Degenerative Disc Disease is not exactly a disease, it is what happens naturally to the spine as we begin to age.
Discs are made of a tough, rubbery exterior and a soft interior and sit between the vertebrae to act as shock absorbers. As we age, the spinal discs begin to degenerate naturally, which can cause herniated discs, bulging discs, spinal stenosis, and osteoarthritis.
Degenerative Disc Symptoms – Like all cases, each patient may have varying symptoms. Some may see no symptoms at all and others may be more apparent, which is important to note.
With Degenerative Disc Disease, pain may be occurring at the location of the affected disc located in the back or in the neck, which can also travel to other areas, such as the buttocks, arms, or even the legs. You may also be experiencing numbness or a tingling sensation in the arms and legs. These pains have a broad range, from little to no pain to severe and debilitating. No matter what level, it is important to contact a chiropractor.
Degenerative Disc Causes – So, what exactly causes this? As mentioned previously, this is something that happens as we age. Tearing of the discs tougher outer layers are quite normal, causing them to begin to lose fluid and become less flexible.
However, other factors do come into play to increase the rate at which this happens. Some include obesity, smoking, repeated physical work, and injury.
Degenerative Disc Treatment – Typically, Degenerative Disc Disease is treated with hot or cold packs in addition to anti-inflammatory medication. When these discs become herniated or bulging, which can happen in cases, some treatments may include spinal stenosis, or osteoarthritis.
Some other forms that may prove beneficial include physical therapy, stretching, and in more severe cases, even surgery. Though this is something that naturally happens, if you’re beginning to feel frequent back or neck pains, it would prove beneficial to contact us at BeFit Chiro for an examination.
