Degenerative disc disease (DDD) often causes chronic, dull pain in the lower back or neck, which can become sharp or stabbing, especially if a disc is bulging or herniated. This pain may radiate to other areas, such as the shoulders, arms, or legs, and can be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness. Stiffness and reduced mobility are common, making everyday activities challenging. Symptoms can fluctuate, with periods of increased pain and discomfort often triggered by specific activities or prolonged stress on the spine.
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition that affects the spinal discs—the cushions between the vertebrae that help absorb shock and allow for smooth movement of the spine. While it sounds alarming, DDD is quite common and is often a part of the natural aging process. However, it can cause significant discomfort and affect the quality of life for those dealing with it. In this blog, we'll explore the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for degenerative disc disease, when to seek medical attention and some home treatments that may help manage the condition.
Degenerative disc disease is not actually a disease but a condition that develops due to wear and tear on spinal discs over time. The discs lose water content as we age, making them thinner and less flexible, which reduces their ability to cushion the vertebrae. This can result in pain, stiffness, and even nerve compression if the disc weakens or bulges out. The condition is typically seen in the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions of the spine.
Depending on the severity and location of the impacted discs, degenerative disc disease can present a variety of symptoms. Some common signs include:
The pain and discomfort you experience from degenerative disc disease may come and go. It can range from mild to debilitating, and certain activities can exacerbate the symptoms.
Living with DDD means being mindful of your daily activities. Some movements and behaviors can aggravate the condition, so it's important to avoid the following:
Sitting for long periods, especially in poor posture, places excessive pressure on the lower back and can worsen symptoms. Be sure to take breaks, stand up, and stretch frequently.
High-impact activities involving heavy lifting, running, or jumping can increase the strain on your spine and accelerate disc degeneration. Low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, or walking are a better choice.
Smoking reduces blood flow to the discs and can accelerate their degeneration. Quitting smoking can help slow down the progression of DDD.
Slouching or maintaining poor posture while standing, sitting, or lifting can increase stress on your spine. Focus on maintaining proper posture to alleviate unnecessary strain.
Research suggests that there may be a genetic component to degenerative disc disease. People with a family history of DDD or other spinal conditions may be more prone to developing the condition earlier in life or experiencing more severe symptoms. While you can't control your genetics, you can maintain a healthy lifestyle, have regular physical activity, and practicing good posture to help reduce the risk of DDD or manage your symptoms.
While mild cases of degenerative disc disease can often be managed with home treatments and lifestyle changes, there are some situations where medical attention is recommended. You should see a doctor if you experience:
If the pain becomes unbearable or does not improve with rest and home treatments, it's time to consult a healthcare professional.
If you notice pain that radiates down your arms or legs or experience muscle weakness, this could indicate nerve involvement that requires medical evaluation.
If your ability to walk or maintain balance is affected, this could be a sign of nerve compression and should be addressed by a spine specialist.
In rare cases, DDD can cause compression of the spinal cord or nerves, leading to issues with bowel or bladder control. This condition is a medical emergency and you should seek medical care immediately.
At ONJ our spine specialists are highly experienced in diagnosing and treating degenerative disc disease. Our team uses advanced imaging techniques and personalized treatment plans to help you find relief and improve your quality of life.
You don't have to stay in pain. Contact one of our ONJ divisions to schedule an appointment.
Treatment for degenerative disc disease is dependant on the severity of the condition and your individual’s symptoms. Ranging from conservative measures to surgery, there are different options for treatment.
One of the most common treatments for DDD is physical therapy, which helps strengthen the muscles surrounding the spine and improve flexibility. Physical therapists at ONJ can design personalized exercise programs that reduce pain and enhance mobility.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, naproxen, and acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation. In some cases, doctors may prescribe stronger pain medications or muscle relaxants.
Corticosteroid injections or epidural injections can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation around the affected disc and nerves. These are typically used when other treatments fail to provide adequate relief.
If conservative treatments don't relieve symptoms and the condition worsens, surgery may be recommended. Surgical options include spinal fusion (which fuses two or more vertebrae together) or disc replacement surgery. These procedures aim to stabilize the spine and reduce pain. The spine specialists at ONJ are skilled in minimally invasive spinal surgeries, which offer quicker recovery times and less postoperative discomfort.
In addition to medical treatments, there are home remedies and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms of degenerative disc disease:
Living with the pain of degenerative disc disease can be challenging. With the right treatment and care, you can take control of your symptoms and maintain a good quality of life. Our ONJ spine specialists are dedicated to providing expert care, from conservative therapies like physical therapy and injections to advanced surgical interventions. Whether you're dealing with mild discomfort or severe pain, our team is here to help you find the right treatment plan for your needs.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of degenerative disc disease or need a second opinion, don’t hesitate to contact ONJ. With the power to put patients first we’re committed to helping our patients to get back to enjoying an active, pain-free life.
