Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease is a condition which is related to age, explaining the breakdown of an intervertebral disc of the spine. These pillow-like discs are basically responsible for protecting brain, vertebrae and other nerves.
This naturally occurring condition may cause numbness, weakness and pain that radiates down the leg. If left this condition for a longer period of time, the more the chance of severe chronic pain and other spine problems.
Causes of Degenerative Disc Disease
The most probable causes of this condition include-
- Aging
- Inflammation
- Abnormal micro-motion instability
- Injury
- Tumor
Risks related with Degenerative Disc Disease
Some of the risk factors associated with degenerative disc condition include:
- Strenuous physical work
- Obesity
- Tobacco smoking
- An acute or sudden injury
Prevention
However, this is a naturally occurring condition but some prevention might reduce its severity.
- Healthy lifestyle modifications
- Regular exercise
- Good nutrition
- Quit smoking
How is Degenerative Disc Disease diagnosed?
The doctor will ask about your affected section and symptoms to get the proper knowledge of this condition.
- Electromyography
- CT scan or MRI scan
- Discogram or discography
- Myelogram
Symptoms
Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease
Some commonly noticed signs and symptoms of degenerative disc disease include:
- Lower back or upper neck pain
- Leg weakness or pain
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Muscle spams
- Stiffness or reduced sensation of touch
Treatment
How is Degenerative Disc Disease treated?
Medications and certain surgeries can lessen the symptoms of this condition. However, this is a natural occurring condition but preventive measures can help in controlling the symptoms.
- Physical therapy and low impact exercise
- Chiropractic Care
- Anti-inflammatory Medications
- TENS units
- Surgery
