Hey ,

Last week in class, Jan said,

"I know you don't believe in the degenerative disk disease."

To which I replied, 

"It's not that I don't believe in it. It's that it's not a disease."

This exchange wasn't the first or the only one I had with a student over the years about the "disk situation." I usually avoid such conversations, especially in class, because they can be long and involved. Classes are dedicated to learning through movement! 

Every once in a blue moon, though, I get inspired (or sufficiently annoyed by blatant misinformation from the media, commercials, and even our doctors) to write a post. 

Let's talk about our degenerating disks! 

It's time to dispel the most common misconceptions and drop the scary lingo that often surrounds them. I hope the information below can empower you to make modern science-informed decisions about your health.

Before we delve into this lively subject, I want to let you know that today's post is the last one for a while. Good writing requires a fair bit of time and a lot of creative energy, and summer is when I recharge my batteries. Plus, I want to dig in my garden and watch the birds!

I'll reach out sometime in late July - early August for the fall yoga class registrations. Now let's get to those disks!

Common Misconceptions About Degenerative Disc Disease: 

Current pain research strongly supports that what is often labelled "degenerative disc disease" (DDD) is, in fact, a normal part of the aging process rather than a distinct pathological condition. Yup, you've read it right. Here is the list of the most common misconceptions:

Myth: It's a Disease. 

Fact: Despite its name, Degenerative Disc Disease is not a disease. It's a term to describe the natural, age-related changes in spinal discs over time.

As Dr. Gregory Lopez, an orthopedic spine surgeon, explains, "The normal process by which discs change as we age is simply called 'degeneration.' So everyone experiences it to some degree during their lifetime".

Studies consistently show that degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs are widespread as people age. For example, about 90% of people over age 60 have some degree of disc degeneration. Even in younger adults, mild degeneration is often present; one study found disc changes in people as young as their 20s.

Imaging studies support these findings. For instance, a study using CT scans found that one-third of people aged 40–59 had moderate to severe degenerative disc disease, and only a small percentage of those had symptoms.

Myth: Degeneration Causes Pain. 

Fact: Most disc degeneration has no symptoms. While disc degeneration is universal, not everyone develops symptoms.

Studies show that around 37% of 20-year-olds and 80% of 50-year-olds have degenerative changes on MRI, but do not have pain or any other associated symptoms.

Many people with significant disc degeneration on MRI or CT scans remain asymptomatic. Degeneration alone does not guarantee pain, suggesting other factors, such as genetics, inflammation, and individual pain sensitivity, play a role. 

Myth: MRI Findings Predict Pain Severity.

Fact: There is no direct correlation between MRI severity and pain intensity. Some with severe degeneration feel no pain, while others with mild changes experience chronic discomfort. 

This particular one can be hard to wrap our brains around. I am contemplating writing a separate post on this subject sometime in the fall. , let me know if you are interested!

Imaging findings such as disc bulging, signal loss, and height loss increase steadily with age and are present in most adults, even those without back pain.

Disc degeneration increases with age, with over 80% of people over 50 showing degeneration-related changes. However, only about 5% of adults develop back pain directly attributed to these changes.

Myth: Surgery Is the Only Treatment. 

Fact: Conservative treatments like movement, strengthening, and physical therapy, as well as addressing stress and improving sleep and diet, are the first and most effective line of treatment. Surgery is only considered if other methods fail.

Myth: Rest Is the Best Solution.

Fact: Sedentary habits worsen symptoms. Low-impact exercise (e.g., swimming, walking) strengthens supportive muscles and improves flexibility.

Myth: It Only Affects the Elderly.

Fact: Degeneration can start as early as the 20s. Abnormal spinal biomechanics (e.g., misalignment) accelerate wear, making DDD possible at any age.

Myth: Degeneration Means Inevitable Decline.

Fact: Progression varies widely. Many manage symptoms effectively with lifestyle adjustments, physical therapy, and pain management.

Modern Science Perspective: 

Most spine health experts agree that changes in spinal discs are a natural, normal, expected part of aging, not a disease process unique to specific individuals.

The term "degenerative disc disease" is misleading, as it implies an abnormal or inevitably progressive condition, when in fact, these changes are seen in nearly everyone as they age.

While some individuals may experience symptoms, disc degeneration on imaging is common and usually reflects the natural wear and tear of living, not a pathological disease state.

The label "disease" persists due to tradition, though many scientists now advocate for more precise and less fear-mongering terminology.

My concern? 

Words! 

Words have incredible power in shaping our perception of health. What if we become more mindful of the terminology we use and hear?

Try saying to yourself: "I have degenerative disk disease."

Now, switch it to, "I have normal, age-related disc changes." 

Which one do you choose?

As always, with warmth and gratitude,