Degenerative Disc Disease in Young Adults and Teens: Prevention and Treatment

January 16, 2025

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is often associated with ageing, but a growing number of young adults and teens are being diagnosed with this condition. DDD occurs when the discs between the vertebrae in the spine begin to break down, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. The increasing prevalence among younger people highlights the importance of understanding its causes, prevention, and treatment.

 

 

What Causes Degenerative Disc Disease in Young People?

While age-related wear and tear is a common cause of DDD, in younger individuals, other factors may contribute:

  • Poor Posture: Prolonged sitting, particularly when slouching or leaning forward, puts undue pressure on the spine.
  • Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of regular exercise weakens core muscles, reducing spinal support.
  • Repetitive Strain: Overuse from sports, heavy lifting, or certain physical jobs can accelerate disc wear.
  • Obesity: Excess weight places extra strain on spinal discs.
  • Injuries: Trauma or micro-injuries from accidents or sports may lead to early disc degeneration.
  • Genetics: A family history of spinal conditions can increase susceptibility.

How to Prevent Degenerative Disc Disease

  1. Maintain Good Posture
    Proper alignment of the spine during sitting, standing, and sleeping is crucial. Use ergonomic chairs and support your lower back to reduce strain.
  2. Stay Active
    Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, to strengthen the core muscles that support the spine.
  3. Avoid Excessive Screen Time
    Prolonged screen use often leads to poor posture (e.g., “text neck”). Take regular breaks and ensure devices are at eye level.
  4. Lift Properly
    Use your legs, not your back, when lifting heavy objects. Avoid twisting motions while carrying loads.
  5. Maintain a Healthy Weight
    A balanced diet and regular exercise can help prevent excess weight, reducing stress on spinal discs.
  6. Avoid Smoking
    Smoking reduces blood flow to spinal discs, accelerating degeneration.

Treatment Options for Degenerative Disc Disease

If symptoms of DDD develop, several treatments can help manage the condition:

1. Non-Surgical Treatments

  • Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the core and improve flexibility.
  • Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, or muscle relaxants.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Improving posture and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms.
  • Epidural Injections: Steroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain.

2. Minimally Invasive Procedures

  • Radiofrequency Ablation: Using heat to disrupt nerve signals and reduce pain.
  • Endoscopic Discectomy: Removing damaged portions of the disc through small incisions.

3. Surgical Treatments

Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments fail:

  • Spinal Fusion: Fusing vertebrae to stabilise the spine.
  • Artificial Disc Replacement: Replacing a damaged disc with a synthetic one to preserve mobility.

When to See a Doctor

Persistent back pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the legs may indicate advanced DDD or other serious spinal issues. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further complications.

Conclusion

While degenerative disc disease is becoming more common among young adults and teens, it is largely preventable through lifestyle changes such as maintaining good posture, staying active, and avoiding excess strain on the spine. If you experience symptoms, a range of non-surgical and surgical treatments are available to alleviate pain and restore mobility.

Consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice and care.