Anyone is at risk for developing degenerative spine disease. This is considered as a common condition among those who are getting old. The symptoms that are associated with degenerative spine disease typically manifest as early as young adulthood. It is important to note that these symptoms tend to vary from one individual to another. With this in mind, there is no distinctive condition or cause for the disease and it is simply a term that is related to all types of degenerative spinal conditions. Even though it is considered as a common condition, some are not well aware of what this condition is all about.
Degenerative spine disease basically refers to any type of degenerative condition that involves the spinal column as well as bone and tissues of the spinal cord. There are various conditions with distinct symptoms and severity. The common conditions do not cause any symptoms and usually less severe in terms of pain over time.
Causes
Always bear in mind that there is no precise cause for degenerative spine diseases. Oftentimes, they can be initiated by normal physical strain experienced throughout the day or can also be caused by trauma. Even though anyone is prone to develop degenerative spine disease, some are more likely to develop symptoms than others.
One of the common symptoms for degenerative spine disease is low back pain or pain in the neck, legs or arms. These symptoms tend to vary in their nature and severity.
Treatment
The treatment options for degenerative spine disease also vary and it depends on the type of disease involved. Some of the treatment options only require rest as well as physical therapy while other modes of treatment are more intensive involving spinal injections or surgery. By enrolling in a first aid course, you can learn how to effectively manage pain.
What are the types of degenerative spine diseases?
Take note that there are at least three common types of degenerative spine diseases. It is important that you are familiar with these conditions.
A herniated disc is basically a protrusion that occurs in the intervertebral disc which is between the vertebral bones in the spine. This condition can be caused by trauma but also occur as one ages, thus compressing the nerves and producing pain. Herniated discs can manifest in various places along the spine but most occur in the lower back and cervical region in the neck. Uncommon forms of herniated discs occur in the middle back.
Spinal stenosis involves the narrowing of the spinal canal due to the swelling of the tissue surrounding the spine. The condition can result to the compression of the nerves and spinal cord.
Spinal instability occurs once the spinal cord becomes overly relaxed, resulting to instability. Always bear in mind that this is considered as a severe form of degenerative spine disease since it can lead to serious injuries and even neurological damage.
Possible misconceptions
In most cases, many assume that a degenerative disease worsens as one ages. Remember that this is not always the case. Excluding worst cases, most cases of degenerative spine diseases will not worsen over time. The degeneration only affects the disc alone, not the symptoms connected with it.