Degenerative Disc Disease Condition Center
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) usually affects older people because it’s caused by the effects of aging on the spine. The intervertebral discs can become stiff and rigid, causing pain and other symptoms. However, there are many treatments, including physical therapy, medications, exercise, and surgery.
Degenerative Disc Disease Facts & Tips
Degenerative disc disease rarely requires surgery.
Featured DDD Video
Watch what the normal aging process does to your spine's intervertebral discs.Top Degenerative Disc Resources
Featured Degenerative Disc Disease Articles
Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is a gradual wear and tear process on the spine. DDD is relatively common because it’s a natural part of aging. The symptoms can range from mild to severe, and the condition doesn’t always require treatment.
Surgeons are excited about a new technology that could significantly help patients with degenerative disc disease. Learn why an artificial disc may be a better solution than lumbar fusion and how it could relieve pain caused by disc disease.
Not every herniated disc happens suddenly. In fact, it’s more likely the pain is caused by normal, daily stress on the spine. Over time, the disc can degenerate and start to bulge. Here, see illustrations of the 4 stages of a herniating disc.
Time, old injuries, and bad habits take their toll on the spine as you age. But new treatments and better diagnostic tests can help keep back pain at bay throughout an entire lifetime. Learn what causes disc degeneration and spinal stenosis.
There are things you can do under your doctor's guidance to help prevent back pain from becoming too serious. For example, you can try getting more exercise and working to strengthen your spine. The other 4 tips are just as easy to implement.
A lumbar spinal fusion surgery may be recommended for various conditions, including disc herniation, lumbar spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, or degenerative disc disease. Learn how the surgeon will perform the fusion and how it will help your pain.
Other People are Reading...
Find A Professional in Your Area
Back Pain Help
© 1999-2009 SpineUniverse.com
This information is not designed to replace a physician's independent judgment about the appropriateness or risks of a procedure for a given patient. Always consult your doctor about your medical conditions or back problem. SpineUniverse does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Use of the SpineUniverse.com site is conditional upon your acceptance of our User Agreement
This information is not designed to replace a physician's independent judgment about the appropriateness or risks of a procedure for a given patient. Always consult your doctor about your medical conditions or back problem. SpineUniverse does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Use of the SpineUniverse.com site is conditional upon your acceptance of our User Agreement
Conditions
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Back Pain
Degenerative Disc
Fibromyalgia
Herniated Discs
Kyphosis
Low Back Pain
Neck Pain
Osteoporosis / Compression Fractures
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Sciatica
Scoliosis
Spinal Stenosis
Spondylosis
Spondylolisthesis
Whiplash
Other Conditions A-Z
Treatments
Pain Management
Find A Specialist
Resources
Clinical Trials
Ask The Experts
Back Pain Videos & Animations
Tests & Diagnosis
Anatomy
SpineUniverse en español
Back Products
Recommended Books
Links of Interest
Education Partners
Wellness
For Professionals