Degenerative disc disease: causes, symptoms and treatment
A clinically reviewed guide to degenerative disc disease — what the diagnosis really means and how it is managed.
Medically reviewed by D.C Matt · Lead Director
Last reviewed 1 July 2026
- Disc changes are a normal part of ageing and are often painless.
- The name is misleading — it is not a progressive disease in most people.
- Exercise and staying active are central to management.
What is degenerative disc disease?
Degenerative disc disease is the gradual, age-related change in the spinal discs — they lose height and hydration over time.
These changes are extremely common and often show up on scans of people with no pain at all. When symptoms do occur, they are usually manageable and not a sign of a spine that is 'wearing out' quickly.
What are the symptoms of degenerative disc disease?
When symptomatic, it usually causes low-grade back or neck ache and stiffness that varies with activity and position.
- Aching in the lower back or neck
- Stiffness, often worse after inactivity
- Pain that flares with certain positions or loads
- Occasional radiating symptoms if a nerve is involved
How is degenerative disc disease treated?
It is managed with exercise, staying active, manual therapy and reassurance, focusing on function rather than the scan findings.
Building strength and movement tolerance is central. Understanding that disc changes are common and not alarming is an important part of recovery.
The Postura approach
At Postura Wellness, care for degenerative disc disease is built around OrthoRestore™ — our signature method that combines chiropractic and physiotherapy into one coordinated plan. Depending on your assessment, it can bring together chiropractic adjustments, dry needling, muscle manipulation, Active Release Technique, and targeted exercises, supported where helpful by technology such as shockwave therapy and bioelectric therapy. The aim is to relieve symptoms while addressing the underlying causes, with a plan tailored to you.
When to seek urgent care
Get emergency medical attention for loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin or inner thighs, or sudden severe weakness in a leg. These can signal cauda equina syndrome, a rare but serious condition.
Sciatica FAQs
Is degenerative disc disease serious?
For most people, no. It reflects normal age-related change and is often painless. Symptoms, when present, are usually manageable.
Does degenerative disc disease get worse over time?
Disc changes are part of ageing, but symptoms do not necessarily worsen — many people improve with exercise and activity.
Should I avoid exercise with disc degeneration?
No. Guided exercise is one of the most effective approaches. Prolonged rest tends to make stiffness and deconditioning worse.
Can physiotherapy or chiropractic help?
Yes. Manual therapy and a progressive exercise programme help most people manage symptoms and improve function.
This guide is informed by patient information from accredited medical institutions:
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Degenerative disc disease
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