What does degenerative lumbar spine mean?

What does degenerative lumbar spine mean?

Degenerative disc disease in the lumbar spine, or lower back, refers to a syndrome in which age-related wear and tear on a spinal disc causes low back pain.

What is the best treatment for spinal degeneration?

Physical therapy can help stretch and strengthen the right muscles to help the back heal and reduce the frequency of painful flare-ups. Lifestyle modifications, such as changing your posture, losing weight or giving up smoking, can sometimes help reduce stress on the damaged disc and slow down further degeneration.

What is multilevel lumbar spine degenerative disc disease?

The “disease” is nothing more than the gradual deterioration and thinning of the shock-absorbing intervertebral discs in the spine. When it happens at multiple discs or levels throughout the spine, this is known as multilevel degenerative disc disease.

How do you fix lumbar degenerative disc disease?

Bed rest, or reduced activity, for the first 1 to 2 days after onset of severe pain, combined with anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen, and ice and/or heat therapy. Prescription muscle relaxant medications, as needed, for up to 1 week. Gentle stretching and aerobic exercise, for at least 3 times a week.

Is DDD a disability?

Degenerative Disc Disease, or DDD, is among the most common impairments for which the Social Security Administration (SSA) receives disability applications. While it is a qualifying disability under certain circumstances, proving your condition meets the SSA’s duration and severity level requirements can be difficult.

How is multilevel degenerative disc disease treated?

Treatment may include occupational therapy, physical therapy, or both, special exercises, medications, losing weight, and surgery. Medical options include injecting the joints next to the damaged disc with steroids and a local anesthetic. These are called facet joint injections. They can provide effective pain relief.

Does walking help degenerative disc disease?

Regular aerobic exercise, such as walking, swimming, or taking a low-impact aerobics class, has been shown to help relieve pain, promote a healthy body weight, and improve overall strength and mobility—all important factors in managing DDD.