Disc Degeneration
About Discs
There are 23 discs in the spine. Each disc separates the vertebral bodies in the spine. The space between each of the spinal bones allows a nerve to travel from the right and left side of the spine. Maintaining the disc’s original height allows the nerve to function at its proper capacity.
Disc Degeneration Progress
Disc degeneration can be grouped into three categories:
Mild – Height Loss between 0%-25%
- Usually found in L4/L5, L5/S1, C5/C6 or C6/C7
- Takes normally 15+ years for degeneration to occur
- Can be asymptomatic
Moderate – Height Loss between 26%-50%
- Usually found in L4/L5, L5/S1, C5/C6 or C6/C7
- Takes normally 20+ years for degeneration to occur
- Patient usually has on again and off again pain for months to years
Severe – Height Loss between 51% and above
- Usually found in older adults
- Usually found in L4/L5, L5/S1, C5/C6 or C6/C7
- Takes normally 25+ years for degeneration to occur
- Patient usually has on again and off again pain for months to years
Herniations, Bulges and More
Herniated Discs
A disc herniates when a portion of the inner disc(nucleus pulposa) breaks through the outer cartilage. Most individuals may not realize they have herniated disc until the onset of pain. Unless a patient had a trauma, herniated discs occur because of overuse and not maintaining a spine for years.
Bulging Discs
A disc bulges when a portion of the entire disc presses outwards. Most often this will not cause pain, however the disc is weakened and left untreated, it will worsen over time.
If you have already been diagnosed with a herniated, bulging or degenerative disc, do not wait. The disc continues to breakdown without specialized Chiropractic care. Florida Spine and Wellness Institute are leaders in identifying and preventing further damage to the discs with Chiropractic treatment and without the use of drugs or surgery.