Understanding Degenerative Disc Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Back pain can dampen life's daily activities. Do you find yourself wincing with every movement? If so, degenerative disc disease (DDD) might be the culprit. This condition targets the discs that cushion the bones in your spine. This causes them to break down over time.

As you age, general wear and tear takes its toll on these vital spinal discs. Without their shock-absorbing capabilities, the vertebrae grind together. This results in pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.

Do not let this condition keep you from enjoying an active lifestyle. Understand the causes and explore effective management options to keep you moving.

Causes

Aging is the main culprit behind this condition. As years go by, spinal discs lose flexibility. They cannot absorb as much shock anymore. Other factors can worsen disc degeneration, too. These include:
 

• Injury or trauma to the spine
• Repetitive stress or strain on the spine, such as from heavy lifting or poor posture
• Genetic predisposition
• Obesity or excess weight
• Smoking

As discs degenerate, they get thinner. Cracks and tears begin to form, and their cushioning abilities diminish. This lack of support for your vertebrae leads to symptoms.

Common Symptoms to Look Out for

DDD symptoms vary in type and severity. It often depends on the location and severity of the degeneration. Common symptoms include:
 

• Back pain, which may radiate to the hips, legs, or arms
• Neck pain, which may radiate to the shoulders or arms
• Reduced range of motion or spinal stiffness
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the extremities
• Difficulty standing or walking for extended periods

Sometimes, the degeneration may also cause bone spurs or herniated discs. These can further exacerbate the symptoms.

Treatment Options to Consider

Conservative, non-surgical treatment starts first. Pain medication like anti-inflammatories or prescription painkillers can provide relief. Physical therapy improves flexibility, strength, and posture. Epidural steroid injections reduce inflammation around nerves. Lifestyle changes like weight loss, better posture, and activity modification can also help.

When conservative treatment fails, surgery might be necessary. Options include spinal fusion, disc replacement, or decompression surgery. Fusion stabilizes the spine by fusing vertebrae. Disc replacement removes damaged discs and implants artificial ones instead. Decompression creates more space for nerves by eliminating parts of discs or bones.

Managing Degeneration Through Lifestyle

While aging drives disc degeneration, certain habits slow it down. Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and eases stress on the spine. Pay attention to posture and ergonomics when sitting or lifting heavy objects. This will help you avoid straining your back. Quit smoking because it accelerates disc degeneration and increases risks.

Seek prompt medical treatment for any spine injuries to prevent further damage. Perform stretches and exercises that improve spinal flexibility and strengthen the supporting muscles. A proactive approach prevents faster progression and alleviates symptoms like back pain.

It is best to make lifestyle adjustments early before degeneration worsens. Incorporate low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or yoga into the routine. Targeted exercises can also help improve core strength.

Stay hydrated and eat a nutrient-rich diet full of anti-inflammatory foods. Listen to the body and avoid movements that cause discomfort. Take frequent breaks from sedentary positions and manage stress levels through relaxation techniques.

Degenerative disc disease can impact your quality of life. Work with your doctor and try a comprehensive prevention-management approach. Relief from debilitating back pain will help you stay active and enjoy life.

For more on DDD, visit Disc Centers of America at our Kansas City, Missouri, office. Call 816-339-5900 to schedule an appointment today.