Degenerative disk disease is a progressive condition in which spinal disks deteriorate. Surgery is an option, but less invasive treatments and therapies may also help.

Degenerative disk disease is a progressive condition that usually results from gradual wear and tear. It can also result from an injury.

The disks in your back are located in between the vertebrae of your spine. They act as cushions and shock absorbers. Disks help you stand up straight and perform everyday motions such as twisting and bending.

Over time, this condition can worsen. It can cause mild to extreme pain that may interfere with your daily activities.

Read on to learn more about degenerative disk disease. This article looks at the symptoms and causes, how doctors diagnose the condition, treatment options, and more.

Symptoms of degenerative disk disease usually affect your lower back or neck.

Pain from degenerative disk disease may:

  • be mild or severe
  • come and go
  • extend to your arms, hands, buttocks, and thighs
  • worsen when you’re sitting
  • worsen after movement such as lifting, bending, or twisting
  • result in foot drop or weakness in your leg muscles

Learn more about lower back pain.

Degenerative disk disease is primarily caused by wear and tear of spinal disks. Over time, disks naturally dry out and lose their ability to function properly.

This can lead to pain and other symptoms. Most people will have some disk degeneration by 40 years of age, but they may not always experience pain.

This condition can also be caused by injury and overuse, which may result from sports or repetitive activities.

If you have symptoms of degenerative disk disease, a doctor may begin by performing a physical examination and asking questions about your symptoms.

To assist them in reaching an accurate diagnosis, a doctor may order tests such as:

Imaging tests can show damaged disks and help rule out other causes.

Home remedies and medical treatments can help manage symptoms of degenerative disk disease.

Heat or cold therapy

Cold packs can help decrease pain associated with a damaged disk, while heat packs can reduce the inflammation that causes pain.

Over-the-counter medications

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help relieve pain. Ibuprofen (Advil) can minimize pain and decrease inflammation.

Both medications can cause side effects if you take them with other medications, so ask your doctor which one is most appropriate for you.

Prescription pain relievers

If over-the-counter pain relievers don’t work, you might consider prescription versions. Your doctor can advise you on which prescription pain relievers may be best for you and inform you of any risks these medications carry.

Physical therapy

If you undergo physical therapy for degenerative disk disease, your therapist will guide you through routines that help strengthen your back muscles and relieve pain.

Over time, you’ll likely notice improvements in pain, posture, and overall mobility.

Exercise may complement other treatments for degenerative disk disease by strengthening the muscles that surround the damaged disks. It can also increase blood flow, which helps reduce swelling and increase the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the affected area.

It’s best to talk with your doctor or physical therapist about which exercises are right for you. They can teach you some exercises that you can do at home.

You may need to avoid certain movements, such as bending and twisting.

Surgery

Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor may recommend either an artificial disk replacement or a spinal fusion.

You may need surgery if your pain doesn’t resolve or if it gets worse. Artificial disk replacement involves replacing the damaged disk with a new one made from plastic and metal. Spinal fusion involves connecting the affected vertebrae as a means of strengthening.

Pain from degenerative disk disease can affect your ability to perform physical activities.

You might also experience complications from surgery, such as bleeding or infection. And symptoms of degenerative disk disease may come back after treatment.

You can talk with your doctor about how to manage the possible complications of degenerative disk disease and related procedures. Seeking medical advice as soon as you have concerns about the condition and starting suitable treatment as early as possible may help reduce the likelihood of complications.

Degenerative disk disease occurs when vertebral disks wear away over time. It can also result from injury or overuse, which may be due to sports or repetitive movements.

The condition can cause mild or severe pain that may come and go. Home remedies such as pain relievers and hot and cold packs can help you manage symptoms. In some cases, prescription-strength medications and surgery may be necessary.

Contact your doctor if you have concerns about degenerative disk disease. They may order imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis and can help you create a treatment plan to manage your symptoms.