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Most people will suffer from an episode of minor lower Back pain at some point in their lives, but, for some patients, lower back pain is an indication of a more serious ongoing problem. Degenerative disc disease is a condition in which the discs that sit between the vertebrae of the lower spine begin to wear down, creating instability in the lower back or neck. The body will try to compensate for the loss of the disc by creating bone spurs that can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves which leads to pain and numbness. This is the most common root of back pain.
Causes and DiagnosisWhile degenerative disc disease is common as one grows older, there are also conditions and injuries that can cause degeneration of the discs to occur more quickly. Osteoarthritis, herniation of discs in the back and spinal injury are all contributing factors to the disease. Obesity and cigarette usage can also effect the health of the discs. The disease is usually diagnosed based on the patient's history and a medical exam. A doctor will look for limitations in the patient's range of motion and examine if damage has occurred in nerve function. After any other condition that might be causing pain, such as tumors or fractures, are ruled out, the doctor will usually diagnose the patient with degenerative disc disease and begin treatment.
Treatment and OutcomesManaging pain is the most common method of treating degenerative disc disease. For some, pain can be alleviated with over-the-counter medication or physical therapy. When mobility is limited and pain is effecting the patient's quality of life, surgery to remove the damaged disc can be performed. Spinal fusion is also a typical procedure used to repair damage from degenerative disc disease. For the most severe cases, surgery usually results in a permanent decrease in pain and increase in mobility. While back pain can be severe, degenerative disc disease is a common ailment for which a number of treatment options are available to help patients remain comfortable and active.
What else can I help you with?
What is the medical term meaning Degenerative condition of the vertebrae?
spondylosis spondyl/o = vertebrae/vertebra osis= abnormal condition
Can degenerative disc disease affect other parts of the spine?
Yes, degenerative disc disease can affect other parts of the spine, not just the intervertebral discs. It can lead to other spinal conditions such as facet joint arthritis, spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis due to changes in spinal alignment and mechanics.
What if you have degenerative joint disorder in the vertebrae?
Degenerative joint disorder in the vertebrae, also known as degenerative disc disease, can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the spine. Treatment often focuses on managing symptoms through pain relief medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. In severe cases, surgery may be considered to address the issue.
What is Dessication of the disc?
Desiccation of the disc refers to the drying out and degeneration of the intervertebral discs in the spine. This can lead to a decrease in disc height, loss of elasticity, and can be a contributing factor to conditions such as disc herniation or degenerative disc disease. Symptoms can include back pain, stiffness, and decreased flexibility.
What is endplate lipping?
Endplate lipping refers to the formation of bony spurs or projections at the edges of the vertebral endplates in the spine. This can be seen on imaging studies like X-rays and may indicate degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs and joints of the spine. It is commonly associated with conditions like osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease.
Does Degenerative Disc Disease cause cancer?
No.
Is an annular tear considered degenerative disc disease?
An annular tear of the disc is, generally speaking, traumatic. However, over time, this can lead to degenerative disease of the affected disc or discs.
Can severe degenerative disc disease cause kidney and bowel problems?
no
What is marked degenerative arthritis and disc disease mean?
Degenerative disk disease and arthritis are different conditions conditions.The cause of degenerative disk disease at this point is not understood, however having arthritis can contribute to its development.
How is degenerative disc disease found?
Degenerative disc disease is a condition referring to the changes that take place in the spinal discs during the ageing process. It is usually diagnosed through physical examinations and imaging.
What is a Bryan disc?
The Bryan disc is a flexible disc or ring of titanium and Teflon that is used to replace the intervertebral disc in patients with degenerative disc disease.
How is Degenerative Disc Disease graded?
"C-Spine shows degenerative changes in upper mid area C2-C3"
what can cause numbness in lefthand ring finger and pinky finger also suffer from degenerative disc disease.?
what can cause numbness in left hand ring finger and pinky finger also suffer from degenerative disc disease
What does DJD mean in a thoracic radiology report?
DJD in a thoracic radiology report stands for degenerative joint disease or degenerative disc disease, which refers to wear and tear on the joints or discs in the spine. This can manifest as changes such as osteoarthritis or disc degeneration.
Approximately what percentage of the US population suffer from degenerative disc disease?
Answer... Not trying to be a "smart-patutee", 100% of people have degenerative disc disease if they live long enough... [usually into the late 30's, etc...]... If you have a specific reason for this question, be add more information...
What is the medical term meaning Degenerative condition of the vertebrae?
spondylosis spondyl/o = vertebrae/vertebra osis= abnormal condition
What is the best source of information about degenerative disc disease?
Degenerative disc disease is a spinal condition caused by the breakdown of your intervertebral discs. As you age, your spine begins to show signs of wear and tear as your discs dry out and shrink. The best way to help prevent the onset is exercise.
