An Overview of Degenerative Disc Disease?

Answer 1

The term "degenerative disc disease" refers to the changes that the discs in the spine go through as a normal process of aging. The spinal discs are soft and compressible and their purpose is to separate the vertebrae that make up the spine. Since they are compressible they act like a shock absorber works by letting the spine bend, twist, and flex. The entire spine is susceptible to degenerative disc disease, but it most commonly affects the cervical region of the neck or the lower back (lumbar) area.

Any of these changes in the spine can result in conditions like: osteoarthritis in which joint protecting cartilage breaks down; herniated discs that is the breakage or bulging of one of the discs; or spinal stenosis where the open space in the spine gets narrower.

Causes

The changes connected to aging that can happen to the discs in the spine include:

• Reduction of the fluid in the discs, causing them to be less flexible and thinner. It can also cause the distance between the vertebrae to get smaller.
• Small cracks or rips in a disc's outer layer. This allows the soft material that is the disc to come out the cracks, resulting in a bulge or break.

Some people are more at risk for this degeneration than others. Smokers, those who work that involves heavy lifting, and people who are obese are more prone to the problems.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary with each case of degenerative disc disease. Some people may have no symptoms while others have varying levels of pain in the lower back or neck. If the pain is bad enough, it can limit physical activity. If a disc in the neck is involved, the pain may be in the arm or neck. A degenerated disc in the lower back can result in pain back, buttocks, or leg and may be worse with certain movements.

Treatment

Ice or heat applied to the affected area and taking anti-inflammatory drugs or acetaminophen can help relieve the pain. If these don't work, a doctor may prescribe stronger medication. Treatments beyond this may be recommended, especially if other conditions like osteoarthritis or a herniated disc have resulted. Exercises that target the back are usually recommended. If none of this has helped, surgery may be advised. Surgery normally involves removal of the damaged disc.