Degenerative disc disease can be severely disabling.
Intervertebral discs are the fluid filled shock absorbers in between the bones that make up your spine.
Most degenerative discs do not inflict pain. Some studies show >40% of people over the age of 40 have degenerative discs without having symptoms.
For others, degenerative discs can be disabling and life-limiting. Dehydration and structural failure can cause extreme pain with any loading, twisting, or bending.
If the discs ruptures, it can press on the spinal cord or a nerve(s) and can cause dysfunction, pain, problems with walking, bowel/bladder issues, numbness, and weakness.
Diagnosis
The success of treatment options depend on an accurate diagnosis, using a combination of but not limited to: physical exam, x-ray, CT scan, MRI, diagnostic injections, and EMG investigation.
Treatment
Treatment options include anti-inflammatories, steroids, physical therapy, weight loss (to lessen the load your back carries), core strengthening, injections, surgical fusion, or surgical disc replacement. All treatment options depend on the location/type of disc degeneration and a custom treatment plan is recommended for each and every patient.