Degenerative Disc Disease
Is your neck paining? Do you have a severe pain that affects your daily life? Visit our clinics at Etobicoke, Mississauga and Clarkson GO to find out more about Degenerative Disc Diseases
What is Spondylosis?
Spondylosis aka Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition in which the intervertebral discs that cushion the vertebrae in the spine begin to deteriorate over time. The intervertebral discs are composed of a gel-like center (nucleus pulposus) and a tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus), and their deterioration can result in a variety of symptoms.
DDD can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, genetics, and repetitive stress or injury to the spine. As the discs degenerate, they lose their ability to absorb shock and distribute pressure evenly, which can lead to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility.
Some common symptoms of DDD include:
- Pain in the back, neck, or buttocks
- Stiffness in the spine
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- Weakness in the arms or legs
- Difficulty standing or walking for extended periods of time
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (in severe cases)
Treatment for DDD can be done by undertaking physiotherapy routines, and lifestyle modifications. The goal of treatment is to manage pain and maintain function, so as to improve the quality of life and Prevent the worsening or happening again .
What are the causes of Degenerative Disc Disease?
DDD is believed to be a combination of many factors, including:
- Age: The risk of developing DDD increases with age as the intervertebral discs lose their water content and become less flexible.
- Genetics : Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to developing DDD.
- Repetitive stress: Repetitive stress or trauma to the spine, such as from heavy lifting or sports, can lead to the development of DDD.
- Poor posture: Poor posture, such as sitting or standing for long periods of time in a slouched position, can put stress on the spine and contribute to the development of DDD.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese puts additional stress on the spine and can increase the risk of developing DDD.
- Smoking: Smoking has been linked to the development of DDD, as it reduces blood flow to the spine and inhibits the delivery of nutrients to the intervertebral discs.
While these factors can increase the risk of developing DDD, it's important to note that not everyone who has these risk factors will develop the condition. Additionally, there may be other factors that contribute to the development of DDD that are not yet fully understood.
How can physiotherapy help in Degenerative Disc Disease?
Physiotherapist is a primary health care provider and is an effective treatment approach for managing and improving degenerative disc disease (DDD). A physiotherapist at alleviate physiotherapy can develop a personalized treatment plan to help alleviate symptoms and improve function, as well as provide education on proper body mechanics and lifestyle modifications to manage the condition.
Here are some ways that physiotherapy can help with DDD:
- Manual therapy : Manual therapy techniques such as massage,MFR, MET, Demoneuro modulation, joint mobilization,MWM, PNF and stretching can help to alleviate pain and stiffness, improve joint mobility, and promote healing.
- Education : A physiotherapist can educate individuals on proper posture and body mechanics to avoid exacerbating symptoms, as well as provide guidance on modifying daily activities to reduce strain on the spine.
- Exercises : A physiotherapist can prescribe specific exercises to help improve mobility, strength, and flexibility of the spine and surrounding muscles. These exercises can help to reduce pain and improve function.
- Modalities : Modalities such as Cold laser or ice therapy, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation can be used by physiotherapists to relieve pain and promote healing.
- Traction : Traction therapy can help to decompress the spine, reduce pressure on the intervertebral discs, and improve spinal alignment.
Physiotherapy can help manage the symptoms of DDD and improve function, thereby enhancing quality of life for individuals with this condition.
Physiotherapy is the first line of conservative approach for all Musculoskeletal conditions in Canada.You don’t have to wait to see the Physiotherapist. Physiotherapists can guide clients in their treatment by finding out the root cause of their condition through assessments.
At Alleviate Physiotherapy, our goal is to help clients relieve their pain, improve mobility, and prevent a re-injury. We believe in personalized treatment plans that take into account our client’s specific needs and goals for them to lead a pain free life, with better mobility.
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Degenerative Disc Disorders can be life altering because of the pain. Come find the perfect care for your neck and spine with our Top Rated Therapists that are trained to help you recover faster. Check out our operating hours at our locations.
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