conditions we treat
degenerative disc disease
Degenerative disc disease is a common condition faced by aging athletes and active individuals, also common in individuals who lead a sedentary lifestyle.
Discs are cartilage cushions between the bones of our spine. The discs act as shock absorbers and help keep the spine mobile. Over time the discs thin, can tear and are less absorbent than they were in youth.
Nearly everyone’s discs will show signs of wear and tear as they get older. If that wear and tear causes pain, it may be diagnosed as degenerative disc disease.
Symptoms of degenerative disc disease include:
- Pain that is worse when sitting
- Pain that is worse with bending, lifting, or twisting
- Pain that gets better with movement or changing positions
- Periodic flare ups of severe pain
- Numbness/tingling in the arms or legs
Treatments for degenerative disc disease include:
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What causes degenerative disc disease?
Healthy discs are well hydrated. When we are born, the discs are about 80% water. As we age the discs tend to dry out and become desiccated. This dehydration can lead to degeneration.
Wear and tear plays an important role in disc degeneration as well. Activities that are hard on your neck or low back can cause microtrauma to the disc, which can eventually lead to degeneration. Third, genetics also play an important role in how likely a person is to develop disc degeneration.
How can a sports chiropractor help with degenerative disc disease?
Once a disc has degenerated it unfortunately will never heal to its original state. However, that does not mean it has to continue to cause pain.
Degenerative disc disease tends to cause a lot of reactive muscle spasm and changes to how patients move. Soft tissue therapies such as ART, cross friction massage, dry needling, Graston Technique, and FAKTR-PM can help provide back and neck pain relief as well as prevent problems in the future.
The sports chiropractors at Premier Sports & Spine Center are uniquely trained and qualified to utilize these therapies to help patients with degenerative disc disease.
In addition, our providers will teach patients rehabilitation exercises that help them gain strength and change movement patterns in order to take pressure off of the degenerated discs and minimize flare ups.
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Frequently asked questions
What can you expect from a visit with the sports chiropractors at Premier Sports & Spine? Read about what a visit entails in our FAQ.