NC Doctors

It is often thought that degenerative disc disease is just a “natural” part of getting older.  The common belief is, as we age, our intervertebral discs lose their flexibility, elasticity, and shock absorbing abilities. The annulus fibrosis, the ligaments that surround the discs become brittle. When brittle, they are more easily torn. At the same time, the soft gel-like center of the disc, called the nucleus pulposus, starts to dry out and shrink. The development of bone spurs, and a gradual thickening of the ligaments that support the spine and the combination of damage to the intervertebral discs can all contribute to degenerative arthritis.   You cannot deny that our bodies change as we age.  Our bodies basically wear out. For some reason, there are people seem to go through these changes earlier in life and faster. It can be a combination of genetics, lifestyle, or a trauma of your spine.

Not everyone has pain, even though most people have some level of degenerative changes in their spine as they age.  Everyone is different.  It is important to realize that not everyone develops symptoms as a result of degenerative disc disease.

You should be able to recognize the symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease. It can cause several different symptoms, such as back pain, leg pain, and weakness as a result of compression of the nerve roots.  The worn out discs are the source of pain because they do not function as well as they once did.  As they shrink, the space available for the nerve roots also shrinks. The discs between the intervertebral bodies will begin to wear out and the entire lumbar spine becomes less flexible. The end result is usually people complaining of back pain, stiffness especially at the end of the day.

For a Free Consultation call 919-851-1515.  For More Information Go To: http://www.CarolinaSpineRelief.com