Degenerative disc disease, or spondylosis, involves the breakdown of discs between bones in the spine. The gel-like material in these discs provides cushioning between vertebral bones. Turmeric, as an herbal remedy, is not specifically indicated for treating degenerative disc disease, but its anti-inflammatory effects may be helpful. Consult a qualified health-care provider before taking turmeric as an herbal remedy for any health condition.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease is not actually a disease, according to Mayfield Clinic for Brain and Spine, located in Ohio and surrounding states, but rather a condition in which spinal discs lose their flexibility and cushioning features. The condition tends to develop with age, as the discs lose some of their water content, and it also can be caused by injury. It's most common in the lumbar, or lower back, area. Inflammation develops when a tear occurs in the disc and some of the gel-like material leaks out, which irritates the surrounding nerves. You might have heard this referred to as a herniated disc.
Symptoms
Pain associated with degenerative disc disease ranges from non-existent to debilitating. Depending on which disc ruptures, pain can affect different parts of the back or move into the hips and down the legs. Inflammation and instability caused by degenerative disc disease can lead to painful muscle spasms. Because turmeric may decrease inflammation, it may be useful as an herbal treatment for inflammatory conditions, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Turmeric
The U.S. National Library of Medicine and the University of Maryland Medical Center, UMMC, which provide information on herbal therapies on their websites, do not list turmeric as indicated for degenerative disc disease in particular, but for inflammation in general. Research is limited on the effectiveness of turmeric in relieving pain due to osteoarthritis, but it may be of benefit because of its ability to decrease inflammation, according to the UMMC. Osteoarthritis can be a factor in the development of degenerative disc disease.
Considerations
Your doctor may recommend taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, or NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, naproxen or celecoxib to relieve the pain and inflammation of degenerative disc disease. Long-term use may cause stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding, however. Corticosteroids also decrease nerve inflammation and swelling, but they can cause many side effects, especially when taken on a long-term basis. Muscle relaxant medications relieve muscle spasms, but they have sedating effects and may become habit-forming. Turmeric is generally safe when taken in recommended doses, although taking large amounts on a long-term basis may cause upset stomach and stomach ulcers. You shouldn't take medicinal doses of turmeric if you are pregnant or have gallbladder problems, according to MedlinePlus. Turmeric may boost the blood-thinning effects of medications with anticoagulant properties, including NSAIDs.
References
- Mayfield Clinic: Degenerative Disc Disease
- Chandler Chiropractic & Biomedical Acupuncture Center: Degenerative Disc Disease
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Turmeric
- MedlinePlus: Turmeric
- MayoClinic.com; Corticosteroid Side Effects; 2011
- Spine Health; Muscle Relaxants; Peter F. Ullrich, Jr., M.D.; February 3, 2011
