What is Degenerative Disc Disease?


Degenerative disc disease is misnomer, because it’s not really a disease. It is a term that refers to the normal changes in the spine as we age. In particular, it refers to the deterioration of our spinal discs, which are the soft, cushiony discs between our bony vertebrae.

Spinal discs are like shock absorbers, in that they separate the bones and allow the spine to bend, twist, and flex. Degenerative disc disease usually occurs in the lumbar region of the spine (lower back) and the cervical region (neck). It results in:

      1) The breakdown of cartilage, also known as osteoarthritis                        
      2) The bulging of discs, also known as disc herniation, and                        
      3) The narrowing of the spinal canal, also known as spinal stenosis 

These conditions can lead to pain and nerve problems, due to pressure on the
nerves and spinal cord.

The cause of degenerative disc disease is aging. Aging leads to a loss of fluid in the discs, making them more brittle and less flexible. They also become thinner, which brings the vertebrae closer together. In addition, small cracks or tears in the discs may cause leakage of the jellylike material inside. This causes bulging, breaking, or fragmenting of the discs.

Degenerative disc disease does not affect everyone the same way and at the same rate. It is usually worse among smokers and those who do heavy physical labor that taxes the spine. People who are overweight and obese tend to have worse symptoms as well. A sudden injury can also initiate the process of deterioration.

When the discs between the vertebrae get thinner, there is less cushion for the spine and it loses stability. In response, the body generates bone spurs, also known as osteophytes, which can cause pain due to pressure on the spinal nerves. The pain may be felt in the back or the neck, depending on the person and the location of the degeneration. Discs that are affected in the neck region can lead to pain in the arms or neck, while affected discs in the lumbar or lower region can lead to leg, back, or buttock pain.

Our Tampa chiropractors can diagnose degenerative disc disease through the use of a physical examination and a medical history. He or she will look for areas of tenderness, range of motion, pain, numbness, reflexes, and any additional conditions such as fractures or infections.

Sheldon Road Chiropractic may use Digital X-ray imaging for detecting advanced degenerative disc disease.

Treatment usually includes ice or heat, massage, rest and anti-inflammatory medication as needed. Stretches and physical therapy modalities are often recommended. In many cases Spinal Decompression with the DRX9000 is recommended to heal disc related conditions such as degenerative disc disease (as well as bulging disc, herniated disc, sciatica, spinal stenosis). In very severe cases, surgery may be recommended.  Consul   C 

Consult with our Chiropractors at Sheldon Road Chiropractic and Massage Therapy in Tampa to determine how to treat your specific situation with the best chiropractic care.

 

Sheldon Road Chiropractic & Massage Therapy
10930 Sheldon Road
Tampa, FL 33626
813.884.1457

www.sheldonroadchiropractic.com

  

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