Medical Review: Dr. Gerald Mastaw, MD – Board-Certified PhysicianLast Updated: October 2025 What Is Degenerative Disc Disease? Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) occurs when the spinal discs, the soft, cushion-like pads between vertebrae, begin to lose hydration, elasticity, and height.As discs deteriorate, they absorb less shock, which can lead to pain, stiffness, and nerve irritation if…
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is one of the most common causes of chronic low back pain. It happens when the spinal discs, which act like cushions between the bones of the spine, begin to wear down over time. This process is often part of normal aging, but it can also be influenced by genetics, lifestyle,…
Chronic back pain is one of the most common health complaints worldwide, especially among older adults. As the population continues to age, spinal conditions such as intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) are becoming increasingly common. These conditions not only cause physical discomfort but also impact mental well-being, reduce mobility, and lead to increased healthcare costs. Researchers…
Back pain is the most common cause of disability worldwide, impacting people of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds. In North America, it is one of the top reasons people miss work and visit doctors. Studies show that at least 80% of Americans will experience low back pain at some point in their lives, making it…
In recent years, the field of regenerative medicine has made remarkable strides, with stem cell therapy emerging as a revolutionary approach to treating various conditions. Among the most promising applications of stem cell therapy is its use in orthopedic injuries, which include conditions such as sports injuries, osteoarthritis, and degenerative disc disease. This innovative treatment…
What is Degenerative Disc Disease? Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition that refers to the gradual deterioration of the discs between the vertebrae of the spine. The discs are rubbery cushions that act as shock absorbers and provide flexibility to the spine. With age and wear and tear, these discs can degenerate, leading to…
Currently, it's estimated that over 40% of adults over the age of 40 have at least one degenerative disc in their vertebrae; by age 80, the percentage afflicted with this condition is estimated to be over 80%. Characterized by erosion of the rubber-like discs between each vertebra of the spine, degenerative disc degeneration often results…
According to the Medical Advisory Secretariat, approximately 40% of people over 40 have degenerative disc disease. It is not easy to know that you have disc disease because its development is gradual and can present with related problems, like herniated discs and spinal stenosis. To diagnose Degenerative Disc Disease, your doctor can perform a number…
Back pain is one of the most frequent physical complaints among adults. It’s also the leading cause of missed work in the U.S. Most back pain goes away on its own within a week or two, but if you have persistent severe back pain or pain that is accompanied by other symptoms, it may be…
Degenerative disc disease is one of the most common and misunderstood causes of lower back pain and neck pain. Instead of referring to a specific ailment, degenerative disc disease is a catch-all term covering many conditions that arise due to general wear and tear on a spinal disc. Here we will talk about Degenerative Disc Disease:…
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