Can a Back Injury Accelerate Degenerative Disc Disease?

Back injuries are common and can subsequently cause misalignment's (commonly referred to as subluxations) of the vertebrae. When this occurs it can place undo strain and stress upon the spinal column. That can cause an inflammatory response and accelerate the deterioration of the spinal discs.

What is Degenerative Disc Disease?

• Most medical professionals now believe a degenerative disc condition is a normal process of growing older; as we age, the discs can lose some of their flexibility and can shrink in thickness.

The Degenerative Process

• If there is an injury or damage to a disc(s), this can further accelerate the degenerative process known as degenerative disc disease.

Causes of Degenerative Disc Disease

• Many factors contribute to the degenerative process, but most common explanations lay it on genetics as the contributing factor as to why some suffer with degenerative disc disease.

Discs of the Spine

• If too much strain is placed on a disc(s), the gel-like inner substance can be forced out, causing what is commonly referred to as a herniated disc, which can bring about an inflammatory response.

The Inflammatory Response

• The inflammatory response is our body's way of protecting us from further injury. However, in some situations--such as with pain issues--it can also cause further harm to our tissues and joints

Protecting your Spine

• Protecting our spine starts with knowing its limitations. Knowing how to lift properly, kneeling before lifting, and using the muscles of the thighs and buttocks can help you avoid a painful back injury.