What is Degenerative Disc Disease?

To understand degenerative disc disease, one must first comprehend the spine's basic anatomy. The human spine, also known as the vertebral column or spinal column, is a complex structure that primarily consists of 33 individual bones stacked one on top of another. These bones are called vertebrae.

Between each vertebra, there are shock-absorbing discs that prevent the bones from rubbing against each other. These discs are like jelly donuts, with a tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus) and a gel-like center (nucleus pulposus). They help the spine to bend, twist, and carry your body's weight.

Degenerative disc disease refers to a condition in which pain is caused from a damaged disc. This degeneration or wear and tear typically occurs in the disc's outer layer. Although it is a common part of aging, it can also result from injury or trauma to the back.

What Causes Degenerative Disc Disease?

Degenerative disc disease is primarily caused by the natural aging process. As we age, our intervertebral discs lose fluid and become less flexible. This loss of fluid makes the discs thinner, bringing the vertebrae closer together. Additionally, small tears or cracks can occur in the outer layer of the disc. The soft, gel-like center can then push through these cracks, leading to a bulging or herniated disc.

Other than aging, certain lifestyle factors can contribute to the development of degenerative disc disease. These factors include smoking, physical inactivity, and obesity. Occupations that require heavy physical work or involve lots of bending and twisting can also increase the risk.

It is important to note that not everyone with disc degeneration will experience pain or other symptoms. Some people may have the condition and not even know it.

Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease

The symptoms of degenerative disc disease can vary greatly from person to person. Some people may experience no symptoms at all, while others may experience severe and disabling pain.

The most common symptom is a low-level chronic pain with intermittent episodes of more severe pain. The pain often gets worse with activities such as bending, lifting, or twisting. Sitting may relieve the pain, while walking and standing may make it worse.

Other symptoms can include numbness and tingling in the limbs, weakness in the leg muscles, or pain that radiates down the leg. The exact symptoms will depend on where the degenerated disc is located in the spine.

How is Degenerative Disc Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosing degenerative disc disease typically involves a physical examination, a review of your medical history, and imaging tests. During the physical exam, your doctor will check for areas of tenderness, range of motion, any loss of muscle strength or sensation, and signs of nerve damage.

Imaging tests such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT) scans can provide a detailed view of the spine and help identify any disc abnormalities. However, because disc degeneration is a normal part of aging, these tests alone cannot confirm a diagnosis. They are used in conjunction with your symptoms and physical exam results to make a diagnosis.

Your doctor may also perform a discogram, a procedure in which a dye is injected into the disc to make it more visible on X-rays. This can help confirm the source of the pain.

Treatment Options for Degenerative Disc Disease

Treatment for degenerative disc disease focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the disease and pain. This usually involves a combination of self-care measures, physical therapy, epidural steroid injection (ESI), medications, and in some cases, surgery.

Self-care measures include maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and regular physical activity. Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can help manage mild to moderate pain.

Physical therapy can help improve your strength and flexibility, which can alleviate some of the pain associated with degenerative disc disease.

For severe pain, your doctor may provide steroid injections. Epidural steroid injection (ESI) help reduce inflammation and can be effective for pain management.

If conservative treatments are ineffective, your doctor may prescribe stronger medication or even recommend surgery to remove the damaged disc or to stabilize the spine.

When to Seek Medical Help

If you are experiencing persistent back or neck pain that interferes with your daily activities, it may be time to seek medical help. Other signs that you should seek medical attention include pain that radiates down your arms or legs, weakness or numbness in your limbs, and difficulty walking or balancing.

While degenerative disc disease is a normal part of aging, it doesn't mean you have to live with the pain. There are many effective treatments available that can help you manage your symptoms and maintain your quality of life.

Taking Control of Your Health

Living with degenerative disc disease can be challenging. However, with the right knowledge and treatment, you can manage your symptoms and live a healthy, active life. Stay active, maintain a healthy weight, and seek medical help when needed.

By understanding what degenerative disc disease is and how it affects our bodies, we can better manage our symptoms and continue to lead fulfilling lives.

For more information on degenerative disc disease, call Alicja Steiner, MD, APC, in San Diego, CA at (619) 304-1539 to schedule an appointment today.