Degenerative Disc Disease: What Causes It?

What causes it?

As discussed before, Degenerative Disc Disease is most commonly caused by aging. As we age the discs between our vertebrae thin out or lose fluid. This causes less flexibility and shock absorbency within our spine, which then causes the vertebrae in our spine to become closer together. 

As the discs degenerate and become non-existent, the vertebrae then rub together causing discomfort and pain. This disease can also be caused by cracks or tears within the outer layer of the disc. As the layer becomes weaker it forces the jelly like fluid outside of the disc, causing nerves to be accessed by proteins which causes pain. 

These causes are known to be found in more people who smoke, and those whom do heavy manual work. The natural digression of the discs in our back can also be quickened by those who are overweight. Herniated discs have also become more common of a cause of this disease, as you can acquire a herniated disc by a sudden fall as well, which then starts the process of degenerating discs. Once the fluid is lost between the vertebrae the body’s natural reaction is to reproduce bony growths called bone spurs.

 Bone spurs are not as one who think as spurs, but another smooth bone the body naturally produces. The problem that occurs with bone spurs is when they create pressure on surrounding nerves, which can lead to pain and discomfort.