Degenerative spine disease, more commonly known as disk disease, actually isn't a single disease; instead, it is a general term used to describe numerous diseases of the spinal column. All of the diseases in the degenerative disk disease category affect the spinal column and usually are the direct result of wear and tear that occurs on the body due to aging. Degenerative disk disease not only affects the disks, it also affects the bones and soft tissues in and around the spinal column.
Types
The most common forms of degenerative disk disease are spinal stenosis, herniated disks and spinal instability. Other conditions, such as Scheuermanns kyphosis, may also contribute to degenerative disk disease. Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal. Herniated disks are protrusions of the cushions, also called intravertebral disks, between the vertebral bones. Spinal instability is caused by the spine and ligaments becoming lax, which leads to abnormal weakness.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of degenerative disk disease is back pain, which is usually worsened by inflammation in the area. As the contributing factors get progressively worse, the pain increases. A decrease in motor skills and sensory function are also common symptoms of degenerative disk disease. Severe nerve pain as a result of compressed or pinched nerves is also common, especially in the case of spinal stenosis and herniated disks. There is also an increased risk of back injury, especially in the case of spinal instability.
Treatments
Treating degenerative disk disease requires a multi-faceted approach that encompasses pain management, increasing the stability of the spine and decreasing the risk of injury. Physical therapy, chiropractic care, back braces, injections in the spine (discography) and electrotherapy are non surgical treatments for degenerative disk disease. Back surgery and artificial disk placement are two surgical treatments your doctor might consider.
