What is degenerative disc disease (DDD)?

As to the definition of degenerative disk disease, it should be noted that degenerative disk disease is simply age appropriate degeneration of the spinal or vertebral disk that serve as shock absorbers between vertebrae which are the bones that make up the spine. Over time the disk lose integrity, both its fluid content and its plasticity or its flexibility thereby leading to changes in the orientation from vertebrae to vertebrae which also changes the orientation of the spinal canals which is where the spinal nerves exit and the combination of these changes certainly can contribute to low back pain. Osteoarthritis which is basically arthritis brought on by wear and tear, this wear and tear can certainly contribute to micro injury to the disk itself and again secondary to changes in the architecture of the disk itself can lead to changes in the orientation from vertebrae to vertebrae which affect the spinal canals and can cause an irritation and inflammation in the areas of the back that are affected by this difficulty. These changes are seen quite frequently in people who are heavy smokers, overweight, sudden losses or gains in weight, and in also people who perform improperly heavy lifting due to poor body mechanics, etc.

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is not really a disease but a term used to describe the normal changes of the discs in the spine as a person ages. The breakdown of the discs can result in back pain, neck pain, or other problems.

Age-related changes that cause DDD include a loss of fluid in the discs and tiny tears or cracks in the outer layer (annulus or capsule) of the disc. A sudden (acute) injury leading to a herniated disc may also begin the degeneration process.

Pain from DDD is first treated with ice or heat and with over-the-counter medicines. If you develop health problems such as osteoarthritis, a herniated disc or spinal stenosis. You may need other treatments. These include physical therapy and exercises. In some cases, surgery may be recommended.