Degenerative disc disease is a condition, where a spinal disc wears down and the vertebrae can start to rub against each other1. This can cause chronic back pain and other conditions, such as scoliosis, herniated disc, and spinal stenosis.

• Everyone's spinal discs degenerate over time, this is a normal part of aging. However, 5% can lead to chronic back pain which can be debilitating2. 

• Most commonly seen in the over 40's age group1. 

The most common causes for this are drying out and tear/cracks.

• Dry out - Discs mostly contain water. When water is lost, discs get thinner and do not provide as much shock absorption.

• Tear/Crack - minor injuries can lead to small cracks in the spinal discs, these are often near nerves.