Degenerative disc disease is an age-related condition that happens when one or more of the discs between the vertebrae of the spinal column deteriorates or breaks down, leading to pain.

Spine Degenerative Symptoms

Disc degeneration may cause no symptoms, or the pain may be so intense that the individual cannot continue with their daily activities.

The condition starts with damage to the spine, but in time, symptoms can affect other parts of the body. Symptoms usually get worse with age.

The discomfort can range from mild to severe and debilitating. It can lead to osteoarthritis, with pain and stiffness in the back.

The most common early symptom is usually pain and weakness in the back that radiates to another area.

If the damage is in the lower back, or lumbar spine, the discomfort may radiate to the buttocks and upper thighs. There may also be tingling, numbness, or both, in the legs or feet.

If the damage is in the neck area, or cervical spine, the pain may spread to the shoulder, arm, and hand.

There may also be instability in the spine, leading to muscle spasms in the lower back or neck, as the body tries to stabilize the vertebrae. This can be painful.

The individual may experience flareups of intense pain.

The pain may be worse when sitting, bending, lifting, or twisting. Walking, lying down, and changing position may help relieve it.

Spine Degenerative Symptoms

Patients who do not respond to conservative therapies within about 3 months may consider surgery.

This may be an option if there is:

• back or leg pain that stops the patient from carrying out regular activities
• numbness or weakness in the legs
• difficulty standing or walking