Have you ever felt a sharp pain in your neck after a long day at work and wondered, “Is this normal or should I be worried?” Many of us ignore these signals from our bodies, thinking they are simply a result of stress or fatigue.
But what if it’s something more serious, like cervical disc degeneration in the neck? Knowing what makes this condition worse is the key to managing it. When it comes to degenerative disc disease in the neck, there are certain things that experts strongly advise you to avoid.
This health problem affects many people and affects not only pain but also daily life. Imagine not being able to turn your head without feeling sharp pain, or having to miss out on your favorite activities because your neck doesn’t move properly. That’s the reality for people dealing with degenerative disc disease.
But don’t lose hope! Read on to find out what to avoid with degenerative disc disease and how to effectively manage it and take control of your health.
What is degenerative disc disease?
It is a disease that affects the intervertebral discs of the spine. As we age, these discs can wear out and cause pain. This wear and tear is called degenerative disc disease.
Now, degenerative disc disease can occur in different parts of the spine. The main types are degenerative disc disease of the cervical, lumbar, and thoracic spine. Let’s explain a little about what each of these means.
- Cervical degenerative disc disease: This type affects the neck area. If you’ve ever had neck pain that made it difficult to turn your head, this could be the cause. Your neck may also become stiff, limiting the amount you can move your neck.
- Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease: This type targets the lower back region. Many of us have probably experienced back pain at least once. Well, if it’s related to lumbar disc degeneration, that could mean the discs in your lower back are wearing out. This can make sitting for long periods of time, bending at the waist, and even walking painful.
- Thoracic degenerative disc disease: This affects the mid-back area. The other type is less common than the two types, but can still cause pain and discomfort near the mid-back.
Knowing which symptoms you are dealing with can be the first step to better managing them.
Symptoms and diagnosis of degenerative disc disease
A great place to start understanding what’s going on with your back and neck is by knowing the symptoms of degenerative disc disease (DDD). This symptom does not appear overnight.
One common misconception is that pain and discomfort are constant. However, in reality, symptoms can come and go. Symptoms may worsen after doing certain activities or sitting or standing for long periods of time. This is why it is important to know what to avoid with degenerative disc disease in the neck. Helps manage pain and prevent it from getting worse.
But how do doctors determine if someone has DDD?
- Your doctor may start with a physical exam to check where your pain is and how well you can move.
- Next, we often use imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan. These tests are very useful for looking inside the body and can show degenerative changes in the thoracic spine or degeneration in the lumbar discs. These changes give doctors clues as to where the problem is and its severity.
Please also read: Don’t ignore a slipped disc
Treatment for degenerative disc disease
Treatment for degenerative disc disease often follows diagnosis. The goal here is not only to treat degenerative disc disease, but to improve quality of life.
- Physical therapy includes exercises to strengthen your back and core muscles and increase spinal stability.
- occupational therapy We can teach you ergonomic and postural techniques to minimize strain on your spine during daily activities.
For acute pain, treatment may include heat or ice therapy, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound therapy. Spinal decompression therapy may be helpful in advanced cases.
Pain management strategies often incorporate nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and sometimes corticosteroid injections.
Medical treatment for degenerative disc disease
When managing DDD, treatments are broadly divided into nonsurgical and surgical options, each tailored to the severity of the disease and its impact on the patient’s daily life.
1. Non-surgical treatment
Initially, doctors prefer non-surgical methods that focus on pain management and improving mobility. Physical therapy is essential and aims to strengthen the muscles around the spine to provide more support and reduce pressure on the discs.
Pain relief may also be achieved with medications such as NSAIDs to reduce inflammation and pain. Therapeutic injections, such as epidural injections, temporarily relieve symptoms by applying steroids or anesthetics directly around the affected area.
2. Surgical treatment
Surgery is considered if conservative treatments do not improve symptoms or if the disease progresses significantly.
The main surgical procedures include:
- Discectomy: A common procedure to relieve pressure on the nerves caused by herniated discs that often accompany DDD. This includes removing the damaged part of the disc. Techniques range from traditional open surgery to minimally invasive microdiscectomy.
- Artificial disc replacement: Aimed at preserving spinal mobility, this surgery involves replacing the damaged disc with an artificial disc. It is especially considered for younger patients to maintain joint range of motion and prevent adjacent site disease associated with fusion surgery.
- Spinal fusion: This surgery is recommended when there is significant degeneration or instability. This procedure fixes adjacent vertebrae, eliminating movement between them and reducing pain, but it also limits the spine’s natural flexibility.
Recovery from surgical treatment often depends on the extent of the surgery and the individual’s overall health. Some people return to daily life within a few weeks, while others require months of rehabilitation.
What to avoid with degenerative disc disease
Managing degenerative disc disease often requires being mindful of your daily activities and exercise habits. Here is a list of things to especially avoid:
- Lifting heavy objects: Lifting heavy objects can put extra stress on your spine.
- High-impact sports: Activities like running and basketball can put shock into your spine, making your pain worse.
- Repetitive bending or twisting: Movements that put the spine in extreme positions can make symptoms worse.
- Sitting for long periods of time: Sitting in the same position for long periods of time can stiffen your spine and increase pain.
When it comes to exercise, some activities are more effective than others. Exercises to avoid degenerative disc disease in the neck include those that put stress on the neck or require sudden movements, but some are beneficial.
The best exercises for degenerative disc disease usually include gentle stretching and strengthening exercises that support the spine without adding stress. Exercises that promote flexibility and strengthen the upper back are especially helpful for people with degenerative changes in the thoracic spine.
It is important to consult your health care provider or physical therapist before starting any new exercises for degenerative disc disease. We can recommend a safe and effective routine for your specific situation.
nutrition and diet
With degenerative disc disease, there are certain foods to avoid that can worsen symptoms.
Let’s look at it in detail. When thinking about what to avoid with degenerative disc disease, remember to limit foods high in sugar and fat. They contribute significantly to weight gain, which is not good for this condition.
However, some people’s symptoms worsen when they eat inflammatory foods such as beans and grains. Nutrition is important, so pay attention to the state of your body after consumption.
Another thing to consider is processed foods that contain chemicals and additives that can cause inflammation.
Instead, focus on eating lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. These foods are not only good for your spine, but also for your overall health.
Foods to eat and avoid with degenerative disc disease
Management of degenerative disc disease (DDD) includes dietary adjustments to reduce inflammation and support spinal health. You should focus on anti-inflammatory foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
Leafy greens, berries, and nuts provide essential nutrients for strong bones.
Conversely, foods to avoid with degenerative disc disease include processed foods, sugar, and trans fats, which can worsen inflammation and pain. Limiting red meat and full-fat dairy products can reduce recurrence.
Adequate fluid intake maintains the elasticity of the intervertebral discs, so it’s important to stay hydrated. A balanced diet can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of DDD.
physical activity guidelines
Staying active is important, especially if you’re dealing with degenerative disc disease (DDD). But knowing which behaviors are helpful and which can be harmful is the key to effectively managing your symptoms.
Exercises to avoid with degenerative disc disease in the neck
- Lifting heavy weights above your head puts too much unnecessary pressure on your neck.
- High-impact sports: Sports that involve sudden changes in direction or jumps can put undue stress on the neck.
- Driving on hard surfaces: Too much impact is bad for the disc.
- Straighten your legs and do sit-ups: This puts a lot of pressure on both your lower back and neck.
Best exercises for degenerative disc disease: what to choose and why
- Walking: Low impact, easy speed adjustment. Helps maintain a healthy spine.
- Swimming and water aerobics: The buoyancy of water supports your body and reduces stress on your spine and neck.
- Yoga and Pilates: The main focus is on stretches that keep your muscles flexible without hurting your back or neck like other exercises.
- Stationary Bike: Get a great cardio workout without straining your back.
Incorporating exercises suitable for degenerative disc disease into your daily life can go a long way in managing your symptoms.
Alternative treatments and support
One frequently asked question is, “Can a chiropractor help treat degenerative disc disease?” The answer is yes, but only partially.
In some cases, chiropractic care can relieve pressure on nerves and improve spinal alignment. However, before trying anything new, be sure to check with your doctor to make sure it’s safe for your condition.
Complementary therapies may also have a positive impact in the management of degenerative disc disease. Practices such as massage therapy, acupuncture, and yoga can all help relieve pain and increase flexibility.
Continue your medical treatment and treatment plan for degenerative disc disease as recommended by your doctor while considering these alternative treatments.
What causes multistage degenerative disc disease?
This condition is not caused by one factor. It’s a combination of aging and the natural wear and tear on your spine. It may also be due to genetic predisposition.
Risk factors and ways to prevent them include poor posture, lack of exercise, smoking, and obesity. The best way to combat these risks is to adopt a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and practicing good posture.
Early intervention and adoption of prevention strategies can help manage symptoms of degenerative disc disease and improve quality of life.
Treatment of degenerative disc disease is very important in managing this condition. Physical therapy treatments range from pain relief to surgery in more severe cases. The main goals here are pain relief and improved function.
final thoughts
Managing degenerative disc disease (DDD) requires attention to your daily activities, exercise habits, and overall lifestyle. Knowing what to avoid with degenerative disc disease can make a big difference in your comfort and ease of movement. It’s important to make smart choices that support your spinal health while avoiding actions that can worsen the condition.
If you have any questions about what is safe or right for your particular situation, consulting a medical professional is always a wise step.
