What is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) refers to the gradual wear and tear of the spinal discs, which act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. As the discs break down over time, they lose flexibility and hydration, which can result in pain and reduced mobility. DDD is a common cause of chronic back and neck pain and can lead to other spinal conditions like disc herniation or spinal stenosis.
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- Understanding Your Treatment Options
- Recovery times & Milestones
- Essential Exercises for Prehab
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If you are starting your recovery journey, we’d love to be your partner. In the meantime, this essential guide can get you on the road to recovery today!
What causes Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease is primarily caused by the natural aging process. Over time, the spinal discs lose their water content, becoming thinner and less able to absorb shock. This degeneration can be accelerated by factors such as repetitive strain, poor posture, previous injuries, or genetic predisposition. Smoking and obesity may also contribute to the faster breakdown of the discs.
What are the symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease?
Symptoms of degenerative disc disease include persistent or intermittent pain in the back or neck, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. The pain is often worse when sitting, bending, or lifting and may radiate into the arms or legs if nerve compression occurs. Other symptoms include muscle weakness, numbness, or tingling in the extremities, especially if a damaged disc presses on surrounding nerves.
What are the symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease?
Following a diagnosis of degenerative disc disease, it is essential to connect with a physical therapist to develop a personalized course of treatment.
Mild cases of degenerative disc disease can often be managed with a focused physical therapy program that strengthens the muscles supporting the spine, improves flexibility, and alleviates pressure on the discs.
What is the best treatment for Degenerative Disc Disease?
In more severe cases, conservative treatments like spinal injections, medications, and physical therapy may not provide enough relief. Surgery is considered only when non-surgical options fail or significant nerve compression occurs. In such cases, pre-surgery "prehab" can improve outcomes, and post-surgery rehabilitation is crucial for restoring function and mobility.
If you can’t come in for an evaluation or want to get started immediately, we've created a recovery guide designed for athletes and active adults to help you make informed decisions about your care.
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We Are expert practitioners
Part art, part science - our work combines cutting edge science with hard-won insights to deliver an experience that goes far beyond traditional physical therapy.
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For athletes and active adults, physical therapy isn’t just about relieving pain. It’s about getting back on the path to achieving your goals.
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With a boutique, personalized experience - you’ll feel the care and intentionality of our team from our first conversation to our final session.
