12/18/2025
What is Degenerative disc disease (DDD)? DDD is the wearing down of spinal discs, which are rubbery cushions located between the bones in your spinal column. These discs act as shock absorbers and facilitate comfortable movement, bending, and twisting. It is a natural part of aging for everyone's spinal discs to degenerate over time. The primary symptoms of degenerative disc disease are neck pain and back pain. The pain may come and go, lasting for weeks or months at a time, and it can cause numbness or tingling in the arms or legs. Additionally, the pain may radiate down the lower back and buttocks and worsen with sitting, bending, or lifting. DDD is caused by the natural aging process, which leads to the wearing down of spinal discs. As people age, the soft core of the discs, which is primarily composed of water, gradually loses water content. Consequently, the discs become thinner and offer less shock absorption than before. Minor injuries can also result in small cracks in the spinal discs, often near nerves. These tears can be painful, even if they are minor. The pain associated with DDD can occur in the neck or lower back and may extend into the arms, hands, buttocks, and legs. Contact First State Spine today to find out more about degenerative disc disease and the treatments available. https://firststatespine.com/surgical-options/treatment-options/conditions/
