Running does not cause degenerative disc disease. Repetitive running for exercise may increase the risk of injury the discs in your back, especially as the discs become fragile due to age. It is possible for a runner with degenerative disc disease to return to running for exercise after treatment for the condition.
Identification
The discs around the vertebra are cushion and protection to the spine and internal organs. Degenerative disc disk disease, also called spondylosis, occurs when there is damage to these invertebral discs. The damage causes swelling, inflammation and bulging of the discs. It is possible for degenerative disc disease to form in all areas of the spine.
Cause
The primary cause of degenerative disc disease is wear and tear to the vertebra and aging. The discs around the vertebra are soft and spongy at birth and contain 80 percent water. The water level decreases as you age, making them stiff and less spongy. As the discs flatten, there is less cushioning around the vertebra making the area susceptible to injury. Flattened and stiff discs are more fragile to the repetitive jarring movements of running.
Treatment
A person diagnosed with degenerative disc disease will undergo a treatment that includes rest and limited activity to decrease the swelling and inflammation. There is no running allowed during the treatment period set up by your physician. Massage therapy along with hot and cold packs assist with reducing pain and swelling in the area. Surgery is available if the disc swelling and pain does not respond to non-invasive treatment. Surgical treatment involves the removal of the damaged disc and either fusing the spine or removing a section of the spine to make room for the discs.
Running
The Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons verifies that walking, followed by gradual running, occurs after a successful treatment period or the surgical fusion heals. Your physician will recommend light activity as your strength increases. It is important to add activity gradually and intensity to prevent a repeat injury to the discs. You may need to decrease your running intensity and duration after treatment to prevent future damage to the discs.
Considerations
It is important to refrain from running and to contact your doctor immediately if you suspect an injury to your spine or discs. The healing period after degenerative disc disease takes time, making it important refrain from running until your doctor verifies your back can handle the jarring movements. Consider alternating running exercise days with other forms of low-impact exercise such as yoga, swimming or biking.
