Disc degeneration is one of the painful realities that come with age. It occurs when our discs—the gel-filled pads between the vertebrae that act as shock absorbers—desiccate or lose their natural hydration and start to break down, thus the term “degeneration.” If you’ve entered middle age and wondering if the back pain you’re wincing at…
Archives for January 2022
Can You Damage a Spinal Fusion?
The results of any type of surgery can be undone if you don’t take care of yourself in the proper ways. If you follow your spine surgeon’s recommendations and your physical therapist’s protocol of continued exercises and stretches, your spinal fusion results should actually improve over the years. Generally, the more closely you follow your…
I Am Dealing with Spinal Disc Pain. What Could This Mean?
Experts estimate that up to 80 percent of adults in the United States have experienced back pain. Your spinal discs are between vertebrae. These spinal discs are rubbery pads, acting as a cushion between the bones of your spinal column. Over the course of regular activity — office work, sports, or even inactivity — the…
Lumbar Herniated Disc: When Should You See an Orthopedic Doctor?
The lumbar region of your spine, commonly known as your lower back, has five rubbery pads between the vertebrae known as discs. They play three crucial functions: they cushion your vertebrae; support your upper body; and allow your back to do a range of movements, such as bending, flexing, and twisting. As you age, your…