The spine is composed of numerous vertebra which serve as its bony skeleton. These vertebra are held together in the front of the spine, in part, by the intervertebral discs. This discs have a strong outer layer and soft, gelatinous material in the middle. They serve in part to absorb stress and strain on the spine and allow a broad range of movements. Unfortunately, for this same reason, the spine is subject to degeneration. Degenerative disc disease includes many parts. The central portion of the disc degenerates. Less fluid is present. It dries up and collapses somewhat in height. It is not capable of absorbing stresses on the spine as well as it did earlier. The outer layer of the disc, the annulus, weakens and splinters. Sometimes, the soft disc material within the center of the disc will rupture through the damaged annulus, producing a ruptured disc. As the disc ages, its attachments at the bone degenerate and often enlarge. They calcify and commonly produce bone spurs, or osteophytes. The normal anatomical balance of the spine gradually becomes altered as the discs degenerate.
Causes of Degenerative Disc Disease
Degeneration of the disc is caused by a combination of factors. The large molecules of the center of the disc material break down. They can no longer attract as many water molecules as before and the disc gradually dries out. The material does not function as before. The outer layer of the disc, the annulus fibrosis also ages, dries out and cracks. These degenerative changes, in part, induce hypertrophy or enlargement of some of the attachments of the disc and ligaments to the bone. Bone spurs are, accordingly, produced.
Signs and Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease
Loss of height is gradually noted over middle and later adult life. This occurs from narrowing of the discs. This narrowing, along with bone spurs or ruptured discs, can lead to compression of the nerves and spinal cord. This produces pain in the neck or back, weakness or numbness in the extremities and possible dysfunction of bowel and bladder function.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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