Can a Herniated Disc Cause Degenerative Disc Disease?

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a term used to describe what occurs in the spinal discs as a person ages. The discs in our back begin to lose elasticity, flexibility and the ability to absorb shock as we age. Degenerative disc disease can affect many parts of the spine but usually attacks the lower back. There are many causes, including a herniated disc.

Fluid Loss

• If a person loses fluid in her discs, the discs lose the ability to absorb shock. The discs also become thinner, and the space between each vertebrae becomes more narrow.

Cracks

• If the outside of a disc becomes cracked, the material within the disc (which is almost jelly-like) will start to ooze through the cracks. This causes the disc to either bulge or break.

Herniated Disc

• A herniated disc is one cause of DDD. When a vertebrae is damaged, cushioning between the discs decreases. This makes the spine less stable.

Pressure

• If a person suffers from a herniated disc, bone spurs (a bone growth on normal bone) can put pressure on the spinal nerves.

Osteoarthritis

• When cartilage begins to disintegrate, the vertebrae can lose protection and cushioning within the discs.

Spinal Stenosis

• The tissue in the spine becomes thickened, which causes a narrowing of the spinal canal. Eventually, the tissues begin to deteriorate.