What happens when you have DDD?
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What happens when you have DDD?
Simply put, degenerative disc disease refers to symptoms of back or neck pain caused by wear-and-tear on a spinal disc. In some cases, degenerative disc disease also causes weakness, numbness, and hot, shooting pains in the arms or legs (radicular pain).
Is DDD serious?
Stage 4 is considered severe DDD because it is challenging or impossible to reverse in many cases. It may still be possible to treat the condition and improve your quality of life though. Typically, treatment will involve some physical activity and exercises to reduce pain levels.
What does DDD pain feel like?
Moderate, continuous low back pain. Painful aches at the site of a damaged disc is the most common symptom of a degenerative disc. Pain may spread to the buttocks, groin, and upper thighs. This pain typically feels achy, dull, and can range from mild to severe.
What stage is severe degenerative disc disease?
Stage 4. The final stage of degenerative disc disease is the most severe and is typically considered irreversible. Discs are at their thinnest or gone altogether. The flexibility of the spine is extremely limited and pain is often considerable.
Is degenerative disc disease a disability?
Degenerative Disc Disease, or DDD, is among the most common impairments for which the Social Security Administration (SSA) receives disability applications. While it is a qualifying disability under certain circumstances, proving your condition meets the SSA’s duration and severity level requirements can be difficult.
Does DDD require surgery?
Most cases of degenerative disc disease can be managed using nonsurgical methods, and do not require surgery for effective pain relief. Spinal surgery is always elective, meaning that it is the patient’s decision whether or not to undergo surgery.
How can I prevent my DDD from getting worse?
Preventing Degenerative Disc Disease
- Stop smoking, or better yet, don’t start — smoking increases the rate of desiccation.
- Be active – regular exercise to increase the strength and flexibility of muscles that surround and support the spine.
Can a chiropractor help with degenerative disc disease?
Chiropractic care is a preferred treatment option for degenerative disc disease for a variety of reasons. Because it is gentle and non-invasive, chiropractic is much less likely to create undesirable side effects—which are common with prescription medications and surgery.
Is DDD the same as arthritis?
Degenerative joint disease is just another name for osteoarthritis, which is the most common type of arthritis – and it occurs when the components of a joint wear down. So whether we call it degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis, or arthritis, we’re really talking about the same condition.
