Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a common condition in which the spinal discs gradually wear down over time.
These discs act like cushions between the bones (vertebrae) in your spine, providing both flexibility and shock absorption.

As discs lose hydration and elasticity with age or stress, they may shrink, tear, or collapse, which can cause pain, stiffness, and nerve irritation.
Despite its name, DDD is not technically a “disease,” but rather a natural aging process that can be worsened by lifestyle factors or injuries.

DDD typically develops gradually, often as part of the normal aging process, but certain factors can speed it up:

• Natural aging: discs lose water content and become less flexible over time.
• Repetitive strain: heavy lifting, twisting, or physically demanding work.
• Poor posture or ergonomics: long-term stress on the spine, such as from computer or phone use.
• Trauma or injury: sudden injuries like car accidents or falls can damage discs.
• Genetics: some people are born with a higher tendency for early disc degeneration.
• Lifestyle factors: smoking, obesity, or lack of exercise can reduce disc health and blood flow.

Symptoms depend on which discs are affected — in the neck (cervical spine) or lower back (lumbar spine) — and how much nerve involvement there is.

• Localized pain in the neck or lower back that may be constant or come and go.
• Radiating pain into the arms, hands, legs, or feet if a nerve is compressed.
• Stiffness and reduced flexibility, especially after sitting or standing for long periods.
• Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs when nerves are irritated.
• Muscle weakness that can affect grip, walking, or lifting ability.
• Pain that worsens with movement, bending, or lifting, and improves with rest.

In severe cases, degenerative discs can lead to spinal stenosis  which may require more advanced treatment.

Dr. Fried takes a careful, step-by-step approach to diagnosing degenerative disc disease and related conditions:

• Medical history: reviewing symptoms, lifestyle factors, and previous injuries.
• Physical examination: checking posture, mobility, strength, reflexes, and nerve function.
• Imaging studies:
  • X-rays: show disc height loss, bone spurs, or alignment changes.
  • MRI: provides a detailed look at disc health and nerve involvement.
  • CT scans: occasionally used for complex cases or surgical planning.
     

The goal of treatment is to reduce pain, improve function, and prevent further degeneration.
Dr. Fried begins with non-surgical approaches and only considers surgery if symptoms persist or worsen.