Degenerative disc disease refers to changes in spinal discs associated with natural aging. As the spine ages, the discs tend to compress, and the spinal bones come closer together. This can put increased pressure on the bones and joints of the spine. Sometimes, as the discs degenerate, they can also bulge into the spinal canal, causing narrowing around the surrounding nerves and spinal cord, referred to as spinal stenosis.
Symptoms of degenerative disc disease include localized pain in the affected area of the spine, such as the neck or lower back. Pain may also radiate into the arms or legs if the degenerating disc presses on nearby nerves or causes inflammation around these nerves. As discs degenerate, they may limit spinal movement and affect overall spinal stability and flexibility.
Treatment options vary based on the severity of symptoms and may include physical therapy, activity modification, epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections or other pain management procedures. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
