Relationship of Spinal Disc Degeneration & Ankle Pain

People are more susceptible to disc or cartilage degeneration and ankle pain as they get older. Disc degeneration is caused by wear and tear and other conditions such as osteoarthritis. Lumbar discs in the lower back can lose their fluid and ability to act as shock absorbers, according to Webmed.com.

Identification

• A doctor must properly diagnose a person's lumbar region to determine whether or not a person has disc degeneration. Ankle pain is usually caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve from disc degeneration.

Types of Symptoms

• Sciatic nerve pain from a degenerative disc can shoot down the legs and buttocks to the ankles and feet. The pain can pulsate or throb periodically throughout the day. A person may also experience tingling or numbness in the legs, ankles or feet.

Effects

• In addition to the sciatic nerve, degenerative disc ankle pain can be caused by pressure between the L-4 or L-5 lumbar discs. Nerves in this area control the muscles of elevation at the foot and ankle.

Significance

• People who have disc degeneration and ankle pain from sciatica should rest their back to prevent further aggravation of their injury.

Considerations

• A person can use ice and anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen to reduce the initial swelling, inflammation and pain of a degenerative disc. Later, exercise can help strengthen the lower back muscles, which can increase stability in the spine.