Degenerative Disc Disease Definition

By Abdus Subhan
In Health
on

Degenerative disc disease Definition (DDD) is a condition that occurs when the discs in your spine break down over time. The discs are located between the vertebrae, or bones, in your spine. They act as shock absorbers and help you move, bend, and twist. As you get older, the discs can start to wear down and lose their ability to cushion the spine. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and other problems.

Causes

The exact cause of DDD is unknown, but it is thought to be a combination of factors, including:

  1. Age: DDD is more common in older adults.
  2. Injury: A spinal injury can damage the discs and lead to DDD.
  3. Occupation: People who do jobs that involve a lot of lifting, bending, or twisting are at an increased risk of developing DDD.
  4. Smoking: Smoking can damage the discs and make them more likely to break down.
  5. Obesity: Obesity puts extra stress on the spine and can increase the risk of DDD.

Symptoms

The symptoms of DDD can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the location of the affected disc. Common symptoms include:

  1. Back pain
  2. Neck pain
  3. Pain in the arms or legs
  4. Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
  5. Weakness in the arms or legs
  6. Stiffness in the spine

Diagnosis

Your doctor will likely start by asking you about your symptoms and medical history. They may also perform a physical exam. During the physical exam, your doctor will check your range of motion and look for any areas of tenderness or pain.

Your doctor may also order imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans. These tests can help your doctor see the condition of your spine and the discs. If you need more information to vist www.spineinfo.com.

Treatment

The treatment for DDD will vary depending on the severity of the condition and the symptoms. Some common treatments include:

  1. Rest: Resting the spine can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
  2. Ice and heat: Applying ice or heat to the affected area can help to relieve pain and inflammation.
  3. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to relieve pain.
  4. Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles around the spine and improve flexibility.
  5. Injections: Injections of corticosteroids or other medications can help to relieve pain and inflammation.
  6. Surgery: Surgery is usually only recommended for people who have severe pain that does not respond to other treatments.

Prevention

There is no sure way to prevent DDD, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:

  • Staying at a healthy weight
  • Exercising regularly
  • Avoiding smoking
  • Lifting with your legs, not your back
  • Using good posture

Outlook

The outlook for people with DDD is generally good. Most people are able to manage their symptoms with non-surgical treatments. However, some people may need surgery if their pain is severe or if they have other complications, such as nerve damage.