When people hear the words degenerative discs and neck many become concerned. But just how high should the level of concern be? The answer to this really is dependent upon three things…pain, motion, and function.

Let start at the beginning with just what is/are degenerative discs?

This term is but a phrase for age-related changes. If a person has lived a few years, eventually they will have what is termed degenerative discs. Over time, our joints and discs change. Think of these changes like gray hair or “wrinkles on the inside”. However, the phrase has come to be synonymous with arthritis. Not only that, but too often people are told nothing can be done so just live with it. This whole concept is false on many levels.

Yes, age-related changes will and do happen, BUT they do not have to negatively impact a person’s life. A few lines ago I mentioned pain, motion, and function…this is more IMPORTANT than anything else.

If a person has minimal to no pain, (near full) motion, and normal function, what worry is there? If a person has an issue with 1 of these 3, not to worry. Even if 2 or all 3 of these key factors become issues, it is not worrisome. What it does mean is working to address any of the problem areas (sooner than later).

The good news is that each of these factors can be addressed rather successfully. Did you know, data indicates that a large percent of people older than 40 have these “changes” and have no symptoms whatsoever. This means, that age-related changes (degenerative discs) are not linked to pain nor do they have to become limiting.

So the bottom line is there is nothing to worry about degenerative discs, but if a person has some issue with pain, motion, or function it is important to address them.

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