Degenerative disc disease is a progressive condition, which means that it tends to become more pronounced over time. This can happen relatively slowly, or it can escalate quickly — it all depends on your unique body.

Lifestyle changes for degenerative disc disease

Even though there’s no way to stop degenerative disc disease or reverse existing degeneration, it is possible to slow down the process of future degeneration. There are a number of simple lifestyle changes that can decrease the amount of stress that’s placed on your spine, helping protect the various components (such as the discs and the joints) from excess wear and tear. For instance, you can:

• Make low-impact cardio and gentle core exercises a part of your daily lifestyle
• Avoid tobacco products (or quit if you’re a current smoker)
• Maintain a weight that’s healthy for your body frame

These changes may help slow the progression of your degenerative disc disease, while also reducing the severity of your symptoms. Of course, you may still want to talk with a physician about treatment, such as medication, to help relieve inflammation in your spine.

Surgery for severe degenerative disc disease

If your condition is relatively minor, medication and some simple activity modifications may be all that you need to maintain your current lifestyle. As it progresses, however, you may need to incorporate other therapies, such as injections or physical therapy. If it becomes severe enough that you’re not able to keep up with your usual activities, you might also consider surgery as well.

Because traditional degenerative disc disease surgery can be difficult to recover from, it’s not ideal for everybody. But, you may be a candidate for minimally invasive surgery at USA Spine Care. Our outpatient procedures have a shorter recovery time than open back operations, as well as a lower complication rate.^ For more information or to request a free MRI review,* contact us today.

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