5 Great Non-Prescription Remedies for Vertebrogenic Low Back Pain:
Statistics show that worldwide back pain impacts the health of 540 million people. Experts say that up to 80 percent of Americans will experience back pain in their lifetime – perhaps you are one of them. Unfortunately, as many as 85% of patients are diagnosed with “non-specific” lower back pain, making treatment elusive, ineffective, or counterproductive.
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What is Vertebrogenic Low Back Pain, and how is it diagnosed?
Back pain is complicated but can be narrowed down to three primary conditions: discogenic (due to the intravertebral discs), spinal (i.e., spinal stenosis), or Vertebrogenic (damage to bone or joint structures).
“Vertebrogenic” [ver″tĕ-bro-jen´ik] refers to a condition that arises in the vertebra or in the vertebral column and not in the back discs. Every vertebra has vertebral endplates “that are positioned between the vertebrae (bones of the spine) and the intervertebral discs (gel-filled structures that protect and cushion the vertebrae).”
Research shows chronic low back pain may be caused by lumbar vertebral endplate changes involving the basivertebral nerve (BVN), and again, this is not disc-related or discogenic. The pain comes from the bone (vertebrae) and not the disc.
The BVN runs through the vertebrae and into the endplates. Changes can occur to endplates due to aging, genetics, disc degeneration, and the general wear and tear of daily living, causing inflammation and damage. Studies of the BVN show that it can transmit pain signals from the damaged endplates resulting in vertebrogenic low back pain.
5 Great Non-Prescription Remedies for Vertebrogenic Low Back Pain is a (News7Health) article.
Getting a precise diagnosis with “Modic Changes”
Vertebrogenic low back pain symptoms can appear like those of other back conditions making it difficult even for orthopedic physicians (experts on the musculoskeletal system) to diagnose. Diagnostic testing using MRI (magnetic resonance imaging ) or CT Scan (computed tomography scan) can assist doctors in seeing specific changes that occur in vertebral endplates that indicate nerve dysfunction. These changes are called Modic Changes and are named after the doctor who classified them in 1988, Dr. Michael Modic.
Symptoms of Vertebrogenic Low Back Pain
Symptoms may start with dull aches and pains in the middle low back and can include:
- Stiffness & decreased range of motion
- Burning, tingling
- Muscle spasms
- Postural problems – “bent” can’t stand straight
Treatment Options and Strategies for Vertebrogenic Low Back Pain
Traditional treatments include both invasive and non-invasive options such as:
- Physical therapy
- Weight reduction
- Specific back exercises
- Spinal manipulation
- Injections
- NSAIDs,
- Opioids (used with server pain)
- Basivertebral nerve ablation
- Surgery
Alternative Natural, non-invasive remedies include:
- Acupuncture
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Yoga
- Natural Supplementation.
5 Natural Supplements That Can Ease Vertebrogenic Low Back Pain
Non-prescription natural supplements may offer relief without the serious side effects of traditional medications. It’s always a good idea to check with your doctor before adding any new product into your medical regimen – not all supplements are effective or safe for everyone.
5 Great Non-Prescription Remedies for Vertebrogenic Low Back Pain is a (News7Health) report.
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)
This naturally occurring compound contains sulfur and is found in many vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, and collard greens, as well as in fruits, grains, meats, whole grains, milk, and dairy products. MSM helps form connective tissues like cartilage, tendons, and ligaments.
The anti-inflammatory properties of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) are well documented by scientific research. When used as a supplement, MSM can relieve muscle spasms and stiffness. Studies indicate that MSM inhibits NF-kB, a protein complex involved in inflammatory responses in your body. It may also reduce pain by slowing the nerve impulses that transmit pain signals.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice familiar to those who enjoy Indian food – it’s what gives curry its vibrant yellow color. Turmeric root contains an anti-inflammatory compound called curcumin.
Curcumin has been shown to reduce inflammation and help with joint pain (The facets in your back are joints that connect the bones of the spine). Curcumin lowers the levels of two enzymes in the body that cause inflammation and is a powerful antioxidant.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin can stand alone as a supplement, but it is often paired with glucosamine to achieve pain management. Both substances occur naturally in the body; chondroitin is in the cartilage surrounding joints, and glucosamine is in the fluid around joints (synovial fluid). Joint stiffness and cartilage loss are common byproducts of aging. Recalling that vertebral end plate damage is the primary cause of vertebrogenic low back pain, it’s important to note that The end plate is a bilayer of cartilage and bone and could possibly benefit from a supplement containing chondroitin. If glucosamine is included in the supplement, it could ease stiffness allowing for improved movement in the lower back.
LUMA by Laura
LUMA by Laura, a natural supplement company, has formulated a blend (in capsule form) consisting of chondroitin, glucosamine, turmeric, MSM, and several other well-known anti-inflammatory ingredients called Ultra Joint Flex – Luma Bones. Their products, consisting of all-natural ingredients, are made in the United States.
This article “5 Great Non-Prescription Remedies for Vertebrogenic Low Back Pain” was originally published in News7Health]
Cannabidiol (CBD) oil
CBD oil is an extract made from the cannabis plant. It contains no THC (the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana) and is legal in all 50 states. CBD helps relieve pain through the use of Cannabinoid receptors that interact with receptors in the brain and spinal cord. These receptors help regulate our mood, sleep patterns, appetite, and more. CBD also interacts with other chemicals in the body that affect pain perception.
CBD can treat back pain in several ways. When CBD is taken orally (as a tincture), it addresses vertebrogenic low back pain by working on the body as a whole – reducing inflammation and relaxing muscles. It also relieves anxiety and stress, two common symptoms associated with back pain – and can help you sleep better. A topical CBD product such as a lotion or gel can be applied directly on the lower back to address pain in that area. You might need to experiment to find out if your situation responds to oral or topical treatments.
Partnered Process is an example of a provider of a large selection of high-quality CBD/Hemp products that are third-party tested for quality assurance. Located in Wisconsin, they work directly with local farmers and use small batch extraction to produce a full spectrum of hemp oil.
Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral that helps maintain healthy bones and muscles – additionally, it contributes to nerve function and muscle contraction. While magnesium is available in numerous plant and animal foods, a study published in 2020: Relationship between Magnesium Intake and Chronic Pain in U.S. Adults stated that “ a majority of the U.S. adult population does not consume adequate amounts of magnesium.”
Magnesium can assist in alleviating verterbrogenic low back pain by reducing inflammation and inflammatory markers, helping muscles relax and improving sleep. It’s calming effect on NMDA receptors (NMDARs) located in the brain can also help with pain management.
Magnesium supplements are readily available and inexpensive. HelloHealth has produced a high absorbing supplement containing magnesium glycinate – a form most useful for chronic stress and inflammatory conditions. Happy Calm Magnesium – magnesium glycinate.
You don’t have to “live with” vertebrogenic low back pain
Seeking a professional assessment and getting an accurate diagnosis of this elusive back condition is critical before deciding how to approach it. Non-Prescription natural remedies can be a good place to start. Keep in mind that chronic, persistent pain or pain that worsens should never be ignored or tolerated – stay in touch with your doctor to explore further treatment options.
Further Reading:
The Role of Vertebral End Plates in Low Back Pain
Vertebrogenic Pain: A Paradigm Shift in Diagnosis and Treatment of Axial Low Back Pain – PMC
Considering Different CBD Products for Back Pain
Modic changes in the lumbar spine and their association with body composition, fat distribution and intervertebral disc height – a 3.0 T-MRI study – PMC.
Important Note: The information contained in this article (5 Great Non-Prescription Remedies for Vertebrogenic Low Back Pain) is for general informational purposes only, and should not be construed as health or medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease or health condition. Before embarking on any diet, fitness regimen, or program of nutritional supplementation, it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional in order to determine its safety and probable efficacy in terms of your individual state of health.
