Intervertebral disc degeneration

The term “intervertebral disc degeneration” describes a process of wear and tear on the intervertebral discs. Over time, the discs lose their functionality due to aging or prolonged strain. This means that the intervertebral discs, which consist of an elastic, gelatinous core and a firm fibrous ring, can no longer fulfil their function as shock absorbers and movement and stress buffers for the spine. This causes a loss of height in the intervertebral disc, which can cause the spine to lose stability and tension. This also increases the strain on the intervertebral discs and can lead to tears. Intervertebral disc degeneration can promote a herniated disc and is therefore considered a precursor to it. The following changes are observed in intervertebral disc degeneration: reduced number of disc cells, cell changes, reduced water content, loss of elasticity, tears, and, not infrequently, calcium deposits. The height of the intervertebral discs is reduced and bone spurs form at the edge of the vertebrae and in the nerve exit hole (neuroforamen), which can also lead to stenosis.

What causes the degeneration of lumbar intervertebral discs?

In addition to aging, other factors can also cause intervertebral disc degeneration. These include mechanical stress that can develop over many years because of physical work or intensive sports. Furthermore, genetic predispositions, such as a hereditary weakness of the disc tissue, can cause intervertebral disc degeneration. Chronic poor posture, for example due to sedentary activities, injuries and trauma can also increase pressure on the discs. The degeneration of lumbar intervertebral discs is more likely than intervertebral disc degeneration in the thoracic or cervical spine, since the lumbar spine carries most of the back’s weight.

Symptoms of disc degeneration and a herniated disc

The symptoms of intervertebral disc degeneration can be divided into different stages. Early symptoms may manifest as back pain, which can occur especially after prolonged strain or when standing up. This may be accompanied by stiffness in the spine.

If the disc degeneration is more advanced and causes a protrusion or a herniated disc, radiating pain, restricted movement, and sensory disturbances may occur. If a herniated disc occurs in the lumbar spine, the pain can shoot down into the leg due to irritated nerves and sometimes cause sensory disturbances and paralysis. Typical symptoms of a herniated disc generally include restricted movement in the spine, numbness, muscle weakness, or tingling.

If intervertebral disc degeneration remains untreated, it can lead to long-term consequences such as disc protrusion, spondylarthrosis, or spinal canal stenosis. To avoid this, diagnosis and subsequent treatment are important. Conservative measures such as physical and occupational therapy as well as pain therapy are intended to strengthen the back muscles, establish back-friendly movement patterns, and relieve pain. If the intervertebral disc degeneration has developed into a herniated disc, surgery may be necessary to remove the damaged disc tissue or stabilize the spine with implants.