It’s no secret that we’re more likely to experience back pain as we get older. The days of being able to fall asleep on a couch consequence free are gone, and even if we catch ourselves slipping on ice, it could take days, if not weeks, for the resulting pain in our backs to go away. However, some of the pain we end up experiencing could signify something more long-term.
There are a number of chronic back problems that we can develop over time, one of which is known as degenerative disc disease. So how serious is it?
Is Degenerative Disc Disease Serious?
Degenerative disc disease, or DDD, despite the name, is not technically a disease. Basically, this condition occurs when the discs in your spine between your vertebrae deteriorate. From this, we experience pain and discomfort because the discs no longer provide the cushion and protection they had previously. While DDD is not life-threatening on its own, if left untreated, it can greatly impact your quality of life.
What Are the Stages of Degenerative Disc Disease?
DDD can naturally start as early as your 30’s or 40’s. Everyone’s bodies and habits are different, so wear and tear on our spines happens at different rates. Injuries related to sports, exercise, or a car accident could instigate DDD. A sedentary lifestyle and obesity causing more stress on the spine can also be contributing factors. Once a disc is damaged, it can’t repair itself. And because of the nature of our spines, it’s highly unlikely that you would just have a single disc deteriorate while all the others stay intact.
Can You Fix Degenerative Disc Disease?
There are several remedies that can help manage DDD, but it’s not exactly possible to fix it entirely. Physical therapy and certain exercises that can also be advised by a chiropractor can help manage the pain. Additionally, doctors can prescribe other things to assist with pain management.
In serious cases, surgery can be an option as well. Spinal fusion is a common surgery in handling DDD. Spinal fusion surgery is when two discs are fused together, which prevents discs from rubbing against each other and causing pain. Unfortunately, disc fusion does decrease mobility, and as a result, the recipients of spinal fusion overcompensate to make up for the loss of mobility. This causes other discs in the spine to deteriorate at a faster rate. That’s why many people suffering from back problems like DDD look to nonsurgical options such as chiropractic care first and often continue it to support healing and overcompensation after surgery.
East Bay Chiropractic Can Help Alleviate Your Back Pain
For many people, degenerative disc disease is an inevitability once we reach a certain age. But just because we’re afflicted with it doesn’t mean we have to allow chronic back pain to continue to impact our day-to-day life. East Bay Chiropractic specializes in the use of the Graston Technique® in pain management and relief caused by soft tissue fibrosis and chronic inflammation that could lead to constant discomfort or pain. And with over 30 years of experience, you know you’ll be in good hands. Contact East Bay Chiropractic today and learn more about how we can help you manage your chronic pain.