Degenerative Disc Disease Causes

Degenerative disc disease causes are rooted in the changes that occur in our spinal column as we age. Over the years, the water and protein content of the body's cartilage changes. This change results in weaker, more fragile, and thinner cartilage throughout the body. In addition, daily life also puts stress on all of your body’s moving parts. Therefore, considering that both the discs and the joints in the spinal column are partly composed of cartilage – and that these areas are also subject to wear and tear over time – it becomes apparent that these cumulative changes will result in the gradual deterioration of the spinal column. The result of these changes is known as degenerative disc disease. Degenerative disc disease is sometimes referred to as spondylosis (spinal osteoarthritis) because the degenerative changes in both conditions are very similar.

By examining degenerative disc disease causes a little more closely, you will see that this condition progresses from the spinal discs to the spinal joints and also affects the nerves in the spinal column. Cartilaginous cushions known as intervertebral discs separate the spine’s vertebrae from each other. These discs provide structural support to the spine and act as shock absorbers, taking in the stress created by movement. The discs are mostly water, allowing them to be very elastic and absorb pressure. However, age and repetitive strain cause disc wear and tear.

This color enhanced sagital (lateral) MRI image of the cervical spine shows severe multilevel degenerative changes of the spine with spinal cord compression.

As the discs become thinner and harder, they are no longer able to protect the joints of the spine, called facet joints. Without disc protection, facet joints cannot move properly and this causes cartilage around the facet joints to break down. In response, the body tries to heal itself by adding extra bone to the spinal column. These new bony additions are called bone spurs, but instead of helping the situation, bone spurs can actually impinge upon nerves in the spinal canal, causing pain and disability.

In addition to aging and erosion, genetics may also play a role in degenerative disc disease causes. This means if you are related to someone with degenerative disc disease, you may be more at risk of developing it, too.

Click Here to see how you can get your life back in 5 days

Since disc problems are one of the most common causes of lower back pain, or lumbago, you may be interested in hearing about ways to prevent the degeneration from occurring in the first place. The best way to prevent this condition is to take good care of your body. Lifestyle choices such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding neck and back injury, sticking to a nutritious diet, and not smoking can potentially help you save your spine. If you still have questions about degenerative disc disease, or if you would like to learn more about gentle endoscopic treatments to reduce neck and back pain, please contact Laser Spine Institute. In addition to answering your questions, we also can provide you with a free MRI or CT scan review.

Back to: « About Degenerative Disc Disease

Continue reading: Lumbago »