Degenerative Back Diseases

The backbone, or spine, is made up of 24 vertebrae. It is separated into four regions called the cervical, thoracic, lumbar and pelvic. Degenerative joint diseases, including those that occur in the back, happen when the joints that are responsible for movement deteriorate because of wear and tear.

Basics

• The vertebrae are positioned on top of each other and are separated by discs that are rubbery in texture. These function to provide support and absorb shock during movement. On the other hand, facet joints provide the ability for movement by allowing for rotation. Degeneration occurs when the facet joints no longer align correctly, and the fluid found in between the joints lessen. When these circumstances occur, the bones tend to hit against each other and cause pain.

Osteoarthritis

• Osteoarthritis is a term used to identify a group of diseases and abnormalities that occur in the joints. The symptoms include pain, tenderness and inflammation in the joints. In some situations, a person may experience creaking and locking of the joints. Some of the most common causes include genetics and accidents that can lead to damage to the cartilage that lubricates and supports the joints. What characterizes osteoarthritis is that when the bones are exposed because of the deterioration of the cartilage, it may promote the growth of reactive bone, a process called abumation, and cause more pain.

Spondylosis

• Spondylosis is defined as the degeneration of the rubber-like discs found in between the vertebrae. It can be detected through an x-ray when the space usually found in between the bones lessens. When spondylosis occurs, the disc is likely to experience herniation and cause pain in the back. Treatment of spondylosis is usually done by application of a warm compress as well as medication to treat pain and inflammation. Rehabilitative exercises may also alleviate pain. A study by the YMCA showed that regular stretching reduced back pain in nearly 80 percent of the participants.

Disc Herniation

• When the spinal disc found in between the vertebrae bulges, it can lead to disc herniation. Disc herniation is one of the most common causes of constant lower back pain in adults. When the discs are damaged, the spinal cord and the nerves found in the back are compressed. Bulging can occur to the point that the central area of the disc, which is composed of a soft, jelly-like material, ruptures. This is called a disc prolapse.

Spinal Stenosis

• Another degenerative back disease is called spinal stenosis, which is a condition characterized by the appearance of calcium deposits in the ligaments of the back. This leads to the narrowing of the spinal canal and can lead to an increase of pressure on the spinal cord or any of the surrounding nerves. Spinal stenosis is usually caused by infection, tumors and accidents.