Spinal Degenerative disc disease
The spinal column is made up of the intervertebral discs that sit between the individual spinal vertebrae. They exist to absorb impact (like a shock absorber) and to prevent bone rubbing on bone. Each has a tough outer shell which contains a soft, often described as jelly-like substance, which is primarily made up of water. As the person gets older, the water content decreases and they can become dehydrated making them more susceptible to injury from the Spinal degeneration.
The outer layer of the discs can become thinner through wear and tear, (degeneration) or in some circumstances can even tear. These tears can cause the inner substance to leak out into the surrounding structures (Prolapse) which may cause pressure to be put on the nerves, alternatively, the nerves may begin to grow in and around the tear of the shell and invade the inner discal space causing further pain.
Either can cause the nerves to become irritated and inflamed. Pain can be chronic with periods of heightened levels, and can usually be helped by keeping mobile so as to relieve pressure of the nerves. Long periods of sitting such as working at your desk or driving as well as standing can aggravate the nerves and increase pain. Lying down can help because the position relieves pressure off the spine.
In the event of nerve interference, pain can sometimes be felt down the legs, with numbness or tingling experiences. Giving up smoking is essential if suffering pain from Spinal degenerative disc disease. Oxygen levels and blood supply to the area can be compromised with the incidence of smoking. As degenerative discs are already at risk of dehydration, reducing the oxygen and nutrients supplied to this area by smoking will exacerbate symptoms further.
Spinal degeneration is also agravated by prolonged bending and stupping. Such as gardening, ironing, hoovering, and washing up.
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