As you age, your body naturally adapts to the extra pressure it is subjected to, with conditions like degenerative disc disease becoming more common. Approximately 40% of adults over 40 years have a degenerated disc disease. The odds increase to 80% with people above 80 years.
With diagnostic imaging and x-rays, doctors can identify the various phases of spinal disc degeneration. Understanding the four stages is essential, which can present numerous difficulties for those affected. Take a closer look at each stage and what assistance is available to manage these issues.
Stages of Degenerative Disc Disease
Here are the four stages of degenerative disc disease:
- Dysfunction
- Dehydration
- Stabilization
- Collapsing
The progress from each phase is synonymous with the amount of pressure and pain on your spine and other neurological features. Some worn-out spinal discs will be painless and allow you to move about quickly.
Recognizing the onset of a condition can be difficult; however, keeping an eye out for warning signs and symptoms allows for early detection. By looking in-depth into each stage, you can manage and treat accordingly.
Let us deeply explore the various phases of this process and better understand how to identify each one ahead of time.
Dysfunction
Dysfunction is the mildest form of the degenerative disc disease and occurs when the intervertebral discs lose some of their elasticity and ability to absorb shock. As a result, the disc may bulge or herniate slightly, causing minor irritation to nearby nerves or muscles. However, there may not be any symptoms at this stage, and the condition may be detected incidentally during a routine imaging test, such as an X-ray or MRI.
As DDD progresses from dysfunction to the more severe stages, the disc may lose height and hydration, leading to further bulging or herniation. This can pressure the nerves and cause pain, weakness, or numbness in the back, arms, or legs. In some cases, the discs may collapse altogether, causing the vertebrae to rub against each other and resulting in bone spurs or osteoarthritis.
Treatment for dysfunction is typically conservative and aimed at relieving any associated symptoms. This may include:
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is an effective treatment option for individuals with dysfunction-stage DDD. A physical therapist can create a personalized exercise program focusing on strengthening the muscles supporting the spine, improving posture, and increasing flexibility.
This can help reduce pain and improve overall function. The exercises may include stretches, core strengthening, and low-impact aerobic activities like swimming or walking. Physical therapy may also include manual techniques like massage or spinal manipulation, which can help improve joint mobility and reduce muscle tension.
Anti-inflammatory Medication
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to treat pain and inflammation associated with degenerative disc disease. These medications reduce inflammation in the affected area, which can help relieve pain and improve mobility. NSAIDs can be obtained over the counter or prescribed by a doctor.
However, it's important to note that long-term use of NSAIDs can have adverse side effects, such as stomach ulcers and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. As a result, it's essential to discuss the risks and benefits of NSAIDs with a healthcare provider.
Modifications to Daily Activities
Modifying daily activities can help relieve symptoms associated with dysfunction-stage DDD. This may include avoiding unnecessary activities that strain the spine, such as heavy lifting or high-impact exercise. Improve posture while sitting, standing, or sleeping. A supportive chair or mattress can reduce pressure on the spine.
Additionally, weight management can be beneficial, as excess weight can strain the spine and exacerbate DDD symptoms. Quitting smoking is also recommended, as smoking can decrease blood flow to the spine and inhibit the body's healing ability.
It's worth noting that individuals with DDD may have mild or moderate, never progressing beyond dysfunction, or severe cases requiring surgical intervention. Some may not experience symptoms or need treatment at all. The common signs for this stage include:
- Change in posture showing to accommodate the worn-out degenerative discs
- Slight discomfort in your movement
- Mild back or neck pain
Dehydration
Stage 2 is where the pain sets in for most patients with degenerative disc disease. In the dehydration stage, the discs grow thinner, causing more discomfort and pain. Some of the symptoms of this phase include:
- Significant changes in your posture
- Bone and spinal deformation
- Significant discomfort
- Moderate back and neck pain
- Lack of energy and tiredness
Your spinal structure's standard healthy and viscous discs become fragile, incoherent, and exposed. Your spinal discs continue thinning out in this phase, causing dehydration and disc burnout. It becomes close to non-existent, and the spine experiences excessive pressure or force that sometimes causes it to bulge outwards to withstand the pressure.
Without the spinal discs, the spine's structure is compromised. You'll notice your back becoming more misaligned as the pain worsens. It'll make you more uncomfortable even when doing simple chores like walking, moving, or lifting. No medium absorbs the shock because it's dehydrated, and the discs become more dysfunctional.
It causes the spine to have increased friction and makes it challenging to hold the shape and structure of the spine. There will be no swift and easy movement because of the new limitations. This situation worsens with age and obesity because of the pressure exerted due to weight.
The back pain experienced, as a result, will start affecting your daily chores and functions because of limited movement and the increasing pain. Quick visits to a spine specialist allow you to create pain management and treatment options.
It helps if you start our treatment early. You'll have more options and can try out what works for your situation. You'll be able to maintain your routine, albeit with a few changes for spine management. Here are some treatment options at this stage.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy allows your body to adjust to the new spinal condition. For example, simple stretching or exercises such as cycling under supervision will enable you to build the back and stomach muscles to strengthen your core.
Also, it alleviates the pain by 'teaching' the spine to rely on other parts for support, thus increasing mobility. However, ensure you do these exercises per the instructions of a certified therapist lest you increase the inflammation.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care relieves your pain and inflation while improving your mobility on the intervertebral discs. Chiropractors will examine your spine and check for areas with high tension and deformity. They'll focus on these areas to try and restore the spinal structure. In turn, you'll increase your flexibility and manage the condition better.
Medication
Stage 2 patients with degenerative disc disease need pain-relieving prescriptions. Sometimes the pain can be so severe that you need quick relief using medicines.
If the non-invasive methods aren't entirely practical, you can opt for steroids or relaxers in the form of spine injections. These injections also have anti-inflammatory effects that help with pain relief and management as you work through your daily activities.
Stabilization
In stage 3, the pain continues spiking. You can't identify any viscosity or discs in this stage. The spine starts developing a response to the non-existent spinal discs. It tries to create a solid base for the column to maintain its structure. However, this is usually a temporary fix.
The pain experienced in this stage will peak and drop at some point after the spinal column narrows. But you must visit a spine specialist for further advice and recommendations before the effects become permanent. Look out for these signs and symptoms at stage 3:
- Further posture changes
- Severe nerve compression
- Spinal stenosis
- Muscle aches
- Stiffness of the back and neck
- Extreme pain
- Difficulty in movement
- Possible nerve damage
- Bone deformation and scar tissue
While the spine adapts and tries to stabilize its core function, you'll experience spinal stenosis. This is because the spinal column narrows to reduce the pressure or force exerted at the base. It's an uncomfortable process that results in stiffness, muscle aches, and severe back and neck pain.
You'll also lose your mobility or have challenges because of the stiff and 'weak' spinal column. Once the stabilization process is complete, the pain might reduce but ensure you visit a spine specialist for professional advice.
Of the four stages of degenerative disc disease, the first three stages are reversible. At stage 3, you'll have a final chance for a working treatment strategy. You can utilize these treatment options.
Physical Care
Physical therapists can use special techniques and exercises to rebuild your spinal strength. They focus on enhancing the muscles and core strength to supplement the lost functionality of the spinal discs. It will help you regain mobility and perform essential functions in your home.
Chiropractic care helps to relieve tension and pain. They understand the spinal anatomy and unique and traditional techniques to reverse your condition. It's possible to achieve considerable mobility when using either of these techniques.
Medical Surgery
Medical surgery often comes as the last resort as you try to rectify the spinal column damage. Try the exercises using steroids or relaxers to gauge their impact before surgery.
Spinal surgeries in DDD aim to reduce pain and inflammation and improve your stability through decompression surgeries. The surgeon may use severe nerve or sensory connections to the brain for pain management surgeries.
This way, the nerve endings won't communicate the pain, making you relatively comfortable. Your specialist will examine your scan results before choosing which option to use.
Collapsing
This is the fourth stage in degenerative disc condition and is irreversible. It occurs after continuously rubbing the spinal bones on each other, causing hernia, inflammation, bone deformation, and disintegration. Sometimes it affects the nerves causing further damage to your spine and mobility.
Common symptoms of the collapsing stage:
- Excruciating pain
- The collapse of the spinal column
- Nerve damage or bone fusion
Exposing the bones to each other could cause fusion to strengthen the column. It may lead to more complications in this phase. However, you could manage this condition in stage four to improve mobility.
The pain in this stage could lead to spine and neck numbness. It'll depend on the extent of degeneration. This damage depends on the scan results and recommendations per your specialist's visit.
The spine specialist can analyze the extent of the bone damage and osteoporosis using an MRI or CT scan. They'll give you a working pain management plan to maintain a healthy and prolonged lifestyle.
A neurosurgeon should analyze the nerve damage to determine the degree of damage to your body. They'll then recommend a treatment plan to keep your body up to speed. Physical exercises and therapies will help manage the pain and make your life more comfortable with increased mobility.
How Fast Does Degenerative Disc Disease Progress?
Degenerative DIsc disease presents itself differently in people. It could take decades or a few months, or weeks to progress to the final stage. Various risk factors can quicken its progress into the last step. But with proper care, you can manage the pain and live a comfortable life for an extended period.
People with pre-existing spinal conditions may have a short progression period because of the predisposing conditions. The disease will progress further quickly if not captured and treated early enough.
Also, the condition may progress quickly if you don't visit a specialist early. You need to see a specialist promptly, and they'll send you for a scan before setting you up on a winning treatment plan. You'll have to do several scans for proper diagnosis and treatment. Remember, at stage 4, you'll find it more challenging to regain your mobility and lifestyle.
Other risk factors that may accelerate DDD's progression include:
- Obesity
- Age - the older you are, the higher your chances of acceleration
- Job type, that is, if it involves carrying heavy objects
- Gender - women are at higher risk
- Other previous injuries
Start Your DDD Treatment Today
The only and most secure way of dealing with DDD is to start your treatment early. Educate yourself on the possible signs and symptoms for early identification. If you feel any neck or back pain, get examined by a spine specialist. Proper analysis will help you maintain your lifestyle without interfering with your daily activities.
As you age, your body naturally adapts to the extra pressure it is subjected to, with conditions like degenerative disc disease becoming more common. Approximately 40% of adults over 40 years have a degenerated disc disease. The odds increase to 80% with people above 80 years.
With diagnostic imaging and x-rays, doctors can identify the various phases of spinal disc degeneration. Understanding the four stages is essential, which can present numerous difficulties for those affected. Take a closer look at each stage and what assistance is available to manage these issues.
Stages of Degenerative Disc Disease
Here are the four stages of degenerative disc disease:
- Dysfunction
- Dehydration
- Stabilization
- Collapsing
The progress from each phase is synonymous with the amount of pressure and pain on your spine and other neurological features. Some worn-out spinal discs will be painless and allow you to move about quickly.
Recognizing the onset of a condition can be difficult; however, keeping an eye out for warning signs and symptoms allows for early detection. By looking in-depth into each stage, you can manage and treat accordingly.
Let us deeply explore the various phases of this process and better understand how to identify each one ahead of time.
Dysfunction
Dysfunction is the mildest form of the degenerative disc disease and occurs when the intervertebral discs lose some of their elasticity and ability to absorb shock. As a result, the disc may bulge or herniate slightly, causing minor irritation to nearby nerves or muscles. However, there may not be any symptoms at this stage, and the condition may be detected incidentally during a routine imaging test, such as an X-ray or MRI.
As DDD progresses from dysfunction to the more severe stages, the disc may lose height and hydration, leading to further bulging or herniation. This can pressure the nerves and cause pain, weakness, or numbness in the back, arms, or legs. In some cases, the discs may collapse altogether, causing the vertebrae to rub against each other and resulting in bone spurs or osteoarthritis.
Treatment for dysfunction is typically conservative and aimed at relieving any associated symptoms. This may include:
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is an effective treatment option for individuals with dysfunction-stage DDD. A physical therapist can create a personalized exercise program focusing on strengthening the muscles supporting the spine, improving posture, and increasing flexibility.
This can help reduce pain and improve overall function. The exercises may include stretches, core strengthening, and low-impact aerobic activities like swimming or walking. Physical therapy may also include manual techniques like massage or spinal manipulation, which can help improve joint mobility and reduce muscle tension.
Anti-inflammatory Medication
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to treat pain and inflammation associated with degenerative disc disease. These medications reduce inflammation in the affected area, which can help relieve pain and improve mobility. NSAIDs can be obtained over the counter or prescribed by a doctor.
However, it's important to note that long-term use of NSAIDs can have adverse side effects, such as stomach ulcers and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. As a result, it's essential to discuss the risks and benefits of NSAIDs with a healthcare provider.
Modifications to Daily Activities
Modifying daily activities can help relieve symptoms associated with dysfunction-stage DDD. This may include avoiding unnecessary activities that strain the spine, such as heavy lifting or high-impact exercise. Improve posture while sitting, standing, or sleeping. A supportive chair or mattress can reduce pressure on the spine.
Additionally, weight management can be beneficial, as excess weight can strain the spine and exacerbate DDD symptoms. Quitting smoking is also recommended, as smoking can decrease blood flow to the spine and inhibit the body's healing ability.
It's worth noting that individuals with DDD may have mild or moderate, never progressing beyond dysfunction, or severe cases requiring surgical intervention. Some may not experience symptoms or need treatment at all. The common signs for this stage include:
- Change in posture showing to accommodate the worn-out degenerative discs
- Slight discomfort in your movement
- Mild back or neck pain
Dehydration
Stage 2 is where the pain sets in for most patients with degenerative disc disease. In the dehydration stage, the discs grow thinner, causing more discomfort and pain. Some of the symptoms of this phase include:
- Significant changes in your posture
- Bone and spinal deformation
- Significant discomfort
- Moderate back and neck pain
- Lack of energy and tiredness
Your spinal structure's standard healthy and viscous discs become fragile, incoherent, and exposed. Your spinal discs continue thinning out in this phase, causing dehydration and disc burnout. It becomes close to non-existent, and the spine experiences excessive pressure or force that sometimes causes it to bulge outwards to withstand the pressure.
Without the spinal discs, the spine's structure is compromised. You'll notice your back becoming more misaligned as the pain worsens. It'll make you more uncomfortable even when doing simple chores like walking, moving, or lifting. No medium absorbs the shock because it's dehydrated, and the discs become more dysfunctional.
It causes the spine to have increased friction and makes it challenging to hold the shape and structure of the spine. There will be no swift and easy movement because of the new limitations. This situation worsens with age and obesity because of the pressure exerted due to weight.
The back pain experienced, as a result, will start affecting your daily chores and functions because of limited movement and the increasing pain. Quick visits to a spine specialist allow you to create pain management and treatment options.
It helps if you start our treatment early. You'll have more options and can try out what works for your situation. You'll be able to maintain your routine, albeit with a few changes for spine management. Here are some treatment options at this stage.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy allows your body to adjust to the new spinal condition. For example, simple stretching or exercises such as cycling under supervision will enable you to build the back and stomach muscles to strengthen your core.
Also, it alleviates the pain by 'teaching' the spine to rely on other parts for support, thus increasing mobility. However, ensure you do these exercises per the instructions of a certified therapist lest you increase the inflammation.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care relieves your pain and inflation while improving your mobility on the intervertebral discs. Chiropractors will examine your spine and check for areas with high tension and deformity. They'll focus on these areas to try and restore the spinal structure. In turn, you'll increase your flexibility and manage the condition better.
Medication
Stage 2 patients with degenerative disc disease need pain-relieving prescriptions. Sometimes the pain can be so severe that you need quick relief using medicines.
If the non-invasive methods aren't entirely practical, you can opt for steroids or relaxers in the form of spine injections. These injections also have anti-inflammatory effects that help with pain relief and management as you work through your daily activities.
Stabilization
In stage 3, the pain continues spiking. You can't identify any viscosity or discs in this stage. The spine starts developing a response to the non-existent spinal discs. It tries to create a solid base for the column to maintain its structure. However, this is usually a temporary fix.
The pain experienced in this stage will peak and drop at some point after the spinal column narrows. But you must visit a spine specialist for further advice and recommendations before the effects become permanent. Look out for these signs and symptoms at stage 3:
- Further posture changes
- Severe nerve compression
- Spinal stenosis
- Muscle aches
- Stiffness of the back and neck
- Extreme pain
- Difficulty in movement
- Possible nerve damage
- Bone deformation and scar tissue
While the spine adapts and tries to stabilize its core function, you'll experience spinal stenosis. This is because the spinal column narrows to reduce the pressure or force exerted at the base. It's an uncomfortable process that results in stiffness, muscle aches, and severe back and neck pain.
You'll also lose your mobility or have challenges because of the stiff and 'weak' spinal column. Once the stabilization process is complete, the pain might reduce but ensure you visit a spine specialist for professional advice.
Of the four stages of degenerative disc disease, the first three stages are reversible. At stage 3, you'll have a final chance for a working treatment strategy. You can utilize these treatment options.
Physical Care
Physical therapists can use special techniques and exercises to rebuild your spinal strength. They focus on enhancing the muscles and core strength to supplement the lost functionality of the spinal discs. It will help you regain mobility and perform essential functions in your home.
Chiropractic care helps to relieve tension and pain. They understand the spinal anatomy and unique and traditional techniques to reverse your condition. It's possible to achieve considerable mobility when using either of these techniques.
Medical Surgery
Medical surgery often comes as the last resort as you try to rectify the spinal column damage. Try the exercises using steroids or relaxers to gauge their impact before surgery.
Spinal surgeries in DDD aim to reduce pain and inflammation and improve your stability through decompression surgeries. The surgeon may use severe nerve or sensory connections to the brain for pain management surgeries.
This way, the nerve endings won't communicate the pain, making you relatively comfortable. Your specialist will examine your scan results before choosing which option to use.
Collapsing
This is the fourth stage in degenerative disc condition and is irreversible. It occurs after continuously rubbing the spinal bones on each other, causing hernia, inflammation, bone deformation, and disintegration. Sometimes it affects the nerves causing further damage to your spine and mobility.
Common symptoms of the collapsing stage:
- Excruciating pain
- The collapse of the spinal column
- Nerve damage or bone fusion
Exposing the bones to each other could cause fusion to strengthen the column. It may lead to more complications in this phase. However, you could manage this condition in stage four to improve mobility.
The pain in this stage could lead to spine and neck numbness. It'll depend on the extent of degeneration. This damage depends on the scan results and recommendations per your specialist's visit.
The spine specialist can analyze the extent of the bone damage and osteoporosis using an MRI or CT scan. They'll give you a working pain management plan to maintain a healthy and prolonged lifestyle.
A neurosurgeon should analyze the nerve damage to determine the degree of damage to your body. They'll then recommend a treatment plan to keep your body up to speed. Physical exercises and therapies will help manage the pain and make your life more comfortable with increased mobility.
How Fast Does Degenerative Disc Disease Progress?
Degenerative DIsc disease presents itself differently in people. It could take decades or a few months, or weeks to progress to the final stage. Various risk factors can quicken its progress into the last step. But with proper care, you can manage the pain and live a comfortable life for an extended period.
People with pre-existing spinal conditions may have a short progression period because of the predisposing conditions. The disease will progress further quickly if not captured and treated early enough.
Also, the condition may progress quickly if you don't visit a specialist early. You need to see a specialist promptly, and they'll send you for a scan before setting you up on a winning treatment plan. You'll have to do several scans for proper diagnosis and treatment. Remember, at stage 4, you'll find it more challenging to regain your mobility and lifestyle.
Other risk factors that may accelerate DDD's progression include:
- Obesity
- Age - the older you are, the higher your chances of acceleration
- Job type, that is, if it involves carrying heavy objects
- Gender - women are at higher risk
- Other previous injuries
Start Your DDD Treatment Today
The only and most secure way of dealing with DDD is to start your treatment early. Educate yourself on the possible signs and symptoms for early identification. If you feel any neck or back pain, get examined by a spine specialist. Proper analysis will help you maintain your lifestyle without interfering with your daily activities.
Brace Direct believes that all patients should have access to high quality medical braces to help them get out of pain.
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