presser6,
Just a few words about degenerative disc disease. As Vickie mentioned, it is a VERY common problem. The discs between your vertebrae are normally soft and act as a cushion between these bones. Degenerative disc disease is a result of the normal aging process, and may not be the result of an acute trauma. Degeneration is common as the discs begin to have a slow loss of blood supply after the age of 30. Yes, age 30!! Their water content also diminishes which predisposes the discs to tears. With these changes the discs become less supple and the discs lose some of their height. This alters the position of the vertebrae and the ligaments that connect them which also allows the disks to tear more easily.
So, what should you do?? Read Vickie's post above a few times and then follow her directions to the other posts she mentioned. The temptation is to "rest". On the contrary, as she mentions, physical activity should actually be INCREASED , as overall physical fitness will help improve condition of your neck/back. Perhaps the single most important paragraph in Vickie's post was the one that begins with the sentence containing the phrase " the secret is not overtreating your neck." And , as she alludes to in her information, this is going to take some time----be patient and be persistent!!
Good luck. Dr Dave
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