Disc Changes Post-Cox® Flexion Distraction Manipulation Measured with MR Spectroscopy
In the world of spinal health, new discoveries continually reshape our understanding of how to effectively treat St Peters back pain and disc degeneration. One such advancement centers around the effect of chiropractic spinal manipulation, specifically Cox® Flexion Distraction like we use here at Old Mill Chiropractic, on spinal discs. Recent research has shown how this manipulation technique can change the biochemical and structural components of the disc, proposing rekindled hope for those suffering from lumbar discogenic pain in St Peters.
UNDERSTANDING COX® FLEXION DISTRACTION
Cox® Flexion Distraction is a gentle, non-invasive chiropractic technique designed to decompress the spine, alleviate pressure on the spinal discs, and enhance mobility. Chiropractors like yours at Old Mill Chiropractic choose to use it for its efficacy in treating a variety of spinal conditions, including disc herniations and degenerative disc disease. But what makes it particularly attractive is its potential to alter the structure and composition of spinal discs, as revealed through a new study involving magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS).
MEASURING DISC CHANGES WITH MAGNETIC RESONANCE SPECTROSCOPY
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy is a groundbreaking imaging technique that goes beyond traditional MRI by studying the chemical composition of tissues. It provides insights into the biochemical environment of the spinal disc, allowing healthcare professionals to measure changes at a molecular level. This capability is vital to understanding how spinal manipulation can induce positive alterations in the disc's structure and function.
RESEARCH INSIGHTS
A momentous study by Billham et al. (2024) demonstrated significant alterations in intervertebral disc composition following Cox® Flexion Distraction. The researchers detected changes in the levels of essential metabolites, such as proteoglycans and collagen, which play critical roles in disc integrity and resilience. These findings emphasize the potential of spinal manipulation to make possible disc regeneration and improve overall spinal health. (1)
Supporting this concept, Li et al. (2024) developed and just reported on an innovative way to use MRI histogram analysis to evaluate lumbar disc degeneration. Their study provided quantitative data that further corroborated the positive effects of spinal manipulative therapy on disc composition and structure. (2) Additionally, Majumdar's (2006) earlier work on MRI and spectroscopy of the intervertebral disc highlighted the ability of MRS to demonstrated key insights into the disc's condition. (3) These findings emphasize the importance of incorporating advanced imaging techniques in assessing the efficacy of SMT and other therapeutic interventions like those we use every day here at Old Mill Chiropractic. We look to provide evidence based spine care!
THE ROAD AHEAD
While these findings are bright, more research is needed to fully comprehend the long-term effects and mechanisms behind these changes. However, the current evidence emphasizes the potential of Cox® Flexion Distraction as an important tool in St Peters spinal care, providing an alternative approach to taking care of disc degeneration and associated pain.
For chiropractic patients, health researchers, and medical professionals alike, understanding the science behind these techniques is crucial in advancing spinal care and boosting patient outcomes. As more studies evolve, the integration of MRS and innovative spinal manipulation methods will likely continue to transform the field, offering new avenues for relief and recovery.
In closing, the emerging evidence suggests that Cox® Flexion Distraction, when evaluated by advanced imaging techniques like MRS, holds the potential to impact the way we approach spinal health. By unlocking the secrets of disc changes post-manipulation, the way is paved for more effective and targeted treatments, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for countless individuals battling disc-related ailments.
CONTACT Old Mill Chiropractic
Listen to this PODCAST with Dr. James Cox on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he illustrates how the body and the immune system keep remodeling and how The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management works. Quite interesting!
