Degenerative joint disease is a condition that often develops as part of the natural aging process. It can affect almost any joint in your body, including your spinal facet joints. If you’ve been diagnosed with this disease and are experiencing pain and other symptoms, part of your degenerative joint disease treatment plan will likely involve some lifestyle changes. To help you get started, here are four modifications you can make to your lifestyle to help promote a healthy spine.

Lifestyle changes to help with spinal degenerative joint disease

The changes you choose to make will vary depending on your individual circumstances and are best discussed with your physician. Where applicable, the following changes can help:

1. Lose excess weight. Extra body weight puts more strain on the spine and can cause it to compress and degenerate faster than it would at a healthy body weight.
2. Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol consumption. Alcohol and tobacco products have a damaging effect on the body, including the spine.
3. Follow a balanced diet. A well-balanced diet is great for your general wellbeing and also to promote a healthy spine. Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated is helpful as well.
4. Correct poor posture. Whether you stand or sit for extended periods of time, learning proper posture can help protect the spine and slow degeneration.

These lifestyle modifications can be an effective part of your degenerative joint disease treatment, especially when combined with other conservative approaches.

When to contact USA Spine Care

In more severe cases of spinal degenerative joint disease, conservative treatments and lifestyle changes may not be adequate in alleviating your symptoms. If this is the case, you may be a candidate for minimally invasive surgery at USA Spine Care. Our outpatient procedures are a safer and effective alternative to traditional open neck and back surgery, and our surgeons have helped tens of thousands of patients find relief from their spinal conditions.^

If you would like to learn more about receiving degenerative joint disease treatment at USA Spine Care, contact us today.

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