Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)

What is DDD?

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition where damaged spinal discs cause pain and difficulty with spinal movements. Spinal discs act like cushioning and shock absorbers between the bones of the spine and allow the back to be flexible. Due to the low blood supply discs receive, injuries will not repair themselves and further degeneration will set in over 20 to 30 years.

What does DDD feel like?

Symptoms include pain in the neck and/or back when walking, and may extend to arms and legs. Numbness and tingling in the extremities and buttocks may also be experienced. Pain and other symptoms may come and go as well as vary in severity.

 

Causes include:

  • Loss of fluid in the discs
    • Spinal discs dry with age and their ability to absorb shocks lessen
  • Small tears of the disc’s outer layer
    • Daily activities and sports wear down the discs
  • Injuries which cause soreness, swelling, and instability

How can DDD be treated?

Common treatment options include:

  • Interferential current (IFC) for pain
  • TENS
  • Chiropractic and massage therapy
  • Laser therapy
  • Rehabilitation exercises
  • Acupuncture
  • Ultrasound
  • Manual therapy
  • Surgical intervention
  • Dry needling