How to Recognize the Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease is not actually considered a disease but a medical term used to define the changes that take place in your spinal disc as you grow old. Spinal discs act as a partition between the interlocked bones that make up the spine. They also work as shock absorbers of the spine facilitating flexing, bending and twisting of the body.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Look out for low back pain centered in the midline that worsens with sitting.

2. Check if the pain is severe while bending and twisting of the body. The patient may feel better while walking and running, than prolonged sitting or standing.

3. See if the pain often radiates down to buttocks, upper thighs, legs or feet.

4. Find out if there is numbness or weakness in one or both the legs as it suggests degenerative disc problem.

5. Monitor the frequency and duration of severe pain. Any pain that is severe and lasts from a few days to a month indicates problem with spinal discs.

Tips & Warnings

• Give up smoking as it aggravates the degeneration of spine. This is all the more necessary if there is history of degenerative disc in your family.
• Regular exercise of the back goes a long way in preventing the disease.
• Changing positions frequently or lying down flat may also offer relief to the patient.

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[boatguy26]

on 2/1/2009 Every step that was listed are very good remedies for easing pain in the back. I have degenerative disk disease and I have done all of the above. The best advice I can give is to find a Doctor who is honest and always get a second opinion!

[shawnee50]

on 1/10/2009 Very nice article on Degenerative Disc Disease. Thank you very much.

[staysik]

on 12/25/2008 Really great, those of us with back pain all know the importance of these tips. I have some other links on How to Ease Back Pain- http://www.ehow.com/how_4605737_ease-back-pain.html if you want to check that out too. Back pain is never good, no matter the cause, and people who experience this type of pain can always use as much helpful information and tips as possible!! Thanks so much for fantastic and informative article :)