A good metaphor for a degenerative disc is a car tyre! Not the first thing that springs to mind!
What is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Our 23 intervertebral discs are roughly circular with a nucleus that is surrounded by rings of tough fibrocartilage called annulus fibrosis.
An intervertebral disc is analogous to a car tyre that looses air and wears over time.
When we are young our spinal discs are inflated just like new thick tyres. They act as perfect shock absorbers in the background as we go about our day to day tasks.
As time moves forward our 23 discs (just like car tyres loose air) naturally loose their ability to retain fluid. They slowly shrink, flatten out, become more brittle and less able to absorb stress.
Constant stress from hard work, materials handling, lifting, repetitive tasks and bad posture erodes the tough outer fibrocartilage of the disc causing tiny micro-tears. The discs begin to bulge as they loose integrity, this can often be asymptomatic, but sometimes delicate nerves can be compressed.
In response to the discs shrinking, and the increased stress, bony spurs can develop on the vertebra and joints in the spine. This causes more pain and stiffness.
Living with degenerative disc disease can be frightening. Persistent lower back pain, sciatica, numbness, tingling or weakness in your legs can make everyday activities feel impossible. Many people worry that disc degeneration automatically means they will eventually need surgery.
The good news is that this is rarely the case.
Why Do Spinal Discs Degenerate?
Disc degeneration usually develops through a combination of ageing, inherited traits and other contributing factors. It is rarely explained by one cause. medlineplus.gov
| Factor | How it may contribute |
|---|---|
| 🕰️ Natural ageing | Disc tissues gradually change, retaining less water and sometimes losing height and flexibility. |
| 🧬 Genetics | Inherited differences influence disc structure, strength and susceptibility to degeneration. |
| 🚬 Smoking | Smoking is associated with faster disc degeneration and may interfere with tissue nutrition and maintenance. |
| ⚖️ Obesity | Associated with disc degeneration through a combination of mechanical loading and metabolic factors. |
| 🩺 Diabetes | Associated with changes in disc health, potentially involving tissue metabolism and nutrient supply. |
| 💥 Previous injury | Significant injury to a disc or neighbouring structures may contribute to later degenerative changes. |
| 🔄 Repeated demanding loads | Certain occupational exposures may contribute, although their influence varies between individuals. |
These factors are supported by clinical and genetics resources; an association does not mean someone will inevitably develop painful disc problems. medlineplus.gov
💧 Disc desiccation means reduced water content within the disc—not simply that you have not drunk enough water. Degenerative changes are common and do not always cause pain. AA
Common Symptoms of Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease
Symptoms vary, and some people have degenerative disc changes without pain. These symptoms can also have other causes.
| Symptom | What you may notice |
|---|---|
| 🔴 Lower back pain | Persistent aching or recurring flare-ups, sometimes aggravated by sitting, bending or lifting. |
| 🌅 Stiffness | Reduced flexibility on waking or after remaining in one position. |
| 🪑 Pain when sitting | Prolonged sitting may aggravate discomfort. Changing position or gentle walking may feel easier. |
| 🚶 Difficulty straightening up | Temporary stiffness or discomfort when standing after sitting. |
| 💪 Muscle spasm | Tightness or protective muscle guarding around the lower back. |
| 🔄 Reduced mobility | Difficulty bending, gardening, lifting or completing everyday activities. |
| ⚡ Sciatica | If a nearby spinal nerve root is irritated or compressed, sharp, burning or electric pain may travel through the buttock and leg towards the foot. |
| 🦶 Tingling or numbness | Pins and needles or altered sensation in the leg or foot when nerves are involved. |
| ⚠️ Leg or foot weakness | Difficulty lifting the foot, climbing stairs or pushing off. New or worsening weakness needs urgent medical assessment. |
Back pain is the main symptom of painful disc degeneration; sciatica, numbness and weakness suggest associated nerve involvement. HSS
Can Degenerative Disc Disease Cause Sciatica?
Absolutely.
This is one of the commonest reasons patients attend our clinic.
As discs lose height several things happen:
- Disc bulging
- Reduced foraminal space
- Increased facet joint loading
- Thickening of spinal ligaments
- Narrowing around nerve roots
All these changes can compress or irritate the sciatic nerve.
The result is pain travelling into the leg rather than simply back pain.
Is Degenerative Disc Disease Serious?
For most people, no.
Although painful, it is usually manageable without surgery.
However, symptoms should always be assessed properly because similar symptoms can occur with:
- Herniated discs
- Spinal stenosis
- Spondylolisthesis
- Fractures
- Infections
A thorough examination helps identify the true cause.
How Is Degenerative Disc Disease Diagnosed?
At Buxton & Bakewell Osteopathy Clinic we perform a comprehensive spinal assessment.
This includes:
Detailed History
Understanding:
- When symptoms started
- What makes pain worse
- Previous injuries
- Night pain
- Numbness
- Weakness
Physical Examination
We assess:
- Posture
- Walking pattern
- Spinal movement
- Muscle strength
- Reflexes
- Sensation
- Nerve tension tests
MRI Referral
Where appropriate we may recommend MRI scanning.
Our MRI referral service provides detailed images showing:
- Degenerative discs
- Disc bulges
- Herniated discs
- Nerve compression
- Spinal stenosis
- Arthritic changes
MRI helps ensure treatment is accurately targeted.
Can Degenerative Discs Heal?
Age-related changes cannot be completely reversed.
However, pain often improves significantly.
Many patients mistakenly believe the disc itself is the source of pain.
In reality pain often comes from:
- Inflamed joints
- Irritated nerves
- Muscle spasm
- Poor movement patterns
- Reduced spinal stability
Treating these factors frequently produces excellent improvements.
The Best Non-Surgical Treatments
Successful treatment usually combines several approaches.
Expert Osteopathy
Hands-on osteopathic treatment aims to restore movement throughout the spine.
Treatment may include:
- Gentle mobilisation
- Soft tissue techniques
- Joint articulation
- Muscle stretching
- Postural correction
Improving spinal movement often reduces stress placed on damaged discs.
IDD Therapy Spinal Decompression
One of the treatments that makes our clinic different is IDD Therapy.
IDD Therapy is an advanced computer-controlled spinal decompression treatment designed specifically for:
- Degenerative disc disease
- Disc bulges
- Herniated discs
- Sciatica
- Trapped nerves
- Spinal stenosis
Unlike simple traction, IDD Therapy precisely targets the affected spinal level.
The treatment gently distracts the spine while allowing surrounding muscles to relax.
This may help:
- Reduce pressure inside the disc
- Improve nutrient exchange
- Reduce nerve irritation
- Increase disc hydration
- Improve spinal mobility
- Reduce muscle guarding
Many patients report gradual improvements over a structured treatment programme.
Rehabilitation Exercises
Exercise is essential.
Our rehabilitation programmes are individually tailored.
They commonly include:
Core strengthening
Hip mobility
Glute strengthening
Walking programmes
Flexibility exercises
Postural training
Movement education
Lifestyle Advice
Small daily changes often produce significant long-term benefits.
We advise patients regarding:
- Sitting posture
- Lifting techniques
- Home working
- Mattress advice
- Walking
- Weight management
- Exercise progression
Will I Need Surgery?
Fortunately, most people do not.
Surgery is usually reserved for:
- Severe weakness
- Progressive nerve damage
- Cauda Equina Syndrome
- Pain that has failed comprehensive conservative care
Even patients who have been advised surgery may benefit from a specialist assessment first.
Can Exercise Make Disc Degeneration Worse?
This is one of the biggest myths.
Appropriate exercise is one of the best treatments available.
The key is choosing the right exercises.
Complete rest often makes symptoms worse.
Movement helps:
- Improve circulation
- Strengthen muscles
- Support joints
- Improve confidence
- Reduce stiffness
Can You Prevent Degenerative Disc Disease?
Ageing cannot be prevented.
However, progression may be slowed through:
- Regular exercise
- Maintaining healthy weight
- Stopping smoking
- Good posture
- Core strengthening
- Avoiding prolonged sitting
- Remaining active
Why Choose Buxton & Bakewell Osteopathy Clinic?
Patients travel to us from across:
- Buxton
- Bakewell
- Matlock
- Chapel-en-le-Frith
- Whaley Bridge
- Glossop
- Ashbourne
- Macclesfield
- Stockport
- Derbyshire
- Staffordshire
- Cheshire
- The Peak District
because of our specialist approach to complex spinal pain.
We don’t simply treat symptoms.
We identify why your pain developed.
Every patient receives a comprehensive assessment, allowing us to create an individual treatment plan tailored to their diagnosis, lifestyle and goals. Our clinic combines expert osteopathic care with advanced technologies, including IDD Therapy spinal decompression, to offer treatment options that are not widely available in the region. We place a strong emphasis on education and rehabilitation so you understand your condition and gain the confidence to manage it effectively.
Many of our patients come to us after months—or even years—of unsuccessful treatment elsewhere. They often tell us they appreciate our thorough assessments, clear explanations and evidence-informed approach. Our aim is not only to relieve pain but to help you regain mobility, return to work, enjoy hobbies and improve your long-term quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can degenerative disc disease cause permanent nerve damage?
Most cases do not. However, prolonged or severe nerve compression can sometimes lead to lasting weakness or altered sensation. Early assessment improves the chances of successful treatment.
Is walking good for degenerative disc disease?
Yes. Walking is one of the safest and most effective forms of exercise for many people with degenerative disc disease. It encourages circulation, reduces stiffness and supports spinal health without placing excessive strain on the discs.
Is degenerative disc disease a normal part of ageing?
Yes. Disc degeneration is very common as we get older, and many people have changes visible on MRI without experiencing any pain. Treatment focuses on the symptoms and how the condition affects your daily life rather than the scan alone.
Can IDD Therapy help degenerative disc disease?
IDD Therapy may be suitable for people with disc degeneration, disc bulges, trapped nerves and sciatica. Following a full assessment, we will advise whether it is an appropriate treatment option for your specific diagnosis.
When should I seek urgent medical advice?
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop:
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Numbness around the saddle area
- Rapidly worsening leg weakness
- Severe pain following significant trauma
- Unexplained fever, weight loss or night pain associated with back pain
These symptoms require urgent assessment.
Book a Specialist Assessment
If persistent lower back pain, sciatica or a trapped nerve is affecting your quality of life, don’t wait for it to become worse.
At Buxton & Bakewell Osteopathy Clinic, we provide expert assessment and personalised treatment for degenerative disc disease using a combination of advanced osteopathy, rehabilitation and IDD Therapy.
Whether you live in Buxton, Bakewell, Matlock, Glossop, Chapel-en-le-Frith, Macclesfield, Stockport or anywhere in the Peak District, our experienced team is here to help you understand your condition, relieve your pain and get you back to doing the things you enjoy.
Arrange your assessment today and discover why so many patients across Derbyshire and the Peak District trust us for specialist non-surgical spinal care.
At Buxton & Bakewell Osteopathy Clinic, we specialise in diagnosing and treating degenerative disc disease using evidence-informed, non-surgical treatments designed to reduce pain, improve movement and help you return to the activities you enjoy.
Our clinic has become recognised throughout Buxton, Bakewell, the Peak District and Derbyshire for treating complex spinal conditions including:
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Sciatica
- Trapped Nerves
- Disc Bulges
- Herniated Discs
- Spinal Stenosis
- Chronic Lower Back Pain
As one of the few clinics in the region offering IDD Therapy, alongside expert osteopathy and rehabilitation, we regularly help people who have been told that “nothing more can be done.”
