Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease is not really a disease but a term used to describe the normal changes in the spine due to age. It happens throughout the whole spine but mostly in the lumbar discs as they have the most pressure on them throughout life.

This is caused by the loss of fluid in the disc over time, which makes it less useful as a shock absorber and narrows the distance between the vertebrae. This also lessens the space nerves have to exit the spinal column. Time, and wear and tear on the disc can also cause cracks or breaks in the annulus (the outer covering of the disc). Often the disc material inside leaks out causing a disc herniation and increases acceleration in degeneration.

As the space between the vertebrae get smaller, the discs get worn, and the stabilizing ligaments become less elastic, the spine becomes less stable. The facets move against each other and can cause pain or the body reacts to this by constructing bony growths called bone spurs (osteophytes). Bone spurs can put pressure on the nerve root and cause pain numbness and tingling in the extremities.

People who smoke and those who do heavy physical labor, such as repeated heavy lifting, are more likely to have accelerated disc degeneration. People who are obese are also more likely to be symptomatic.  Approximately 20% of younger people due to genetics, injuries to the spine or who have done years of weightlifting or extremes sports can be diagnosed with degenerative disc disease.

Exercise, weight loss, and quitting smoking are ways to slow down disc degeneration. Surgical intervention would only be considered after extensive conservative care.

Last modified: December 11, 2020