How destructive is degenerative disk disease?

Answer 1

What is degenerative disc disease?
Degenerative disc disease is not really a disease but a term used to describe the normal changes in your spinal discs as you age. Spinal discs are soft, compressible discs that separate the interlocking bones (vertebrae) that make up the spine. The discs act as shock absorbers for the spine, allowing it to flex, bend, and twist. Degenerative disc disease can take place throughout the spine; however, it most often occurs in the discs in the lower back (lumbar region) and the lower part of the neck (cervical region).
I have it too.

Answer 2

I have it, and have suffered with it since 1985. it is now to the point that numbness in extremitys is a real problem and I drag my right foot. the left is numb from the ankle down to toes. my hip is in constant pain from sciatic nerve compression,tailbone even hurts even when just sitting!sometimes it hurts like when yu fall and hit yur tailbone,takes your breath away! My pain started and back spasms and has now progressed to a feeling of being severely shocked by electricity,sudden but quickand no long term spasms as I used to have frequently.also aching bones in legs is constant,dr says it is part of the syndrome.tramadol doesnt work or flexeril just makes you sleep your life away??surgery wont help me as discs are gone and bone is hitting bone.I am 60+ so I grin and bear it!it sucks getting old!!! and weather does cause you stiffness ,just like in cartoons!!

Answer 3

It depends. This question is better saved for a DOCTOR and not a forum full of wanna-be medical advice-givers. Also, you could try WebMD.com and see what they say about the disease.

Answer 4

It can be but it depends on location!! Low back is worse than neck!! You may consider taking multivitamins and Calcium with magnesium to reinforce your discs. Avoid sodas!!!! If low back, do not lift anything!!!