Degenerative Disc Disease Condition

What is Degenerative Disc Disease?

Disc degeneration in the cervical spine of the neck is one of the most common causes of neck pain. The condition occurs as a result of deterioration in the discs that sit between the vertebrae of your spine. Since those discs act as shock absorbers for the spine, any damage to them can cause weakness, loss of mobility, and pain.

The problem is that these discs can become worn over time, which results in narrowing space between the vertebrae. That in turn can lead to more pressure on the nerve roots within the spine. In some cases, those discs become herniated, and the inner gel of the disc protrudes through the weakened outer shell. Regardless of whether the disc wears over time or herniates, the end result can be the same: nerve compression that causes weakness, numbness, reduced mobility, and painful sensations.

What Causes this Condition?

There are a variety of factors that can contribute to degenerative disc disease that impacts the neck. These causes can include:

• Injuries to the outer ring of the disc that weaken the protective exterior and allow the inner gel-like material to protrude and pressure nearby nerve roots.
• Wear and tear due to aging, as the disc gradually wears down over time. As you age, your discs lose water. That loss of moisture makes the discs more susceptible to cracking and tears, which can lead to scar tissue, herniation, or other complications.

Some studies have suggested that roughly 75 percent of people below the age of 50 have some level of disc degeneration. Meanwhile, more than 90 percent of people older than 50 have similar deterioration of their spinal discs. Aside from age, obesity, genetics, and poor lifestyle habits may put people at increased risk for disc degeneration.

What Are the Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease?

Patients with cervical degenerative disc disease may have any of the following common symptoms:

• Pain in the neck. Often, this pain is low-grade, but can flare up for hours or even days.
• Nerve pain in the shoulders, radiating to the arms and hands.
• Worsening pain when the body is in motion.
• Tingling, weakness, and numbness in the arms, shoulders, hands, and fingers.

While these symptoms may resolve themselves in some instances, prolonger pain or discomfort should not be ignored. A proper diagnosis is vital to ensuring effective treatment and resolution.

How We Can Help

Dr. Tafler can provide the osteopathic care you need to manage your degenerative disc condition. Osteopathic techniques are an effective way to reduce pain, increase physical range of motion, and enjoy a renewed quality of life.