Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease refers to age-related wear of the spinal discs that can cause neck or back pain. The discs sit between the vertebrae and work with facet joints, ligaments, and surrounding muscles to cushion movement. When discs dry out or tear, nearby joints and nerves can become irritated, leading to pain and stiffness.
What Are the Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease?
- Localized neck or back pain
- Pain centered in the neck or low back that may worsen with sitting, bending, lifting, or twisting and improve with gentle walking or lying down.
- Radiating pain
- Pain can travel into the arm or leg if a nearby nerve is irritated, sometimes described as sciatica in the leg or radicular pain in the arm.
- Stiffness and reduced flexibility
- Difficulty turning the head, bending forward, or straightening up after sitting for a long time.
- Activity-related flare-ups
- Symptoms often come and go in episodes that flare with activity and settle with rest and simple self-care.
- Muscle spasms or weakness
- Tightness or cramping around the spine, and in some cases weakness in the arm or leg if a nerve is affected.
- Numbness or tingling
- Pins and needles in the shoulder, arm, hand, buttock, leg, or foot that follow a nerve path.
What Causes Degenerative Disc Disease?
- Age-related disc changes: Discs naturally lose water content and height over time, which can reduce cushioning and increase mechanical stress.
- Repetitive strain: Frequent bending, lifting, twisting, or vibration can speed up disc wear.
- Prior injury: A past back or neck injury can alter mechanics and contribute to earlier disc breakdown.
- Genetics and anatomy: Inherited traits and spinal alignment may influence how quickly discs degenerate.
- Smoking or nicotine exposure: Reduced blood flow and nutrition to the disc can impair healing.
- Excess body weight and deconditioning: Added load and weak core support increase stress on the spine.
- Occupational and sports demands: Jobs or activities that require heavy labor or prolonged sitting can contribute.
How Can You Help Prevent Degenerative Disc Disease?
- Spine-smart posture: Keep a neutral spine when sitting and standing, and set up your workspace to support good alignment.
- Regular exercise: Combine aerobic activity with core, hip, and back strengthening and gentle flexibility work.
- Lift carefully: Use your legs, hold loads close to your body, and avoid twisting while carrying weight.
- Healthy weight: Maintain a weight that reduces stress on discs and joints.
- Avoid tobacco: Do not smoke or vape to support disc nutrition and healing.
- Movement breaks: Change positions, stand, and stretch throughout the day, especially if you sit or drive for long periods.
- Sleep support: Choose a supportive mattress and pillow that keep your neck and back aligned.
When to Seek Orthopaedic Care for Degenerative Disc Disease
- Severe or worsening pain: Pain that limits daily activities or sleep and does not improve with rest, over-the-counter medication, or gentle activity.
- New weakness in an arm or leg: Trouble lifting the foot, gripping, or raising the arm may signal nerve involvement.
- Numbness in the saddle area or bowel or bladder changes: These are urgent symptoms that need immediate medical attention.
- Frequent flare-ups: Episodes that keep returning or last longer than a few weeks.
- Back or neck pain with fever, history of cancer, or unexplained weight loss: Seek prompt evaluation.
An orthopedic surgeon can evaluate degenerative disc disease, order imaging when needed, and guide a full range of treatments, including nonoperative care and surgical options when appropriate. If you need help, the spine specialists at OrthoNJ are ready to assess your symptoms and create a personalized plan.
Find An OrthoNJ Location
Contact one of OrthoNJ's locations spread out through all of New Jersey.
Why Choose an OrthoNJ Doctor for Your Care?
OrthoNJ is different from your typical medical provider. Unlike many in the industry, we prioritize patient care over profits. Our six divisions work collaboratively to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. We believe in the "Power to Put Patients First," and our doctors and divisional partners strive to uphold this commitment in every aspect of our care.
- With over 120 fantastic physicians, all board-certified, board-qualified, or fellowship-trained, OrthoNJ offers top-tier expertise across a wide range of specialties.
- We serve over 250 communities throughout New Jersey, providing treatment and continuing care for various orthopedic needs.
- With more than 30 statewide offices, our reach extends across the entire state. Whether in North Jersey, South Jersey, or anywhere between, OrthoNJ proudly serves you.
This treatment info is for informational purposes only. Treatment and recovery vary person to person, and you should consult with your treating physician and team for details on your treatment and recovery process.
