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The spine is composed of a variety of structures and tissues. The disc (or intervetebral disc) is a structure
that is found in between the spinal vertebral bodies from the neck to the sacrum. The disc serves as a cushion
or a shock absorber and helps the spine to move. There are a total of twenty-three vertebral discs in the spinal
column.
As we age, the water and protein content of the body's cartilage changes. This change results in weaker, more
fragile cartilage. Because both the discs and the joints that stack the vertebrae (facet joints) are partly
composed of cartilage, these areas are subject to wear and tear over time (degenerative changes). While this
is a natural aging process, in some individuals, as the disc degenerates it can become painful. A person with
degenerative disc disease is more prone to disc bulges or herniation.
Physical therapy can help relieve the pain, teach proper body mechanics to reduce risk of disc herniation,
and design a personalized stretching/strengthening program that is safe and effective. Additional options
include traction, manual therapy and _modalities. These can be using in various combinations depending
on the patient.
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