30 Sep Top Causes of Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease is an extremely common condition in the United States. In fact, almost 90% of people will show some signs of degenerative disc disease by the time they are 60 years old. While spine degeneration is normal and occurs over time, pain is not normal. However, for some people, pain is a side effect of degenerative disc disease. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the condition. Surgery is even unlikely to help people suffering from degenerative disc disease. However, recent advancements in stem cell therapy have shown it is an effective form of treatment for patients who are experiencing pain or diminished quality of life due to the condition.

           For many ailments, understanding the cause can help to avoid the ailment from developing or worsening. This true to some extent with degenerative disc disease. Below are a few of the common causes people to develop degenerative disc disease and understanding these causes can help patients to make informed decisions for the future.

1. Discs Drying Out

           The top cause of degenerative disc disease is dried out discs. When humans are firstborn, the discs in their spine are made of 80% water. Since they are made primarily of water, they absorb shock very well. As people age, their discs begin to dry out. Therefore, they are not able to absorb shock. As time goes on, this can lead to damage in the discs, and thus pain. It also explains why a majority of people have some signs of degenerative disc disease by their sixties.

2. Daily Wear and Tear

           Daily wear and tear is another cause of degenerative disc disease. As people go through life, their bodies experience normal wear and tear. This can be caused by running, jumping, lifting heavy objects, etc. Over time, this wear and tear can cause micro-damages to the discs in the spine. Over time, these small damages add up and contribute to degenerative disc disease, which in turn can cause pain in some patients.

3. Injury

           Injury is the last common reason patients may experience degenerative disc disease. It is already known that the body breaks down over time. However, when this is compounded with injury, it only makes matters worse. Injuries of the spine, which leave it swollen, soreness, and instability can generate lower back pain and lead to more advanced degenerative disc disease.

           While people cannot change the fact that they are getting older every day, they can take steps to make sure they are not unnecessarily hard on their bodies. Minimizing the weight you lift every day, lifting weight in the proper manner (with your legs and not back), and avoiding situations that may lead to back injuries can all help prevent the progression or severity of degenerative disc disease. While there is no cure for the condition, recent research shows that stem cell therapy from stem cell treatment Scottsdale AZ can greatly help those who are in pain due to the condition. This can give patients a much better quality of life, and overall happiness, thus improving their lives.