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Degenerative Disc MRI Image

By: Mel Joelle

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Degenerative Disc Disease is not an actual disease, but a common symptom cluster due to changes that occur in the back associated with the aging process. It is common in otherwise healthy people in their thirties and forties.

The discs are the fluid filled sacks that separate the bones that make up the spine (the vertebrae). They act as shock absorbers, and allow the spine to twist. As we age, the fluid within the discs begins to dry out. Over time, due to deterioration, the discs may bulge out abnormally, or even tear. Should a disc rupture and the liquid within squeeze out, it is referred to as a "herniated disc." Discs do not have the ability to heal themselves, so once injured, they can continue to cause problems for the rest of the patients life. This age-related deterioration of the discs is referred to as Degenerative Disc Disease.

The discs that are most commonly damaged occur in the neck (the cervical region) or the lower back (the lumbar region). Pain may increase when performing activities that stress the back, such as lifting or twisting. Pain is often experienced as being worse when sitting or standing for long periods of time. It tends to decrease when walking or running, even. Sufferers may also complain of a loss of flexibility in the back.

Symptoms associated with lumbar disc damage are akin to those associated with other types of lower back pain. Pain may occur in the lower back, potentially radiating to the buttocks, and even the thighs. If a nerve is compressed, numbness, tingling, or weakness may be felt in the legs.

Symptoms associated with cervical disc damage include pain in the neck that may radiate through the shoulders and arms. If a nerve is affected, numbness, tingling, or weakness may be felt in these general areas.

Although almost everyones back will experience some age related changes (wear and tear), not everyone will develop Degenerative Disc Disease.

Some risk factors for developing Degenerative Disc Disease include:

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Obesity
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Smoking
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Years of Heavy Lifting
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Athletic Activities
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Previous Back injury

Typically Degenerative Disc Disease is treated with ice or heat, NSAIDs, and sometimes, physical therapy. Surgery is rarely recommended.

Patients with symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease may wonder if MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is warranted. Due to its amazing imaging capabilities, it can, in fact, be very helpful when seeking a diagnosis.

Some facilities are equipped to output MRI images digitally, and so speed up communication, and hence diagnosis.

Much more can be seen using MRI than with the standard X-ray. Joints and the surrounding soft tissue can be observed in detail. Even blood flow can be seen, should the doctor wish to view it.

With MRI images, doctors can spot changes in the spine, such as narrowing of the spaces between the vertebrae. They are able to see herniations or other changes in the discs themselves. It may even be possible to verify whether nerves are being compressed by the damaged discs.

Article Source: http://depositarticles.com/

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