ANN ARBOR, Mich. - eTradeWire -- What is degenerative disc disease?

What causes DDD?

Can the symptoms be managed?

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is a condition where the discs in your spine start to break down. This process is a natural part of aging, but it can also be accelerated by things like injury, repeated stress, or genetics.

What are the characteristics of DDD?

• Disc Dehydration: As we age, our spinal discs lose water content, which makes them thinner and less flexible. This reduces their ability to absorb shocks.
• Disc Herniation: The disc's outer layer may weaken, leading to bulging or herniation, where the inner gel-like core pushes out.
• Bone Spurs: As discs deteriorate, the body may produce bone spurs (osteophytes) to stabilize the spine, which can cause pain if they press on nerves.

What are the symptoms of DDD?

• Chronic Pain: Prolonged pain in the lower back, neck, or buttocks is common. Pain may worsen with activities like bending, lifting, or twisting.
• Radiating Pain: Pain that radiates down the arms (cervical spine) or legs (lumbar spine), known as radiculopathy, if nerves are compressed.
• Numbness and Tingling: These sensations might occur in the extremities if nerve compression is involved.
• Muscle Weakness: Muscle weakness can develop in severe DDD cases, affecting mobility and strength in the arms or legs.
• Pain Relief with Movement: Interestingly, pain may decrease with certain movements, like walking or changing positions, as these activities relieve pressure on the affected discs.

DDD is typically managed with physical therapy, pain medications, lifestyle changes, and in severe cases, surgical intervention.

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Read the full article on Pivotal's website: https://www.pivotalchiropractic.com/degenerative-disc-disease/

Looking in Ann Arbor for Help with Back Pain?

Chiropractic work can help you manage degenerative disc disease, as well as many other secondary conditions. For help with back pain in Ann Arbor, schedule a no-commitment consultation by calling 734-221-0362 or submitting a contact form here: https://www.pivotalchiropractic.com/contact-us/

About Pivotal Chiropractic: The sooner neck pain is treated, the better. Don't wait to get relief – contact Dr. Gessert today! You don't have to live your life in pain. We can help you get back to the activities you love. Contact Dr. Gessert for a complimentary consultation today to see if chiropractic care is the right solution for your neck pain.

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