Degenerative disc disease is an alteration commonly found in imaging tests, such as x-rays, MRI, or CT, meaning that the intervertebral disc between each vertebra of the spine degenerates, i.e. loses its original shape, increasing the risk of having a herniated disk, for example.
Therefore, having a degenerative disc disease does not mean that the person has a herniated disk, but has an increased risk.
Characteristics of degenerative disc disease include the presence of
These changes are most common in the lumbar region, between the L4-L5 and L3-L4 vertebrae, but can affect any region of the spine. When no treatment is performed to improve the quality of the intervertebral disc, the most common consequence is the development of a herniated disk. Medical hernias are most common between the C6-C7, L4-L5 and L5-S1 vertebrae.
Disc degeneration, as it is also known, is caused by factors such as disc dehydration, cracks or disc ruptures, which can occur due to a sedentary lifestyle, trauma, vigorous exercise or physical exertion, in addition to aging itself. While this may affect young people, the most affected are those over 30 to 40.
People who spend many hours sitting and need to lean forward several times during the day, such as truckers, secretaries, and dentists, are more likely to have a spinal disc disturbance.
No major traumatic event is needed to trigger disk degeneration, as it can also develop silently and gradually throughout life.
Intervertebral disc degeneration may show no symptoms, especially in younger people who have not yet developed a herniated disk. It is usually discovered during an imaging exam, especially an MRI or CT scan. However, there may be symptoms such as worsening back pain or during exertion.
Learn about the symptoms and treatment of herniated disks
It is possible to improve the quality of the disc, completely eliminating pain, if any. Treatment to improve the quality of the intervertebral disc is based on two hypotheses: surgery, when a herniated disk already exists, or physical therapy when pain and movement are limited.
Important guidelines for degenerative discopathy, no symptoms and no herniated discs are to preserve the spine, maintaining good posture when walking, sitting, lying down, sleeping and standing. In addition, it is also important to avoid physical exertion, and whenever it is necessary to lift heavy objects, it must be done correctly, without forcing the column. The practice of physical exercises such as strength training, under the guidance of a professional, 2-3 times a week is recommended for all sedentary people who spend a lot of time in the same position during work. Discover the 7 habits that alter posture and that you should avoid.