Johann H
The Mayo Clinic is a medical institution known for its expertise in various health conditions. Its insights on degenerative disc disease will provide valuable information on its causes, symptoms to look out for, and treatment options available. In this post, we’ll explain the main causes of this disease so you can understand it better.
What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is a condition that is caused by the deterioration of the intervertebral discs in the spine. These discs cushion the vertebrae, providing flexibility and absorbing shock during movement. The slides that follow explain many reasons DDD can occur.
Age
Degenerative changes in the spine are a part of aging, leading to the breakdown of intervertebral discs and other spinal structures. As people age, the discs lose water content and elasticity, becoming less effective at cushioning the vertebrae and supporting the spinal movement.
Genetics
Genetic factors can predispose individuals to degenerative disc disease, influencing the strength and integrity of the spinal discs. Certain genetic traits may make some people more susceptible to disc degeneration that leads to earlier onset or more severe symptoms of DDD compared to others.
Trauma
Injuries to the spine, such as from car accidents, falls, or sports-related impacts, can accelerate the degenerative process in the intervertebral discs. Traumatic injuries may cause structural damage to the discs and compromise their ability to absorb shock and maintain spinal stability over time.
Repetitive Motion
Activities or jobs that involve repetitive movements or heavy lifting can contribute to degenerative disc disease. Over time, repetitive stress on the spine can cause wear and tear of the intervertebral discs, which speeds up their degeneration and increases the risk of developing DDD symptoms.
Obesity
Excess body weight can place pressure on the spinal discs, which may accelerate their degeneration. Obesity can also lead to inflammation and metabolic changes that negatively affect the intervertebral discs and surrounding structures.
Smoking Tobacco
Smoking cigarettes can cause degenerative disc disease. The chemicals in cigarette smoke can impair blood flow to the spinal discs, limit their ability to receive essential nutrients, and repair damage caused.
Poor Posture
Incorrect posture like slouching or sitting for prolonged periods with poor spinal alignment, can strain the intervertebral discs excessively. Over time, poor posture can contribute to disc degeneration and the development of degenerative disc disease, especially in the lumbar (lower back) region.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Lack of exercise and prolonged periods of certain inactivities can weaken the muscles supporting the spine and contribute to disc degeneration. Regular exercise helps maintain spinal health by promoting circulation, flexibility, and muscle strength, which reduces the risk of developing degenerative disc disease.
Poor Nutrition
Inadequate intake of important nutrients, such as vitamins C and D, calcium, and protein, can compromise the health of the intervertebral discs. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet supports the maintenance of spinal health and may help prevent degenerative disc disease.
Spinal Misalignment
Abnormalities in spinal alignment, such as scoliosis or kyphosis, can place uneven pressure on the intervertebral discs, contributing to their degradation over time. Structural imbalances in the spine alter the distribution of forces, leading to accelerated wear and tear of the discs.
Occupational Hazards
Certain occupations involving heavy lifting, repetitive bending or sitting for long hours may increase the risk of developing degenerative disc disease. Due to the physical demands of certain jobs, workers in industries such as construction, nursing, and transportation are particularly susceptible to spinal wear and tear.
Poor Lifting Techniques
Improper lifting methods, such as bending at the waist instead of the knees or twisting while lifting, can strain the spinal discs and increase the risk of injury. Over time, repeated improper lifting can contribute to the development of degenerative disc disease
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes, like those occurring during pregnancy or menopause, can affect the structure and integrity of the intervertebral discs. Changes in hormone levels or estrogen deficiency may influence the discs’ hydration and elasticity, contributing to their degeneration and the onset of DDD symptoms.
Spinal Infections or Tumors
Rarely, degenerative disc disease can result from spinal infections or tumors that affect the health of the intervertebral discs. Inflammatory conditions or neoplastic growths within the spine can disrupt the structure of the discs, leading to degeneration and associated symptoms.
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