"This is My Issue & My Health problem" (Degenerative Disc Disease) Over time, the spine can be stressed with daily motion and minor injuries that eventually create wear and tear on the intervertebral discs causing them to degenerate. The discs are designed similar to shock absorbers to handle pressure and impact, as well as act as a cushion during the body’s movement to keep the spine flexible. Their role is vital to preserving the vertebrae, as bones cannot sustain repeated stress without becoming damaged. In a healthy intervertebral disc, the soft, spongy center known as the nucleus pulposus contains a high level of water content allowing it to absorb stress. When excessive pressure or impact is incurred by the disc, the annulus (the tough outer ligament material that surrounds the nucleus and supports the vertebrae), is often the first portion of the disc to exhibit damage. Small tears in the ligament material are replaced with scar tissue as the body tries to heal itself. However, the scar tissue is not as strong as ligament and weakens the annulus. As the outer layer degenerates, the nucleus pulposus begins to loose water causing it to dry up. Due to water loss, the disc looses its capability to absorb stress and act as a cushion for spinal flexibility. This situation creates added stress, and the damage cycle becomes repetitive further tearing the annulus and causing the nucleus to collapse. As the disc compresses, the space between the vertebrae above and below it narrow. As the area becomes constricted, the facet joint, located at the back of the spine, can move out of position rendering the joint less operable. In addition to the lack of joint facilitation, bone spurs known as osteophytes may form around the disc space and the facet joint as the body’s response to impede excessive motion to the damaged area of the spine. The bone spurs can impair the spine if they grow into the spinal canal and press on the spinal cord and nerves. This condition is known as spinal stenosis.
Posted on: Sat, 17 Aug 2013 00:51:44 +0000
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