Have you ever heard someone say, “It’s just a little stiffness,” or “I’ve had this back pain for years – it’s normal”? The truth is, what starts as minor discomfort can quietly evolve into a much bigger problem: spinal degeneration.
What most people don’t realise is just how fast spinal degeneration can set in when proper movement is lost — sometimes in as little as two weeks. That’s right. Two weeks of joint dysfunction or poor loading, and your spine may begin to degenerate. But there’s good news: chiropractic care is one of the most powerful tools to help you prevent, slow down, and in some cases reverse this process.
Let’s dive in.
The Spine: Built to Move, Not Sit Still
Your spine is designed to move. It thrives on motion — especially at the segmental (individual joint) level. Each spinal joint plays a role in keeping your nervous system healthy, your posture strong, and your movements smooth.
But when one or more of those spinal joints stops moving properly — whether from poor posture, repetitive strain, injuries, or even emotional stress — it creates joint dysfunction. This lack of proper motion doesn’t just cause pain or stiffness. It also cuts off the nutrient flow that keeps your spinal discs hydrated and healthy.
And when that happens? Degeneration begins.
How Fast Does Degeneration Start?
Let’s look at the research. Studies have shown that spinal joint immobilisation can trigger degenerative changes in as little as 2 weeks in animal models. In a foundational study by Giles and Taylor (1982), immobilised spinal segments began to show signs of cartilage damage and early disc degeneration within just 14 days.
Even more compelling, research from Hauser et al. (2011) highlights how ligaments — the stabilising structures around your spine — can become permanently weakened and damaged if not properly loaded and healed. This chronic instability accelerates the degenerative cycle.
So while degeneration might feel like it happens slowly over years, it can actually start silently and rapidly without you even noticing.
The Chiropractic Solution: Motion Is Medicine
Here’s where chiropractic comes in.
Chiropractors don’t just “crack backs” — we assess and correct areas of the spine that have lost their proper motion and function. These areas are often what we refer to as subluxations (or in modern terms, joint dysfunctions causing neurological interference).
By applying gentle, specific adjustments, we help:
- Restore motion to stuck joints
- Reduce nerve interference
- Stimulate nutrient flow to spinal discs
- Prevent further wear and tear
- Support the body’s natural healing response
In fact, a 2011 study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that patients with work-related low back pain who received ongoing chiropractic maintenance care had significantly less recurrence of disability compared to those who stopped care after initial treatment.
You Can’t Feel Spinal Degeneration (Until It’s Too Late)
One of the most dangerous things about spinal degeneration is that it’s often painless in the early stages. It’s a bit like tooth decay — by the time you feel it, damage is already well underway.
Some signs you might be heading down that path include:
- Chronic stiffness
- Decreased range of motion
- Muscle imbalances
- Recurring neck or back pain
- Poor posture
- Numbness or tingling in limbs
But why wait for symptoms to appear when you can be proactive?
The Limitless Chiropractic Approach
At Limitless Chiropractic, we’re not just about fixing problems — we’re about helping you build a limitless life through long-term spinal and nervous system health. Whether you’re active, stressed, or just sitting too much, your spine deserves regular care.
If you’re in Wellington and wondering where to begin, book your first visit today. Let us assess your spinal function before degeneration takes hold. Prevention is far easier — and far more empowering — than repair.
Something You Can Do Today
Stand up and move every 30 minutes — even just a quick stretch or walk around the room. Your spine loves movement, and a little goes a long way. Better yet, come in for a check-up. Let’s make sure your spine is moving like it should.
References:
- Giles LGF, Taylor JR. Spinal segmental hypomobility and its effect on the spinal disc and cartilage: an experimental study. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 1982.
- Hauser RA, Dolan EE, et al. Ligament injury and healing: a review of current clinical diagnostics and therapeutics. The Open Rehabilitation Journal, 2011, 4, 10-23.
- Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. Health Maintenance Care in Work-Related Low Back Pain and Its Association With Disability Recurrence. March 2011
Experience Limitless Movement Chiropractic Care in Wellington
If you’re in Wellington and looking for expert chiropractic care, we’re here to help. At Limitless Chiropractic, we focus on helping you move better, feel stronger, and live without limits. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier, more mobile you!
Ready to begin or continue your healing journey? Let’s work together to unlock your body’s natural potential for wellness.
Book Your Limitless Journey Today
or call us at (04) 891 0911