What is it?
Degenerative disc disease is the wear and tear of the disks in the back. These disk are located between the vertebrae in the back. They normally act as shock absorbers and help to keep the back flexible. The wear and tear of the disks is mainly caused by ageing.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms include back pain, neck pain and pain in the legs. If the degenerative disc disease has affected the neck it can cause pain in the arms. Tingling and numbness in the legs or arms may also be present. In some cases degenerative disc disease causes no or mild symptoms, in other cases symptoms are severe.
What to expect?
You can try the following:
- Pain relievers can help for easing pain.
- Improve your posture to prevent strain and loss of flexibility.
- Ice application to the painful area may relieve the pain.
- Make sure sure you use safe technique(First sit and then pick something up instead of bending over), when lifting things up.
- Stay active, do regular exercise.
- Maintain healthy weight.
If symptoms persist or worsening, consult your GP.