disc degeneration
Spinal cushion breakdown
Disc degeneration is the gradual breakdown of the cushioning discs between vertebrae in the spine.
The discs lose hydration and elasticity over time, leading to reduced shock absorption, stiffness, and often chronic back or neck pain.
Nearly universal with aging, though severity varies: The MRI showed disc degeneration at L4-L5.
Also spelled disk degeneration.
- spineColumn of vertebrae
- spinal columnSegmented skeletal axis
- vertebraeInterlocking bones of spine
- herniatedAbnormally protruding through membrane
- bulgingSwelling outward visibly
chronic · backache · lumbar · lower back · cervical · cartilage · arthritis · stenosis · bone spur · sciatica · nerve compression · MRI · inflammation · aging · wear and tear · cushion · nerve · pinched
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