Spine Conditions
Degenerative Disc Disease
The degeneration (breakdown) of the spine is typically seen in patients older than 60 years of age. By the age of 50, approximately 95% of people have some evidence of disc degeneration on an X-ray. However, not all disc degeneration results in pain or lack of mobility.
Cause
Studies have suggested that genes may contribute to the risk of developing disc degeneration. Therefore, if people in your family are prone to disc degeneration, you may have a higher chance of having similar problems. Wear and tear on the spine as you live your life may also cause the breakdown of your disc. As the disc deteriorates, the boney elements of the spine may also begin to break down.
Symptoms
Depending, in part, on the extent of the degeneration, Degenerative Disc Disease patients experience varied levels of pain. Many people have no pain or only slight pain. Degenerated joints and discs can result in abnormal vertebral motion and increased inflammation. The most common areas affected are at the C5 and C6 level in the neck and at the L4 and L5 level in the lumbar spine.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will perform a physical examination and review images taken of your spine.
Treatment
Conservative treatment remains the standard of care for degenerative disc disease. There are a number of conservative treatment options your physician would normally consider before surgery. The most common non-surgical options are physical therapy, modification of activity, anti-inflammatory medications, short-term bed rest, physical therapy, exercise, heat, electrical stimulation therapy, and life-style changes. The decision to treat the disease surgically is typically based on the extent of nerve damage, instability, severity of pain, and the patient's other conditions. Speak with your doctor to learn more about treatment options most suitable for you.
