Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease

A spinal disc is the spacers between the bones, that acts as a shock absorber.  It is made up of a fibrous outer ring called the annulus fibrosus, and a jelly-like inner material called the nucleus pulposus.  It is the nucleus pulposus that acts as the primary shock absorber within the disc.  Over time, normal wear and tear can cause damage to the disc, reducing the amount of the nucleus pulposus and the overall height of the disc, which diminishes its ability to absorb forces.  The change in disc height can alter how the joints in the neck rub on one another, reduce space for where the nerves exit the spine, and the disc itself can becomes a source of pain. Irritation around the spine often leads to tightening of muscles, and joint stiffness, which further exacerbates the problem.  Physical therapy can help to reduce the associated symptoms, improve range of motion, and educate on spine care to maintain optimal spinal health.

Associated Symptoms:

  • Neck pain
  • Stiffness
  • Decreased range of motion
  • Radiating pain
  • Radiating numbness/tingling
  • Difficulty turning head
  • Headaches
  • Sensation of dizziness, lightheadedness, disequilibrium

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