Why you need physical therapy for degenerative disc disease

The name “degenerative disc disease” is a bit outdated, but the condition itself is not. That’s because degenerative disc disease (DDD) is not actually a disease, but is related to natural wear and tear that can affect the discs in your spine over time. This is a condition that affects many people today.

Degenerative disc disease is typically associated with osteoarthritis, a condition that wears down the bones in your body. With DDD, the discs in your spine grow weaker. These discs cushion the vertebrae to keep them from rubbing together and to absorb shock that could harm them. Whenever something like DDD causes injury or harm to these discs, you’ll experience pain in your back or neck near the disc’s location. This pain might limit your mobility and cause other problems.

Symptoms of DDD that you should be on the lookout for include:

• Severe pain in the lower back or neck
• Pain that radiates into your legs or into your neck and arms
• Pain that increases when bending or turning
• Pain increases when sitting

DDD is a chronic condition that can affect you for months at a time. When it goes away, it’s likely to return if you haven’t received treatment from a medical professional. That’s why many people with back pain caused by DDD choose to visit a physical therapist for treatment. 

Treating degenerative disc disease with physical therapy

Physical therapists specialize in treating conditions that affect your musculoskeletal system, which includes your spine and its vertebrae. Each of our treatments is personalized to your needs as an individual, but generally, you can expect your DDD treatment to include:

• Stretches and exercises
• Hands-on therapy
• Massage
• Hot and cold therapy
• Electrical stimulation

The main objectives of these treatments are to help you find relief and to improve your strength and mobility, which can help prevent pain in the future.

Contact Armor Physical Therapy for DDD treatment

Are you suffering from back or neck pain related to degenerative disc disease? Would you like to improve your quality of life with physical therapy from one of the physical therapists at Armor Physical Therapy? Contact us today to talk to one of our team members about your treatment options.