Degenerative changes in the disc occur in all individuals by the age of 50. These changes are due to natural alterations in the binding of water in the disc. Twenty year olds have discs weighing 85% water; seventy year olds have discs weighing 60% water. This progressive dehydration is recognized as degeneration. All anatomic areas are involved: cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back) and lumbar (low back). As a consequence of these changes, a cascade of events may lead to disc space narrowing, bone spur formation, etc. Symptoms from degenerative disc disease are axial pain (neck, mid-back, low back) or referred pain (shoulder, shoulder blade, chest wall, buttocks, groin). Occasionally, the changes from the degenerative disc process produces pressure on the spinal nerves or spinal cord resulting in symptoms in the extremities.

Cervcial Disc Degeneration
Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease

Thoracic Disc Degeneration
Thoracic Degenerative Disc Disease

Lumbar Disc Degeneration
Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease