Degenerative Disc Disease

Despite its name, degenerative disc disease is not really a “disease.” It’s a term used to describe the natural aging and wearing out of the discs in your spine. These discs are made up of:

• A soft, jelly-like center that absorbs shocks.
• A tough outer layer that protects the inner part and gives the disc its shape.

As you age, these discs lose water and become less flexible. This can make them shrink and lose their ability to cushion your spine properly. When this happens, the bones in your spine may rub against each other, and the nearby nerves may get irritated. DDD most often occurs in the neck (cervical spine) or lower back (lumbar spine), but it can happen anywhere in the spine.

The symptoms of can vary. Some people don’t have any symptoms, while others may experience:

1. Back or Neck Pain: This is the most common symptom. The pain may be mild or severe and can get worse when you move, bend, or twist.
2. Pain That Travels: If the worn-out disc irritates a nerve, the pain can spread to other areas. For example, lower back problems might cause pain down your leg (sciatica), and neck problems might cause pain in your shoulder or arm.
3. Stiffness or Limited Movement: Damaged discs can make your spine feel less flexible, making it hard to move or do everyday tasks.
4. Weakness, Numbness, or Tingling: If the disc presses on a nerve, you might feel these sensations in your arms, hands, legs, or feet.
5. Flare-Ups: Some people have periods of intense pain that last for days or weeks, followed by times when the pain is less noticeable.

The main cause is the natural aging process. As you get older, your spinal discs lose water and start to wear out. Other factors that can speed up this process include:

1. Daily Wear and Tear: Over time, activities like bending, lifting, and sitting for long periods can put stress on your spine.
2. Injuries: Falls or repetitive strain on your back can damage the discs.
3. Genetics: If your family members have disc problems, you may be more likely to develop them.
4. Being Overweight: Extra weight puts more pressure on your spine, especially in the lower back.
5. Smoking: Smoking reduces blood flow to the discs, making it harder for them to stay healthy.
6. Poor Posture: Sitting or standing in awkward positions for long periods can put extra strain on your spine.

Getting the right diagnosis is an important first step in treating degenerative disc disease. Dr. Lauren Boden uses a detailed process to understand what’s causing your symptoms:

Medical History

She’ll ask about your symptoms, lifestyle, and any past injuries. It’s important to describe your pain, how long it lasts, and what makes it better or worse.

Physical Exam

Dr. Boden will check your back or neck for areas that are tender, test how well you can move, and see if there are any signs of nerve issues, like muscle weakness or changes in reflexes.

Imaging Tests

These tests show the condition of your spine and discs:

• X-rays: These pictures can show the spacing between your bones and if any discs have shrunk.
• MRI Scans: These detailed images show the discs, nerves, and soft tissues to help identify problems like bulging discs or pinched nerves.
• CT scans: Sometimes used to get a closer look at the bones in your spine.

Special Tests

In some cases, Dr. Boden might use a test called a discogram, where contrast dye is injected into the disc to see if it’s causing pain.