Degenerative disc disease is often caused by the normal wear and tear that results as the spine ages. However, there are also certain lifestyle factors that can have a negative impact on spinal discs.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease is a condition that is commonly misunderstood. A degenerated disc is not actually a disease—it is part of the normal aging of the spine. When a spinal disc degenerates, it loses its ability to function efficiently as part of the spinal joint, which in turn can lead to back pain and possibly pain that radiates through the extremities.
Pain associated with degenerative disc disease is generally thought to stem from two different factors: inflammation and abnormal micromotion instability.
In addition to having pain or stiffness, many patients with cervical disc degeneration have numbness, tingling, or weakness in the neck, arms, or shoulders.
Neck pain and neurological symptoms are common markers of cervical degenerative disc disease. However, a medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests are often needed to make an accurate diagnosis
Often suggested as treatment options for cervical disc disease are conservative care, exercise, physical therapy, medications, and in severe cases, surgery (decompression, fusion, or disc replacement).
Several symptoms and risk factors are fairly common and consistent for patients suffering lower back pain or neck pain due to degenerative disc disease.
Staying active, modifying daily activities that stress the back, and improving nutrition are some conservative ways to manage pain from degenerative disc disease.
If patients are making concessions in their everyday activities due to back pain from a degenerated disc, then it is reasonable to consider back surgery.
There are a large array of factors to consider when deciding whether or not to have surgery for degenerative disc disease. Knowing those factors will help you make the right decision.
