Neck pain is not uncommon among adults. Even younger people can experience soreness or irritation in this part of the body. Issues such as sleeping in an awkward position, repetitive motion or a minor injury can cause the pain. Often, these feelings do not stick around long or cause lasting damage. Unfortunately, more serious conditions can cause severe pain and won’t go away without consistent treatment or even surgery. Degenerative disc disease is a condition you should pay attention to. It may require the help of a professional to overcome it.
An Overview
In between the vertebrae of your spine are discs. They act as shock absorbers to help your back remain flexible as you twist, bend and move in other ways. As you age, the effects of time and excessive wear may begin to take their toll. When this occurs, the discs may not do their job effectively, and the strain on the back will begin to hurt more. When the discs are worn out, degenerative disc disease results.
Symptoms
If you have this disease, you may have constant pain in your back and neck. You can try other positions while sitting or lying down, but nothing may relieve the discomfort. Pain can radiate to the lower back and into the buttocks and down into the legs and feet. The pain is especially severe when you bend or twist. You may even begin to feel numbness and tingling in your arms and legs. This can lead to muscle weakness as well.
How To Avoid It
If you are cautious and aware, you can minimize your chances of getting degenerative disc disease. Sitting and standing in a proper posture is a good practice. It is especially helpful if you sit at a desk all day. If you work in an office, get up every hour or so and move around. Also, make sure you stretch well before working out.
How To Treat It
Fortunately, there are effective ways to treat degenerative disc disease. Simply taking over-the-counter pain medication such as Tylenol or Ibuprofen can lessen the pain. You may need something stronger, so your doctor can prescribe a drug. A steroid injection can also give you relief. Another approach is to try physical therapy or to go to the chiropractor for an adjustment. For the most serious cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage.
Stop putting off treatment for degenerative disc disease. Visit your chiropractor, like Back Pain Doctor today, and get the right help for your condition.