What is degenerative disc disease?
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) describes the gradual wear that spinal discs undergo with age. Over time, discs lose water content and height, becoming less flexible and more prone to tears and irritation. Despite the name, it isn't truly a "disease" — nearly everyone's discs change with age. It only needs treatment when those changes cause pain or press on nearby nerves.
Symptoms of degenerative disc disease
- Low back or neck pain that may come and go and range from nagging to severe.
- Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, lifting, or twisting — and often eases when you walk or change position.
- Radiating pain, numbness, or weakness if a worn disc irritates a nearby nerve.
- Flare-ups that settle down over days to weeks.
What causes disc degeneration?
The main driver is age, but genetics, smoking, physically demanding work, prior injury, and excess body weight can accelerate it. As discs wear, they can contribute to related problems such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis.
How we diagnose and treat it
Diagnosis combines your history, a physical exam, and imaging such as MRI when appropriate. Because disc changes are common on scans, our specialists focus on matching the imaging to your actual symptoms. Treatment starts conservatively:
- Physical therapy and core strengthening to support the spine and reduce flare-ups.
- Activity modification and healthy-weight strategies.
- Medications to control pain and inflammation.
- Injections through our pain management team for targeted relief.
- Disc replacement or fusion in select cases with severe, persistent pain; Dr. Perry Argires is a regional expert in artificial disc replacement.
Request an appointment or call (717) 358-0800 to build a plan for your back or neck pain.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is degenerative disc disease actually a disease?
Despite the name, degenerative disc disease is not a disease but a description of the normal, age-related wear that spinal discs undergo over time. It becomes a clinical concern only when that wear causes pain or affects nearby nerves.
What are the symptoms of degenerative disc disease?
Symptoms can include low back or neck pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or twisting and eases with movement or changing position. When a worn disc irritates a nerve, it can also cause radiating pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg.
How is degenerative disc disease treated?
Most people are managed without surgery using physical therapy, activity modification, medications, and sometimes injections. When pain is severe and persistent, options such as disc replacement or fusion may be considered. Call Argires Specialty Group at (717) 358-0800 to discuss your options in Lancaster, PA.
Manage back pain and keep moving
Degenerative disc disease doesn't have to slow you down. Let our spine team build a plan that fits your life. Schedule a consultation today.
Request an Appointment Call (717) 358-0800