Degenerative disc disease

Physical Therapy for Degenerative Disc Disease

Have you ever woken up with a stiff, aching back, thinking it was just age or fatigue catching up to you? Then, after a quick medical exam, you learn the true cause behind your discomfort—degenerative disc disease (DDD).

Degenerative disc disease happens when the cushions between your back bones start to wear, sometimes leading to persistent aches, stiffness, and reduced movement. These gel-like cushions, intervertebral discs, can lose moisture, become thinner, or develop small tears over time, which often results in pain in the back or neck. Although frequently associated with getting older, repetitive strain or past injuries can make disc wear worse. As the discs deteriorate, they may not protect the spine as effectively, sometimes pressing on nearby nerves and causing pain, stiffness, or numbness. Despite the term “disease,” DDD isn’t a classic illness in itself, though its symptoms can still be serious. Making healthy lifestyle choices, exploring physical therapy, and taking additional preventive steps can ease pain, slow disc damage, and support better spinal health overall.

Does Physical Therapy Treat DDD?

Physical therapy helps those with degenerative disc disease by strengthening core and back muscles to reduce spinal strain, improving posture and flexibility, and teaching proper body mechanics to minimize disc stress. Gentle physical therapies such as manual therapy can alleviate pain, while education on safe exercises and lifestyle modifications can provide lasting relief. This comprehensive approach stabilizes the spine and leads to long-term pain relief.

Physical therapists use a multitude of strategies to help treat patients suffering from degenerative disc disease. Some of these strategies may include the following:

  • Core and back strengthening exercises
  • Stretching and flexibility exercises
  • Posture and movement training aimed at correcting body mechanics
  • Manual Therapy
  • Traction and Decompression
  • Heat, cold, or electrical stimulation

Physical Therapist Evaluation of Degenerative Disc Disease

A physical therapist typically looks for signs of degenerative disc disease by assessing a patient’s pain patterns, posture, range of motion/flexibility, and strength. During evaluation, the therapist may notice increased pain when the spine is stressed (for example, bending or twisting) and reduced pain when it’s supported or at rest. They also check for muscle imbalances, nerve-related symptoms such as tingling or weakness, and other indicators that the spinal discs may be compromised. However, an official diagnosis of degenerative disc disease usually comes from a physician—often a primary care doctor, orthopedist, or spine specialist—who reviews imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs and correlates the findings with the patient’s symptoms.

Preventing DDD

Prevention of DDD is not always possible, but doing the following can help reduce the chance of suffering from the disease: maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the spine; avoid smoking to improve or maintain healthy circulation; engage in low-impact exercises regularly, such as swimming and walking; practice good body mechanics and posture, especially when lifting or seated; stay hydrated; and ensure your workspace is set up to be ergonomically friendly. Consulting a healthcare provider or physical therapist for personalized exercises can address individual needs and lower the risk of disc issues. By combining these strategies, individuals may delay or minimize degenerative disc disease and support long-term spinal health.

When to see a Physical Therapist for Degenerative Disc Disease

Don’t live in constant pain. If you suspect you may have degenerative disc disease or other back-related pain, a physical therapist is the best place to start.  At Evolution Physical Therapy, we have locations in California, Colorado, Connecticut, and Long Island, with specialist PT providers that offer a range of physical therapy services and help to provide you with the treatment, education, and additional support you need to live a life with less pain and improved mobility. Reach out to us today, by calling us to set up an appointment at a location near you, or filling out our Request an Appointment form.