Degenerative Disc Disease

With a name more frightening than may be needed, degenerative disc disease is a very common complaint of the back, with many people unaware that they may have the condition.

The symptoms of this complaint vary widely from person to person, though pain levels tend to be higher in the younger sufferers than older people. This is an unusual occurrence as degenerative disc disease is a natural part of the ageing process.

What Is It?

Degenerative disc disease affects the intervertebral discs that sit between the individual spinal vertebrae. They exist to absorb impact (like a shock absorber) and to prevent bone rubbing on bone. Each disc has a tough outer shell which contains a soft, often described as jelly-like substance, which is primarily made up of water. As the person gets older, the water content decreases and discs can become dehydrated making them more susceptible to injury.

The outer layer of the disc can become thinner through wear and tear, or in some circumstances can even tear. These tears can cause the inner substance to leak out into the surrounding structures which may cause pressure to be put on the nerves, alternatively, the nerves may begin to grow in and around the tear of the shell and invade the inner disc space. Either can cause the nerves to become irritated and inflamed. Pain can be chronic with periods of heightened levels, and can usually be helped by keeping mobile so as to relieve pressure from the nerves. Long periods of sitting and standing can aggravate the nerves and increase pain. Lying down can help because the position relieves pressure from the spine.

In the event of nerve interference, pain can sometimes be felt down the legs, with numbness or tingling experiences.Giving up smoking is essential if suffering pain from degenerative disc disease. Oxygen levels and blood supply to the area can be compromised with the incidence of smoking. As discs are already at risk of dehydration, reducing the oxygen and nutrients supplied to this area by smoking will exacerbate symptoms further.

Treatments

Many people who live with this condition require no medical intervention. Pain can usually be managed independently by using anti-inflammatory medications. Occasionally your GP may prescribe a stronger painkiller for short term use, or an anti-depressant that can also have analgesic qualities and can aid sleep.

Diagnosis is made by taking a full history, physical examination and perhaps with an MRI scan.A programme of stretching exercises can help to prevent symptoms worsening with low-impact activities such as walking or swimming being encouraged to help stay supple and to strengthen abdominal muscles, which can act as a support to the spinal column.

Your GP may recommend referral to a chiropractor or trying acupuncture to help with pain relief. Surgery is a very rare solution for this problem, and procedures can include partial or total disc removal. If a disc is totally removed, the orthopaedic specialist may recommend also having a spinal fusion, using metal rods, screws and cages, or by inserting a prosthetic disc implant. This procedure is fairly new and research into your surgeon’s capabilities may be wise.

Prevention

A tobacco free lifestyle is a great way of reducing the symptoms of degenerative disc disease, should the condition occur. A regular exercise programme and maintenance of a good level of fitness and strength will also help avoid the disc degenerating.