What Are the Key Things to Avoid with Degenerative Disc Disease?

things-to-avoid-with-degenerative-disc-disease-e1722594850489.jpg

Each vertebra in your spine is cushioned by soft discs that act as shock absorbers, preventing your bones from grinding against each other. While some spinal discs remain strong throughout life, others may wear out or break down, leading to degenerative disc disease (DDD). This condition frequently occurs in older adults but can also affect younger individuals. If you’ve been diagnosed with DDD, it’s crucial to follow a suggested treatment plan and understand the symptoms.

Managing this condition effectively includes knowing the things to avoid with degenerative disc disease to prevent your back pain from worsening. This blog will guide you through understanding degenerative disc disease, recognising its symptoms, and learning about preventive measures and effective management strategies to enhance your quality of life.

What is Degenerative Disc Disease?

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition where the spinal discs, which are slippery cartilage discs situated between each vertebra, start to deteriorate or break down. This degeneration can cause the vertebrae to rub against each other, leading to significant back pain and other complications.

Common degenerative disc disease symptoms include:

Neck Pain: If the damaged disc is in the cervical region.
Lower Back Pain: If the affected disc is in the lumbar region.
Intermittent or Persistent Pain: This pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, shooting pains.
Tingling or Numbness: Radiating down your arms or legs, depending on the disc affected.

Even if degenerative disc disease itself isn’t physically limiting, your symptoms could become more severe over time due to the exposed and vulnerable vertebrae. This can disrupt your daily life, limiting your ability to move, work, and enjoy activities comfortably.

Dr Puneet Girdhar, Principal Director and Head of Spine Surgery, Chief of Robotics, Minimally Invasive Surgery, and Spinal Deformity Correction explains, “Degenerative disc disease is not necessarily a disease but rather a term used to describe the natural ageing process of the spine. It involves the breakdown of spinal discs, which can lead to pain and discomfort if not managed properly.”

What Exercises Should You Avoid with Degenerative Disc Disease?

Exercise is essential for maintaining overall health, but certain activities can put excessive strain on your spine and worsen degenerative disc disease. Here are some exercises and activities to avoid:

High-Impact Activities: Exercises like jumping jacks, plyometrics, and running can place excessive stress on your spinal discs. Opt for low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling to reduce strain on your spine.
Heavy Weightlifting: Lifting heavy weights, especially with improper form, can exacerbate degenerative disc disease. Deadlifts and other heavy-lifting exercises should be avoided. Instead, focus on lower weights with higher repetitions under the guidance of a professional.
Excessive Twisting: Activities involving significant spinal twisting, like Russian twists or certain sports, can strain your discs. Consider modifying your movements or seeking professional advice to ensure safer exercise practices.

What Lifestyle Choices Should You Avoid?

Certain lifestyle choices can negatively impact your condition and overall spinal health. Here’s what to avoid:

Prolonged Sitting: Sitting for long periods can increase lower back pain and contribute to degenerative disc disease. Make it a habit to get up and move around every 30 minutes to prevent stiffness and strain.
Ignoring Pain: While some level of discomfort is normal, persistent pain that lasts more than a few weeks should not be ignored. Dr Puneet Girdhar emphasises, “If you’re experiencing ongoing pain, it’s essential to consult a spine specialist to explore your treatment options and prevent further complications.”

What Foods Should You Avoid with Degenerative Disc Disease?

Diet plays a crucial role in managing degenerative disc disease symptoms. Certain foods can exacerbate inflammation and contribute to weight gain, which can worsen your condition. Here are some foods and drinks to avoid:

Sugary Beverages: Drinks high in sugar, such as sodas and energy drinks, can spike blood sugar levels, triggering inflammatory responses that may aggravate degenerative disc disease pain.
White Bread and Pastries: These processed foods can contribute to inflammation and weight gain, adding stress to your spinal discs.
High Meat Consumption: Excessive intake of red and processed meats can lead to higher levels of C-reactive protein, an inflammatory marker linked to chronic back pain.
Fried Foods: High in saturated and trans fats, fried foods can increase inflammation, exacerbating DDD symptoms.
Caffeine and Alcohol: Both can lead to dehydration, which negatively affects the hydration of spinal discs, potentially worsening the condition.

What Habits Can Support a Healthy Spine?

Incorporating healthy habits into your daily routine can support your spinal health and alleviate degenerative disc disease symptoms. Here’s how you can promote a healthier spine:

Stay Active: Aim for 30 minutes of low-impact exercise most days of the week. Activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can enhance your spine’s health without causing excessive strain.
Strengthen Your Core: Core muscles support your spine and improve posture. To strengthen your core, incorporate exercises like planks and bridges into your routine.
Practise Good Posture: Maintain a neutral spine position by standing tall with your shoulders, back and core engaged. Avoid slouching or hunching over, especially when sitting for extended periods.
Stretch Regularly: Regular stretching helps maintain flexibility and range of motion, reducing stiffness and preventing injury.

Sarah, one of Dr Puneet Girdhar’s patients, shared her journey, “I struggled with degenerative disc disease for years. After consulting with Dr. Girdhar and following his advice to avoid high-impact activities and adopt a healthier lifestyle, my pain has significantly reduced. Learning about the things to avoid with degenerative disc disease has been life-changing.”

Akshay, another satisfied patient of Dr Puneet, mentioned, “Understanding how I cured my degenerative disc disease was a game-changer for me. As a patient of Dr. Puneet Girdhar, his guidance on exercises and diet helped me manage my symptoms better and improve my overall quality of life. Knowing the things to avoid with degenerative disc disease made all the difference.”

What is the Cost of Treating Degenerative Disc Disease in India?

On average, the cost of managing degenerative disc disease may range from INR 1,50,000 to INR 4,00,000 (approximately USD 1,800 to USD 5,000). This estimate can fluctuate based on several key factors:

Hospital Choice: High-end hospitals with state-of-the-art facilities often charge more.
Location: Costs may be higher in major metropolitan areas compared to smaller towns.
Surgeon’s Expertise: Fees may vary depending on the surgeon’s experience and reputation.
Treatment Complexity: The type and complexity of the procedure can impact the overall cost.
Complications: Additional care required for any complications can increase expenses.
Hospital Stay Duration: Extended hospital stays can further raise the total cost.

It’s advisable to consult directly with hospitals or healthcare providers to obtain an accurate estimate and explore payment options.

Conclusion

Living with degenerative disc disease doesn’t mean you have to suffer from constant pain or limitations. By understanding what to avoid and making informed lifestyle choices, you can effectively manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Remember, a balanced approach that includes a healthy diet, appropriate exercise, and good habits can make a significant difference.

Incorporating these strategies into your daily life can help you maintain a healthy spine and reduce the impact of degenerative disc disease. Embrace a proactive approach, listen to your body, and seek professional guidance to ensure a healthier and more comfortable future for your spine.