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Understanding age-related disc change

Degenerative disc disease

Spinal discs naturally change over time. These changes are common and do not always cause pain. Care focuses on the relationship between symptoms, function, examination, and imaging.

A healthy disc with normal height and a hydrated center compared with a less hydrated disc with reduced height. These changes do not always cause pain.
A healthy disc with normal height and a hydrated center compared with a less hydrated disc with reduced height. These changes do not always cause pain. View full-size image ↗

What to know

  • ✓The word “degenerative” does not mean symptoms must worsen.
  • ✓Movement and progressive conditioning are often important.
  • ✓Surgery is considered only for selected problems and goals.

Information, not a diagnosis.
Your symptoms deserve an individual evaluation. If pain is severe, worsening, or accompanied by new weakness, seek medical care.

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