Degenerative disc disease refers to symptoms of back or neck pain caused by wear-and-tear on a spinal disc. Degenerative disc disease typically consists of a low-level chronic pain with intermittent episodes of more severe pain. Painful disc degeneration is common in the neck (cervical spine) and lower back (lumbar spine). These areas of the spine undergo the most motion and stress and are most susceptible to disc degeneration. In some cases, degenerative disc disease also causes weakness, numbness, and hot, shooting pains in the arms or legs (radicular pain).
Degenerative disc disease is an age-related condition that happens when one or more of the discs between the vertebrae of the spinal column deteriorates or breaks down, leading to pain. Despite its name, degenerative disc disease is not a disease, but a natural occurrence that comes with aging.
Although the spine is in a near-constant state of degeneration after the age of 20s, most people don’t start to experience symptoms of DDD until they reach their 60s or 70s, Symptoms usually get worse with age. The discomfort can range from mild to severe and debilitating. It can lead to osteoarthritis, with pain and stiffness in the back. The most common early symptom is usually pain and weakness in the back that radiates to another area. Symptoms vary widely and may include:
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) develops as a result of the effects of aging on your spine and specifically on your intervertebral discs. It can also be associated with an injury to the back, but even in that scenario, your discs have usually become weak because, with age, discs lose water content, may become thinner; both of which can alter the strength and shape of one or more discs. Common causes include:
The doctor will ask about symptoms, when and where the pain occurs, whether there is tingling or numbness, and which situations cause the most pain. They will also ask about any falls, injuries, or accidents. A physical examination may assess for:
The doctor may order the following diagnostic tests:
Physical therapy is often suggested or prescribed to help maintain healthy mobility in the spine.