Degenerative disc disease is a progressive spinal condition that can develop as a result of the wear and tear the spine endures through the years. If you are starting to experience back pain or other symptoms of degenerative disc disease, you may be wondering what you can do to slow it down.

While you may not be able to reverse any damage that has already occurred as a result of degenerative disc disease, the following lifestyle adjustments can help promote spinal health and slow down this condition:

• Adopt good posture. Whether sitting or standing, maintaining proper posture will help keep the spine aligned and prevent excess pressure from being placed on one particular area of the spine.
• Avoid tobacco products. Smoking or using other tobacco products can speed up the deterioration of the spinal discs.
• Eat a balanced diet. Having a healthy diet, staying hydrated and limiting alcohol consumption can help maintain the health of your spine and improve your overall wellbeing.
• Maintain a healthy body weight. Being overweight increases the load on the spinal discs, causing them to wear down faster. By losing excess weight, you can help alleviate the amount of pressure on the spine.
• Get regular exercise. In addition to helping you maintain a healthy weight, exercising regularly is a great way to reduce your degenerative disc disease symptoms.

Treatment for degenerative disc disease

Many individuals with degenerative disc disease are able to make lifestyle adjustments and explore other conservative treatments to manage their symptoms. However, for those whose symptoms become more severe, surgery may eventually need to be considered. USA Spine Care specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery and has performed more than 100,000 procedures to help patients find relief from degenerative disc disease and other spinal conditions.

If you are interested in outpatient surgery at USA Spine Care, we can provide you with a free MRI review* to determine if you are a candidate. For more information, contact us today.

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