Degenerative Disc

What is Degenerative Disc Disorder?

The discs in your spine serve play a very important role in keeping your spine functioning in the way it is designed to be. However, these spinal discs can also start to show signs of wear and tear over time, particularly as they age.

Degenerative disc disease is one of the most common causes of neck and back pain and can lead to life-altering pain and discomfort. This condition is actually most common in healthy and active individuals in their 30s and 40s.

Causes of Degenerative Disc

There are several factors that can contribute to degenerative disc issues, including:

• Age and activity level
• Degenerative disorders including osteoporosis and arthritis
• Spinal discs drying out
• Daily activities that can cause tears in the disc
• Sports or extreme workouts
• Injuries that can cause soreness, swelling or spinal instability

Symptoms of Degenerative Disc

The symptoms of degenerative disc issues can vary depending on the individual. However, the most common symptoms include:

• Neck and back pain
• Numbness or tingling in the extremities
• Weakness in the legs
• Pain that increases while sitting
• Pain that worsens during twisting, lifting or bending
• Severe pain rushes that come and go
• Relief from pain only when standing, moving or altering your position.

Treating Degenerative Disc

Degenerative disc issues can range in terms of severity and require a professional diagnosis for proper treatment. Typically, this condition is diagnosed with an MRI. Here at Principal Spine and Pain Consultants, our team of pain management doctors are available to properly diagnose your disc issues and develop a plan that will get you out of pain and back to feeling like you.    

Contact Us for Lower Back Pain

Our pain management doctors are accepting new patients experiencing Degenerative Disc Disorder. To schedule an appointment, please call our Denton clinic at (940) 222-8943 or our Carrollton clinic at (972) 316-7270.