Things to Avoid with Degenerative Disc Disease

What is Degenerative Disc Disease?

The primary cause of degenerative disc disease is the natural aging process. As we age, the discs lose their water content and become less flexible, resulting in decreased disc height and integrity. This degeneration can also be influenced by factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and repetitive stress on the spine.

The common symptoms of degenerative disc disease include back pain, neck pain, and radiating pain or numbness that can extend into the arms or legs. The pain may worsen with activities like bending, twisting, or sitting for prolonged periods. In some cases, the degenerated disc may impinge on nearby nerves, causing additional symptoms such as weakness or tingling sensations in the affected areas.

While degenerative disc disease is a natural part of the aging process, not everyone with disc degeneration experiences symptoms. The severity of symptoms can vary widely among individuals. Diagnosis of degenerative disc disease typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans to assess the condition of the discs and rule out other possible causes of pain.

Who Do You See if You Think You Have Degenerative Disc Disease?

If you suspect that you have degenerative disc disease (DDD), it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in spine conditions. Here are some healthcare providers you can consider seeing for an evaluation and diagnosis:

Neurologist: Neurologists are medical doctors who specialize in conditions related to the nervous system, including spine-related issues. They can evaluate your symptoms, perform neurological examinations, and order imaging tests to help diagnose degenerative disc disease. They can also provide recommendations for treatment and management.

Physical Therapist: Physical therapists can play a crucial role in managing degenerative disc disease. They can assess your condition, develop an exercise program to strengthen the muscles supporting your spine, and provide guidance on proper body mechanics and posture.

Things to Avoid with Degenerative Disc Disease 

When living with degenerative disc disease, it is important to be mindful of certain activities and habits that can worsen your symptoms or potentially harm your spine. 

Firstly, heavy lifting should be avoided as it places excessive strain on your discs. If lifting is necessary, remember to use proper techniques and ask for assistance when needed. 

Prolonged sitting or standing should also be minimized, as both positions can place stress on your discs. Instead, try to alternate between sitting and standing and incorporate short breaks or walks throughout the day. 

High-impact activities such as running, jumping, or contact sports should be avoided, as they can further deteriorate your discs. Opt for low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling, which are gentler on your spine. Repetitive activities such as bending, twisting, or lifting should be minimized or balanced with frequent breaks to reduce strain on your discs. A sedentary lifestyle weakens the supporting muscles of your spine, so engage in regular physical activity and exercises that promote spinal health.

Maintaining good posture is crucial; avoid slouching or hunching over, especially during extended periods of sitting or standing. Use ergonomic chairs or supportive cushions to help maintain proper alignment. 

Smoking is detrimental to your spinal health, so it is advisable to quit smoking or avoid exposure to secondhand smoke. 

Excess body weight adds strain to your spine and accelerates disc degeneration, so maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise is essential. 

Emotional stress and poor sleep can increase muscle tension and exacerbate pain associated with degenerative disc disease, so prioritize stress management techniques and ensure you get enough restful sleep. 

It is always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific condition.

What are Treatment Options for Degenerative Disc Disease?

Traditional treatment options for degenerative disc disease aim to manage pain, improve function, and prevent further deterioration. Conservative measures include physical therapy, pain medications, hot or cold therapy, and lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a healthy weight and adopting proper body mechanics. In more severe cases, when conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical interventions such as spinal fusion or artificial disc replacement may be considered.

It’s important to note that degenerative disc disease is a chronic condition, and while traditional treatment can help manage symptoms, it may not reverse the underlying degeneration. 

Research status and treatment decisions

Research into emerging medical approaches is ongoing. Early laboratory findings, small studies, or preliminary clinical results do not establish that a product or procedure is safe or effective for every person with this condition. Treatment decisions should account for the quality of the evidence, regulatory status, known risks, established alternatives, and the patient’s individual medical history.

Questions to discuss with a licensed clinician

• What diagnosis has been confirmed, and what else could be causing the symptoms?
• Which established treatment options are appropriate, and what are their expected benefits and risks?
• What evidence supports the specific product or procedure being considered?
• Is the proposed use FDA-approved for this exact purpose or being studied in a registered clinical trial?
• What side effects, costs, follow-up needs, and alternatives should be considered?

This article provides general educational information and is not medical advice. It does not diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition, and it does not promise a particular outcome.