What is degenerative disc disease?

Degenerative disc disease is not really a disease but a term used to describe the normal changes in your spinal discs as you age. Degenerative disc disease can take place throughout the spine, but it most often occurs in the discs in the lower back (lumbar region) and the neck (cervical region). These conditions may put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, leading to pain and possibly affecting nerve function.

What causes degenerative disc disease?

With age the amount of fluid in the disc can decrease. Also with age, tiny tears can occur in the outer layer (annulus) of the disc. These changes are more likely to occur in people who smoke cigarettes and those who do heavy physical work (such as repeated heavy lifting). People who are obese are also more likely to have symptoms of degenerative disc disease

What are the symptoms?

Many people have no pain, while others with the same amount of disc damage have severe pain that limits their activities. Where the pain occurs depends on the location of the affected disc. The pain may start after a major injury (such as from a car accident), a minor injury (such as a fall from a low height), or a normal motion (such as bending over to pick something up). It may also start gradually for no known reason and get worse over time.

How is degenerative disc disease diagnosed?

A doctor will do a medical history and physical exam. Depending upon what the doctor finds, image testing may be ordered.

How is degenerative disc disease treated? To relieve pain, put ice or heat (whichever feels better) on the affected area and the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed by your doctor. Further treatment may require physical therapy and exercises for strengthening and stretching the back are often recommended. In some cases surgery may be recommended.

Every situation is different. It is important that you gather reliable information before deciding your method of treatment.

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source: sheboyganpress