Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is a common yet often misunderstood spinal condition that can cause chronic pain and mobility issues. While the name suggests a progressive "disease," DDD is actually a natural part of aging, though it can be accelerated by injury, repetitive stress, and lifestyle factors. At Triangle Spinal Decompression in Cary, NC, Dr. Parker Neill and Dr. Abigail Swank specialize in advanced, non-surgical treatments designed to relieve pain and restore function without invasive procedures.
What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?
The human spine contains 23 intervertebral discs, which act as cushions between vertebrae, allowing flexibility and absorbing shock. These discs make up about 25–34% of the spine’s total length. Unlike other tissues in the body, spinal discs lack a direct blood supply, meaning they rely on osmosis and joint movement to receive essential nutrients.
Over time, discs naturally wear down, losing hydration and elasticity. In some individuals, this degeneration leads to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Although aging is a primary factor, other contributors include poor posture, repetitive strain, spinal injuries, and lack of movement. DDD progresses through four distinct stages, each with increasing severity.
The Four Stages of Degenerative Disc Disease
Stage 1: Early Changes (Often Painless)
Many people don’t notice the first signs of DDD because there is usually no pain. However, subtle changes begin, such as a loss of spinal curvature and minor shifts in vertebral alignment. While these early changes may seem insignificant, they set the stage for more severe degeneration if left unaddressed.
Stage 2: Disc Thinning & Bone Spurs Appear
At this stage, discs begin losing height, leading to increased pressure on the spine. This often results in:
Noticeable pain and discomfort
Formation of bone spurs (osteophytes)
Reduced spinal flexibility
Possible narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis)
Stage 3: Increased Pain & Nerve Involvement
In the third stage, spinal alignment becomes visibly altered, leading to:
More severe pain and stiffness
Increased nerve pressure and possible nerve damage
Scar tissue formation around affected discs
Further thinning of intervertebral discs
Stage 4: Severe Degeneration & Limited Mobility
The final stage is the most severe and often considered irreversible. By this point, discs are either extremely thin or completely worn away, causing:
Chronic, debilitating pain
Severe loss of spinal mobility
Pronounced nerve compression
Significant spinal deformities
At this stage, many patients are told that spinal fusion surgery is their only option. However, before considering surgery, it’s important to explore non-invasive treatments like spinal decompression therapy.
Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression: A Breakthrough Alternative
Many traditional treatments for DDD focus on pain management rather than addressing the root cause. However, non-surgical spinal decompression offers a drug-free, surgery-free approach that targets disc health directly.
At Triangle Spinal Decompression in Cary, NC, we utilize advanced spinal decompression therapy to:✔ Gently stretch the spine to relieve pressure on discs and nerves✔ Increase blood flow and nutrient absorption to promote natural healing✔ Reduce pain and inflammation without medication✔ Improve mobility and spinal function
Why Choose Triangle Spinal Decompression?
Dr. Parker Neill and Dr. Abigail Swank have helped countless patients in Cary, Raleigh, and the surrounding areas find relief from chronic back pain caused by degenerative disc disease. Our state-of-the-art clinic specializes in cutting-edge spinal decompression techniques that are non-invasive, safe, and highly effective.
If you’ve been told that spinal fusion is your only option, you owe it to yourself to explore non-surgical spinal decompression first. Surgery is permanent—but spinal decompression gives your body a chance to heal naturally.
Start Your Path to Pain Relief Today
Don’t wait until your condition worsens. Take control of your spinal health now with Triangle Spinal Decompression in Cary, NC. Call 919-469-8897 to schedule a consultation or visit our office at 3750 NW Cary Pkwy, Ste 105.
📍 Contact us online at triangledecompression.com/contact to learn more about how non-surgical spinal decompression can help you regain mobility and live pain-free.
Comments