain and inflammation and is well-known for its ability to treat rheumatic diseases. This dietary supplement has historically been used in treating a wide range of musculoskeletal health complaints, including neck pain, back pain, tendinitis and arthritis.
Disclaimer
In most cases, degenerative disc disease does not cause any symptoms. If you do experience symptoms associated with this condition, conservative care methods and natural therapies may be helpful in alleviating your symptoms. If you are diagnosed with degenerative disc disease, discuss all possible treatment methods with your doctor. Avoid using dietary supplements in treating your degenerative disc disease-related neck pain until you have a better understanding of the risks and limitations associated with supplementation.
References
- Spine-Health: What is Degenerative Disc Disease?
- Back.com: Degenerative Disc Disease
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Herbs and Supplements for Neck Pain
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
