Degenerative Intervertebral Disc Disease

If your doctor sees "degenerative changes" on your x-ray or MRI, you may have developed osteoarthritis of the spine, or degenerative intervertebral disk disease. According to the Mayo Clinic, age plays a role in degenerative changes of the spine.

Features

Intervertebral discs provide a smooth cushion between vertebrae. These discs lose volume, allowing vertebrae to rub together, causing painful inflammation.

Time Frame

Most people develop minor intervertebral disc degeneration between the ages of 30 and 50. Injuries of the neck and back can cause degenerative changes before the age of 30.

Signs and Symptoms

Numbness or weakness in limbs, shoulder or chest pain, tingling in hands, feet, legs and arms are symptoms of degenerative disc disease. In severe cases, a patient may have problems walking and controlling his bladder or bowels. Some people never develop symptoms.

Treatments

Discuss physical therapy with gentle stretching and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as treatment for early symptoms, with your doctor.

Warning

According to Spine-Health, surgery may not provide pain relief. Surgical risks include nerve root damage, infection and loss of bowel and bladder control.

Considerations

The American Geriatrics Society states that opiate medications may be safer for patients who are over 60 and suffering from chronic pain caused by degenerative disc disease.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Osteoarthritis
• Mayo Clinic: Cervical Spondylosis
• American Geriatrics Society

Resources

• Spine Health