How Imbibition Keeps Your Spinal Discs Healthy
Your back plays a critical role in the overall health of your musculoskeletal system. Therefore, you need to do everything you can to keep it healthy. Your spinal cord is protected by a serious of bones called vertebrae. These vertebrae are cushioned by small spinal discs. Over time, these discs may start to shrink, which could lead to back pain and mobility problems. One way to keep your spinal discs healthy is through a process known as imbibition. It is critical for you to know how imbibition can keep your spinal discs healthy.
What Is Imbibition?
The medical definition of imbibition is the movement of nutrients and fluids into your cells and body parts even in the absence of a defined blood supply. Your blood vessels are responsible for carrying oxygen and nutrients throughout your body; however, there are parts of your body that might not have any true blood supply even though they still require oxygen and nutrients. After all, every cell in your body requires water, oxygen, protein, and sugars in order to survive.
There are several parts of your body that require nutrients yet do not have a direct blood supply. These include:
- Your spinal discs
- The cornea of your eye
- Your cartilage, which cushions your joints
Therefore, it is important for you to understand how imbibition impacts your spinal discs.
The Link Between Imbibition and the Spinal Discs
In order for your spinal discs to remain strong, they need a steady supply of nutrients. This is where imbibition can help. In order for your spinal discs to meet their nutritional requirements, it depends on imbibition. There are major spinal problems that could develop in the absence of an appropriate level of imbibition. Some of the most common examples include:
- Degenerative Disc Disease: Often shortened to DDD, this condition results from the gradual dehydration of your spinal discs over time. The process of imbibition can prevent this process from happening.
- Herniated Disc: Also known as a slipped disc, if your spinal discs do not have the strength to withstand routine wear and tear, they might herniate. The most common location for a herniated disc is between either L3 and L4 or L4 and L5. If your spinal discs have an appropriate level of oxygen and nutrients, they can resist herniation.
- Nerve Pain: Finally, when the spinal discs are healthy, the chances of someone developing nerve pain is reduced. Imbibition is responsible for helping spinal discs cushion the nerves in the spinal cord.
These are just a few of the reasons why imbibition is so important.
Chiropractors Can Encourage Spinal Imbibition
Without a direct blood supply, it is difficult for spinal discs to heal on their own. Even prescription medications are going to have a hard time reaching the spinal discs without a defined blood supply. This is where chiropractic care can help.
Chiropractors can perform adjustments that can make sure the vertebrae in the back are properly aligned. This can alleviate pain, pressure, and tension that would otherwise be present in the back. This relaxes the disc, promoting the absorption of oxygen and nutrients into the spinal discs themselves. This can help people recover from numerous spinal disc issues naturally.
Promote Spinal Disc Imbibition
These are only a few of the many reasons why imbibition is so important. The spinal discs play a critical role in making sure the spinal cord, vertebrae, and back are healthy. By relying on chiropractic care, individuals can rely on healthcare professionals who can promote the absorption of oxygen and nutrients into their spinal discs, promoting the healing process. Ready to get started? Then give us a call. We’re here to help!