The Complications of Degenerative Disc Disease

Back and neck pain are incredibly common and affect millions of Americans. One of the leading causes of chronic spinal pain is degenerative disc disease, a condition that can gradually wear down the cushioning between the vertebrae in your spine.

At Spinal Diagnostics, our team is dedicated to helping patients understand the root cause of their pain and developing customized treatment plans. Here’s what you should know about degenerative disc disease and the potential complications it can cause if left untreated.

What is degenerative disc disease?

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is not actually a disease but a term used to describe changes in your spinal discs as you age. Over time, the discs between your vertebrae lose hydration and elasticity, making them less effective at absorbing shock and providing flexibility.

This can lead to increased friction between the bones in your spine, resulting in pain, stiffness, and a reduced range of motion.

Possible complications of DDD

If DDD progresses, it can lead to a variety of complications that may affect your quality of life. These include:

Herniated discs: Weakened discs may rupture or bulge out of place, pressing on nearby nerves and causing pain, numbness, or weakness.
Spinal stenosis: The narrowing of the spinal canal can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, resulting in pain and difficulty walking.
Osteoarthritis: Loss of disc space can increase stress on joints in the spine, potentially leading to arthritis and bone spurs.
Chronic pain: Ongoing inflammation and nerve compression may lead to persistent or worsening pain in the back, neck, arms, or legs.

Many people with DDD also experience muscle spasms, reduced mobility, and sleep disturbances due to pain.

Treatment options

Although DDD is a natural part of aging, you don’t have to live with pain. At Spinal Diagnostics, we offer a variety of noninvasive and minimally invasive treatment options to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. These include:

Physical therapy and exercise programs
Medication for pain and inflammation
Spinal injections
Non-opioid medications
Pain management procedures

In severe cases, surgery may be considered, but our goal is always to explore conservative treatments first.

If you’re experiencing ongoing back or neck pain and want to understand your options, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you get back to doing the things you love — pain-free.

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