What is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease is a common condition caused by the gradual breakdown of the cushioning discs between the vertebrae in your spine. These discs act as shock absorbers and when they weaken or wear down, movement can cause pain and inflammation.
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Degenerative disc disease is not always progressive, and many people manage symptoms successfully without surgery. In fact, a large percentage of patients with back pain never require surgery.
How is degenerative disc disease different from arthritis?
Degenerative disc disease is sometimes grouped with degenerative joint disease (arthritis) because both conditions affect the spine and cause pain when joints move. However:
- Disc disease specifically involves problems with the discs between vertebrae.
- Arthritis involves cartilage loss within the joints, leading to stiffness and swelling.
Both conditions can exist together and contribute to chronic back or neck pain.
How common is degenerative disc disease?
The lifetime prevalence of low back pain is nearly 80%, and lumbar disc disorders (including herniations, degenerative disc disease and infections) are the most common causes in adults. Fortunately, about 90% of patients improve within 6 weeks of symptom onset without medical intervention.
What are the risk factors for degenerative disc disease?
While disc degeneration can happen to anyone, certain factors increase your risk:
- Age: The most significant risk factor — discs naturally lose water content and flexibility over time.
- Higher body mass index (BMI): Extra weight puts more stress on spinal discs.
- Genetics: Family history of back problems increases risk.
- Smoking: Reduces blood supply to the discs and accelerates degeneration.
What are the symptoms of degenerative disc disease?
The most common symptom is low back pain described as aching, sore or stabbing. Other symptoms may include:
- Pain in the buttocks, groin, genitals or legs
- Pain that worsens with sitting, twisting, lifting, coughing or sneezing
- Relief with position changes or standing
- Stiffness or reduced flexibility in the spine
In more serious cases, symptoms may also include:
- Numbness or weakness in the legs
- Difficulty walking or balancing
- Bowel or bladder problems (which may indicate cauda equina syndrome, a medical emergency)
How is degenerative disc disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging. It’s also possible doctors will use a blood test to help rule out infections or inflammatory conditions.
Because lumbar disc disorders are so common, test results are always considered alongside physical findings to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
What are the treatment options for degenerative disc disease?
Most patients begin with conservative treatment, which often leads to significant improvement:
- Medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and pain relievers
- Short-term rest to reduce inflammation (avoiding prolonged inactivity)
- Customized physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises to strengthen muscles and improve biomechanics
If symptoms persist, additional options include epidural steroid injections. Sometimes surgery, such as spinal fusion, is considered in severe cases or when complications like neurological issues occur.
Because chronic pain can affect mental health, addressing depression and encouraging exercise are also key components of care.
How can degenerative disc disease be managed long-term?
Patients and families can improve long-term outcomes by learning proper posture and lifting techniques, injury prevention strategies, and the importance of regular exercise to strengthen supporting muscles.
Treat Degenerative Disc Disease at OrthoNebraska
Are you looking for relief from degenerative disc disease in the Omaha area? At OrthoNebraska, we recognize that no two cases of degenerative disc disease are alike. Your care team will work with you to create a treatment plan designed around your symptoms and goals. With the right plan, many patients find long-term relief and improved function without ever needing surgery.
