Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is not actually a disease in the normal sense. That is a misnomer. DDD is considered a condition that refers to the wear and tear that happens to the discs in the spine. Discs are the rubbery cushions between the vertebrae that act as shock absorbers for the spine. The discs allow us to move, bend, and twist comfortably. Discs may become damaged due to injury, or they may just deteriorate as we age. As discs degenerate, they may become rigid and dry out. They may shrink over time, causing loss of space between the vertebrae. Degenerative disc disease is a common cause of back and neck pain that affects quality of life.
What causes discs to deteriorate?
Osteoarthritis is one of the primary reasons discs deteriorate. The cartilage in the facet joints of the spine begins to wear out, leading to bone-on-bone friction and inflammation. Bone spurs may develop, causing further irritation of the joints.
Injuries are another factor leading to degenerative disc disease. The injury may be due to an accident, a fall, sports activities, or daily activities such as lifting. Inflammation, swelling, pain, and stiffness may result from the injury.
DDD can occur as a natural part of aging. Discs begin to lose their fluid over time and dry out. The discs then flatten out, making them less flexible and more susceptible to damage.
Some lifestyle choices can accelerate disc degeneration, including obesity, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle. Medical conditions such as eating disorders, osteoporosis, degenerative spondylolisthesis, and spinal stenosis can also accelerate disc degeneration.
Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease
The most common areas of the spine for DDD to occur are the neck and low back. Exact symptoms will depend on the location of the affected discs.
- Neck symptoms – Pain and stiffness in the neck; pain that radiates into the shoulders and down the arms; weakness, tingling, or numbness in the arms or hands; difficulty performing fine motor tasks; headaches; pain that is aggravated by certain movements and is alleviated by rest.
- Low back symptoms – Pain and stiffness; reduced flexibility; pain that radiates from the buttocks or hips down the leg (sciatica); weakness, tingling, or numbness in the leg. Pain may worsen with certain activities like standing or bending but may improve with rest or by changing positions. Other symptoms can include muscle spasms, loss of balance, and loss of bladder or bowel control.
Treatments for DDD
- Non-surgical – Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief; muscle relaxers; epidural corticosteroid injections; physical therapy; acupuncture.
- Surgical options – Decompression surgery (laminectomy or discectomy); disc replacement; spinal fusion.
The neurosurgeons at Atlanta Brain and Spine Care are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of degenerative disc disease. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
